EFTM BEST AWARDS 2023: BEST FAMILY CAR

During the year we had to re-focus our business priorities so was unable to drive as many press evaluation cars as I normally would. In 2024 that will change, but with a strong EV focus with imminent launch of our new EV podcast.

With that said, I couldn’t have our awards without some key categories in the motoring field. And Family Car had to be one of them.

To ensure we get the best of the bunch, I spoke with respected reviewers who share the values of these EFTM Best Awards, that being a push for value for the buyer, not just the latest and greatest, and overall bang for your buck.

It’s in part based on those values that this award goes to the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. It certainly isn’t the newest car in its segment but it’s been the most popular SUV in Australia since this model went on sale five years ago.The only exception: when large shipments of the Tesla Model Y electric car have occasionally knocked the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid from its perch.  

The size of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is perfect for families just starting out with a couple of kids, and the miserly hybrid system means it’s sips fuel, which saves your wallet. 

Real world testing found the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid cuts fuel bills basically in half, using about 5L/100km. Few cars in this segment (or any of a similar size for that matter) can make this claim. 

Importantly, not all hybrid systems are created equally. There have been instances of minimal fuel savings in Subaru and Mazda hybrids – and a roughly 25 per cent saving in GWM Haval hybrids. 

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid aces the lot by slashing fuel costs by 40 to 50 per cent depending on the type of driving you do. 

There is one downside. The queue for the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid remains one to two years, I’d even suggest the second hand or auction market might be ripe for these models. 

That said, we have seen some customers get bumped up the queue as orders ahead of them get cancelled. 

So while this award may seem predictable, that’s no reason to not award a truly worthy car. 

Congratulations Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. You’re the a winner in our books, and this year it’s the EFTM BEST Award for BEST FAMILY CAR.