he RAV4 is not only one of the best hybrids according to our experts, but it’s also one of the most popular compact SUVs in Canada. Part of Toyota’s appeal is the availability of the hybrid: half of the 16 RAV4 trims can be had with the gas-electric AWD powertrain, starting at $39,950.

Bracketed between the base gas four-cylinder gas-only engine and the plug-in electric hybrid, the RAV4 Hybrid hits the sweet spot when trying to balance power and efficiency. Its 2.5L gas four-cylinder engine and two electric motors make a healthy 219 hp and contribute to a super-efficient 6.0 L/100 km fuel economy estimate (which drops slightly to 6.4 L/100 km with the rugged RAV4 Woodland Edition trim and its off-road tires).

No matter the powertrain propelling it, this current RAV4 generation has been in production for five years, making it one of the older competitors in its class. Despite its age, the Toyota still has back seats that provide ample legroom for average-sized adults. The RAV4 Hybrid’s cargo volume also delivers the same amount of space as its gasoline-only counterpart.