Few gifts get a reaction like a ride-on car. It is a toy, a first "car" and a reason to get outside, all in one. The trick is choosing the right one for your child's age and size, so it is fun on day one and still fits next summer. Here are our picks by age group.
Best picks for toddlers (ages 1 to 3)
Look for a single seat, a low top speed, a seat belt and a parental remote so you can steer and stop while your child learns.
- Volkswagen Beetle 12V Kids Ride On Car: officially licensed Beetle styling, doors that open, slow-start system, seat belt and remote, 3 to 5 km/h.
- Ford Raptor 12V: ages 1 to 6, licensed pickup styling, 2.4G parental remote, adjustable seat belt, leather seat and MP3 sound.
- Mercedes Benz 12V SL500: ages 1 to 5, 2.4G remote with 3 speeds, seat belt and built-in music.
- Not ready for a battery car yet? The CAT Caterpillar Foot to Floor Ride On is a push car for ages 1 to 3 with hidden storage.
More ideas in our guide to the best ride-on cars for toddlers in Canada.
Best picks for ages 3 to 5
This is the sweet spot for 24V. The extra power handles grass and gentle slopes, and many models seat two, which is perfect for siblings.
- Range Rover HSE 24V 2 Seater: ages 3 to 6, up to 110 lbs combined, 5 to 8 km/h, padded seat with seat belt and parental remote.
- Porsche Macan Turbo 24V: licensed Porsche design, ages 2 to 7, up to 66 lbs, about 5 km/h, 45 to 90 minutes per charge.
- Tesla Cybertruck Style 12V: for ages 1 to 5, up to 66 lbs, 3 to 6 km/h, with a 2.4 GHz remote. See all Tesla-style ride-ons.
Best picks for ages 6 and up (24V, 36V and 2-seaters)
Older kids want more speed, more room and real controls. Check the weight limit first, since this is where kids outgrow toddler cars fast.
- Porsche 911 GT3 24V 2 Seater: officially licensed, ages 3 to 8, up to 110 lbs, up to 8 km/h, two leather seats with seat belts.
- Can-Am Outlander 4X4 24V 2 Seater ATV: ages 3 to 8, up to 110 lbs, up to 8 km/h, built for the backyard.
- Speedy 36V Go Kart: ages 6+, 36V lithium battery, up to 20 km/h, adjustable seat.
- For bigger kids (and grown-ups), see our XXL ride-on cars for adults, such as the 24V Lamborghini Aventador XXL 2 Seater (ages 6+, up to 220 lbs).
Browse all 24V ride-on cars, or read 12V vs 24V ride-on cars if you are unsure which to pick.
Gift-giving tips
- Order early. Ride-on cars ship in large boxes, and the holiday season is the busiest time of year. Preorder items show their expected arrival on the product page.
- Plan for assembly. Most ride-ons need some assembly. Do it before the big day, out of sight.
- Charge before you wrap. Give the battery its full first charge (often 8 to 12 hours) so it is ready to drive.
- Add a personal touch with a personalized licence plate, and a ride-on cover for storage.
FAQ
What is the best ride-on car for a 2-year-old?
A single-seat 12V car with a parental remote, a seat belt and a low top speed of about 3 to 5 km/h.
12V or 24V for a 5-year-old?
24V, especially for grass, two riders or a heavier child. 12V suits smooth driveways and younger kids.
Can two kids ride together?
Yes, on 2-seater models. Check the combined weight limit on the product page.
Can kids use a ride-on car in winter?
They are best on dry, clear surfaces. Many families use them indoors in a basement or garage over the winter and outside again in spring. Store the battery above freezing and top it up monthly.
Shop ride-on cars for kids
Toronto Toys has sold kids electric ride-ons since 2013 and ships across Canada, with local pickup by appointment in the GTA.
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