MOST POPULAR: TOYOTA RAV4

The hybrid powertrain has quickly come to dominate RAV4 sales in NZ and it’s still the best-selling hybrid of any kind in the country year-to-date.

Not only is the hybrid the most frugal RAV4 by far (under 5l/100km for a mediumsized SUV is impressive), it's also the quickest. The E-Four AWD system is clever, too, with the rear axle powered only by the battery, giving precise control.

In view of the hybrid's popularity, Toyota NZ expanded the RAV4 range last year to include five separate variants; there's a new dressed-up XSE version to sit underneath the Limited and the off-tarmac-focused Adventure is also now available with hybrid power.

Price range $46,990-$58,490 (less Clean Car Discount $2335.69-$2387.24)

Powertrain 2.5-litre petrol four-cylinder engine with hybrid electric system, CVT, AWD

Power/torque 163kW (combined)/221Nm

Consumption 4.8l/100km

CO2 109g/km.