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.

The iconic Prius underwent a significant overhaul last year with the launch of its fifth generation. The latest generation departs from its previously sluggish and unconventional compact hatchback design and boasts sleek styling, more power, and better fuel economy than the previous generation.

Starting at $37,759 for the Prius XLE AWD-e, a 2.0L four-cylinder engine and an electric motor with standard AWD (that includes an additional electric motor for the rear wheels) results in a total output of 196 hp. At the same time, fuel efficiency remains impressive at 4.8 L/100 km.

In this latest Prius, Toyota has significantly improved the driver information display by moving it in front of the driver instead of the top of the centre console. The Toyota hybrid’s dashboard mirrors its modern, sleek exterior design with a large touchscreen. As for cargo space, the Prius is almost as practical as a small SUV. Its fold-down rear seats offer ample room for a couple of hockey bags and longer items like skis.

The Corolla Cross arrived in 2022, offering more capability than its sedan namesake. Already an efficient and practical subcompact SUV, with an electrically aided 196 hp and a remarkable 5.6 L/100 km fuel economy estimate, the Corolla Cross Hybrid delivers more power and better fuel economy than the Toyota SUV’s base gas-only 169-hp 2.0L four-cylinder engine. Starting at $34,590, the Corolla Cross Hybrid gets AWD standard (optional on the gas-only variant), giving drivers a more sophisticated multilink rear suspension instead of the standard torsion beam arrangement.

Inside the five-passenger Corolla Cross, you will find the same easy-to-use ergonomics as in many Toyota vehicles. Fitting its “SUV” responsibilities, the Corolla Cross rides higher than its sedan sibling with 8.0 inches of ground clearance, delivering that elevated driving position many drivers enjoy.