Since its launch in 1996, the Toyota RAV4 has always been a greener option for those wanting all-wheel drive.

Pre-dating the modern trend for downsizing, its compact body and 2.0-liter engine gave it significantly better gas mileage than many SUVs--and an electric version in 1997 took that even further.

Now, a new model is set to be unveiled, at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The 2013 Toyota RAV4--previewed in spy shots by our sister site, Motor Authority--will feature sporty styling and many of the virtues of the current model. You can see a few glimpses of the new car in Toyota's teaser video, above.

It's also likely to share much of the current car's engine range, including both four-cylinder and V-6 variants.

There's no word on an electric version just yet, but a hybrid version is likely. This is expected to share its drivetrain with a small Lexus hybrid crossover, likely to be called the NX 300h.

This will use a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine, as found in the 2013 Lexus ES 300h. All-wheel-drive is uncomfirmed for the hybrid, but should be an option on the regular versions.

We'll know more details after Toyota's press conference at the L.A. Auto Show, on Wednesday 28 November, at 9 am PST.

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