The Canadian was introduced by Canadian Pacific in April 1955 as its flagship transcontinental passenger train from Montreal and Toronto to Vancouver. It featured new FP9A locomotives and a consist of new stainless steel passenger cars built by Budd in Philadelphia.
The Canadian lasted with Canadian Pacific until 1978, when it was transferred to VIA Rail Canada. It continued to operate on the original Canadian Pacific routing until 1990, when it was moved to CN tracks. VIA refurbished and upgraded The Canadian to Head End Power and relaunched in 1992 under the “Silver and Blue” branding.
3D rendering of Budd Coach, Chateau Sleeper and Park Car
The train was recently upgraded again, adding “Prestige” service cars at the rear. These are Chateau Sleepers and Park Cars converted to gorgeous suites with queen-size beds and private showers. Despite suffering from poor timekeeping by “the freight railway,” The Canadian is still VIA’s flagship train. It still operates with the original Budd cars, and it still delights riders from around the world.
The Canadian N-scale set comprises seven different Budd passenger car styles, and our set includes extra coaches and sleepers to create a longer train. The prototype could include as many as 30 cars, but is regularly between 18 and 22 cars long.
The Canadian Passenger Cars Feature
- Accurate Budd fluting profile
- Full interiors, including two optional Skyline interiors
- Track-powered interior lighting on DC and DCC
- Separate, etched metal grab irons and handrails
- Beautiful stainless steel finish
- Operating marker lights on all Park Cars
- Operating marker lights on all HEP enabled cars
Available for Pre-Order Now
Order direct or through your favourite dealer.
VIA Prestige 3-car Set
In 2011, VIA Rail began a rebuild program on eight Chateau Sleepers and four Park Cars to create a high-end, luxury service aboard The Canadian. Our Prestige cars feature the all-new interior arrangement of the real cars, along with the rebuilt car side to incorporate enormous picture windows in each bedroom.
Skyline Mid-Train Dome
Everybody loves a good dome car, and The Canadian has almost always run with a minimum of two per train. Since the late 1990s, four domes has been the de facto standard in the high season. Add on to your Canadian set, or buy as a stand-alone car. HO scale model shown in picture.
Canadian 10 & 3 Car Sets
Canada's iconic rail experience, available for the first time ever in N scale. 10-car and 3-car sets available. Whether you model the Toronto waterfront in 1962, Allandale Station in 1993, or the BC interior in 2012 - this train belongs on your layout. Please note: caribou in photo is not included.