Emma WhiteIf you’ve ever shopped for a car, you know it’s not just about the engine—it’s about finding the one. The dealership vibe, the salesperson’s attitude, the “will they throw in free floor mats” mystery—it all matters!
Looking for mine, I’ve been on a wild ride through Ottawa’s car dealerships (yes, I test-drove so many cars I started dreaming about them), and I got to round up those that amazed me.
Now that you’re ready to find your next ride and maybe want to avoid the “museum donation suggestion”, buckle up, because here are the best car dealerships in Ottawa that’ll steer you in the right direction!
How much does a brand-new car cost in Ottawa?
In Ottawa, the average cost of a brand-new car typically ranges from $20,000 to over $67,000, depending on the model, features, and brand.
More affordable options, such as compact sedans, start at around $20,798, while higher-end models, including SUVs and EVs, can exceed $60,000.
1. Approval Genie
Address: 1325 Richmond Road Ottawa, ON K2B 6R7
Phone: 1 855 868 3155
Business Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Approval Genie has positioned itself as a market leader and disruptor in the auto finance industry since 2012, specializing in car dealership services focused on bad credit car financing. With the mantra “Every loan is magical,” the company emphasizes second chances and financial rebuilding through customized auto loan solutions.
What sets Approval Genie apart is its mission to help hard-working Canadians get approved for a car loan regardless of their credit history. Whether clients have bad credit or no credit at all, the dealership focuses on creating opportunities to rebuild and re-establish credit through asset-backed lending.
Approval Genie operates seven used car dealership locations across Ontario and Quebec, supported by over 100 knowledgeable advisors. Customers can choose from thousands of safe and reliable vehicles, ensuring that financing solutions are paired with vehicles that fit their lifestyle and budget.
The company works with hundreds of lending partners to secure competitive interest rates and affordable payment structures. Rather than pushing unsuitable financing options, their team challenges clients to understand their financial reality and build a stronger credit foundation for long-term goals such as home ownership.
Education is a central part of their dealership model, with advisors guiding customers toward a healthier understanding of credit and responsible borrowing. By positioning auto loans as a strategic tool for credit improvement, Approval Genie aims to create lasting financial impact beyond the vehicle purchase.
Approval Genie also prides itself on delivering strong pre- and post-service support, contributing to thousands of five-star reviews online. With honesty, integrity, and trust at the forefront, the dealership has become one of the highest-rated auto financing companies in Canada, known for speed, efficiency, and personalized service.
Andy was honestly amazing. He provided excellent service
“Andy was honestly amazing. He provided excellent service, kept me posted throughout the whole process, and explained everything in a way that actually made sense. He made the entire experience feel easy and comfortable, with no pressure at all. I really appreciated how patient and transparent he was. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience highly recommend Andy!”
Ikram Abdi, Google Review
Customer service is done with care and professionalism
“I had an excellent experience with Approval Genie, especially with the sales representative Angie. From the very first contact, she was extremely attentive, patient, and transparent throughout the entire process. She helped clarify all my questions and made the car-buying experience much smoother and stress-free. You can truly tell when customer service is done with care and professionalism. Highly recommend! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️”
Camila Marques Costa de Oliveira, Google Review
2. Bank Street Hyundai
Address: 2788 Bank St.
Phone: +1 613 739 7530
Business Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 9 AM to 8 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 9 AM to 6 PM
Bank Street Hyundai is a go-to spot in Ottawa if you’re in the market for a Hyundai. From sales of new and used cars to a variety of parts, accessories, and excellent services, they have everything you might need.
Special mention to their seamless appointment booking process and a solid range of financing options, which they thoroughly laid out to me. They even offer plenty of specials and coupons, which can save you quite a bit once you finalize your purchase.
However, I did notice (and some clients echoed this) that their financing approvals can take longer than quoted. Another downside is their punctuality—some staff members tend to fall behind on sales appointments.
On a brighter note, you’ll get to love their maintenance and repair service. They’ve got you covered with conveniences like an Uber ride if you need to leave your car for servicing.
Add to this their request forms for car parts or accessories to make sure everything’s ready when you need it.
Informative and patient guidance
“Great experience with Boudy. I was a bit intimidated at first by the dash and all the features but Boudy took so much time to explain and demo all the bells and whistles to me and my husband. Warm, helpful and fun – he anticipates needs and is very patient with questions. Postive vibe on site with all the staff. Fantastic vehicle and fantastic experience!”
Melanie Elliott, Google Review
Smooth process with great team energy
“The dealership had a great vibe. Adam and Ernesto were fantastic. The whole experience was nice and smooth. If you’re looking for a new Hyundai in Ottawa I would definitely recommend shopping here.”
James Laing, Google Review
3. Bel-Air Toyota
Address: 450 McArthur Ave. #440
Phone: +1 613 287 1379
Business Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 9 AM to 8 PM
- Friday – 9 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 5 PM
When I checked out Bel-Air Toyota, I immediately noticed how convenient and customer-focused their services are. They offer both new and used vehicles, and their website makes it simple to browse their inventory, including Toyota’s latest models.
They even have options for hybrid and electric vehicles, which impressed me. A unique perk I found is that they operate across three locations in Ottawa, making it easy to visit whichever is closest to you.
Another commendable thing was the staff’s no-pressure approach. I appreciated how they patiently walked me through models that fit my budget, even suggesting financing or trade-in options to make things easier.
It was clear that their team prioritizes creating a pleasant buying experience, which was echoed by clients I spoke to. Many mentioned their satisfaction with the fast delivery of their new cars, thorough after-service calls, and knowledgeable staff.
On the downside, I did hear feedback about test drive delays, though I didn’t experience this myself. It seems that some vehicles aren’t always prepped on time, even for scheduled appointments.
Exceptional service from start to finish
“I had a wonderful experience at bel-air Toyota. Scott was very informative and helped me get my dream vehicle quickly. He gave excellent service from when I arrived to leaving with my new purchase. A thank you to Cynthia from financing for her assistance too. I will be recommending this dealership in the future.”
Abigail Mulvihill, Google Review
Attentive and thoughtful assistance
“Bought a 2015 Mazda 6 from Ali Assi, and he was great. Was quick to help me with anything and everything I needed, even a week after the sale. He even put a bow on it for me when I came to pick it up 😆Thanks Ali! …”
Lily Thompson, Google Review
4. Surgenor Ottawa
Address: 939 St. Laurent Blvd.
Phone: +1 613 741 0741
Business Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 7 AM to 7 PM
- Friday – 7 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Surgernor’s longevity of over 55 years in the business shows in their well-rounded services and expertise. Here, they offer both new and pre-owned vehicles across a variety of makes and models.
I appreciated the flexible options they provide, from financing to short-term leasing. This makes it easier for people with different needs and budgets to get behind the wheel of a reliable car.
Their team was also accommodating and provided clear explanations for each option, which made the process smoother.
What impressed me most was their strong focus on after-sales care. With certified factory-trained technicians and access to OEM parts, you can count on them for maintenance or repairs.
I also love how they make the experience even more convenient with shuttle services and loaner vehicles for clients. A bonus is their on-site CarStar Collision Centre, which makes collision repair stress-free (though I hope you’ll never need it!).
My only issue lies with the long wait times for vehicle deliveries and repairs, which some of their clients also pointed out.
Great experience with fair pricing
“I bought a 2025 Colorado Trailboss from Matt, and the team there a couple of weeks ago. It was a good experience all around, and they got me into the truck I wanted at a price I was happy to pay. Its worth your time to check them out of you’re shopping for a vehicle.”
Kristian Gosbee, Google Review
Knowledgeable and honest team
“Just bought a new Silverado from dealership. Very positive experience. No pressure and very helpful. Got everything I wanted and/or needed on the truck. Special shout out to Lee the sales person that helped me. He was a great help and very knowledgeable. I would also like to thank Frank the financial manager. He is very honest and doesn’t try to sell you on stuff you don’t want or need. I would highly recommend anyone go see this team for new and used vehicles. Thanks guys keep up the great work. Love my truck.”
Johnny Running, Google Review
5. Lincoln Heights Ford Sales
Address: 1377 Richmond Rd.
Phone: +1 613 829 2120
Business Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 8 PM
- Friday – 8:30 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Lincoln Heights Ford carries a wide inventory of both new and pre-owned Ford vehicles, ranging from dependable trucks like the F-150 to eco-conscious hybrids and plug-in models like the Escape PHEV.
Though you won’t feel overwhelmed with all these stocks, since their staff are accommodating and knowledgeable. They’ll take the time to explain the differences between models and recommend options based on your needs.
They even went above and beyond to help me find the perfect car, sourcing one from another location to meet a specific colour preference. Actually, my friend, who tagged along and was planning to trade in his car, went through the process effortlessly.
Everything here was streamlined and hassle-free—a sentiment echoed by other clients.
That said, I did find a recurring downside: several clients have raised concerns about delayed responses when it comes to after-care services. While this might not be a dealbreaker for everyone, it’s definitely something to consider.
Outstanding teamwork and customer care
“We had the most enjoyable experience with the salesmen and service staff on Thursday. Purchased a 2025 F150 5.0 crew cab. Most awesome color, a mix of blue and black, depending on how you look at it. Moe was our fantastic salesman, and David, Pat, made it a family affair. The purchase was made possible by Sophia in service. Her excellent treatment of my hubby and I in the service department peeked our interest in what the rest of the dealership was like. Thank you, Sophia.”
Janepher McBride, Google Review
Knowledgeable and customer-first approach
“These are great guys. They’re honest and personable, and help you find options for the best deal. Buying a new vehicle with big factory discounts with employee pricing and low interest was a no-brainer.
Han’s straightforward and is a stand-up guy, he’s very knowledgeable, and knew how to get me in the truck I wanted. There is a reason why this dealer is rated highly. Great team.”
Brandon Kownirk Donovan, Google Review
6. Star Motors of Ottawa
Address: 400 W Hunt Club Rd, Nepean
Phone: +1 613 737 7827
Business Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 7 AM to 7 PM
- Friday – 7 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday – 8 AM to 5 PM
When I visited Star Motors of Ottawa, it was clear why they’ve been a trusted name since 1957. Their lineup is nothing short of impressive, offering everything from the latest Mercedes-Benz and AMG models to carefully inspected pre-owned vehicles.
For those interested in electric options, I also learned they have a solid selection of Mercedes-Benz EVs. Now, what I commend them for was how seamless and transparent their sales approach was.
I felt no pressure at all—just knowledgeable staff who genuinely seemed interested in getting me what I wanted. An added perk that caught my attention was their complimentary prepaid maintenance with the purchase of any new Mercedes.
Their valet service for repairs also makes dropping by super convenient. Best of all, their customer lounge definitely lives up to the hype; it’s stocked with snacks, refreshments, and Wi-Fi for a comfortable wait.
That said, one downside I noticed was their staffing issue. They seemed a bit short-handed, so the response time was slower unless you had scheduled an appointment.
Exceptional attention to detail
“I had a fantastic experience at Star Motors Mercedes-Benz. From the moment I arrived, the staff was professional, courteous, and made me feel well taken care of. The service was prompt and thorough, and they kept me informed every step of the way. What truly impressed me was the extra care—they washed and detailed my vehicle before returning it, and it looked absolutely pristine. That attention to detail really sets them apart and shows how much they value their customers. Thank you to the entire service team for going above and beyond. I highly recommend Star Motors for anyone looking for quality care and top-tier service.”
Natalie Bertrand, Google Review
Outstanding service and genuine dedication to customers
“We had a fantastic experience with Star Motors of Mercedes! From start to finish, the service was top-notch. A special thank you to Sam and Sal—they were incredibly helpful, professional, and genuinely went above and beyond to make sure everything went smoothly. Whether it was answering all our questions, guiding us through the process, or just being friendly and approachable, they truly made a difference. I highly recommend Mercedes Stars if you’re looking for quality service and people who care. Thanks again, Sam and Sal!”
Tamar Raslan, Google Review
