Toughening mechanisms and mechanical properties of three different polyolefin-based composite systems we studied using the tensile, Izod impact and double-notch lout-point-bending (DN-4PB) test, which is well known be an effective tool for probing the failure mechanism (s) around the subcritically propagated crack tip. Microscopy observations such as optical microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were carried out lot the test samples. A detailed investigation clearly shows that a variety of toughening mechanisms, i.e., shear yielding, craze, particle-matrix debonding, rubber particle cavitation, crack deflection and bifurcation, are observed around crack tip damage zone. These toughening mechanisms are responsible for the observed, improved fracture toughness. Based on this study, DN-4PB technique is sufficient to obtain the information needed to describe the fracture behavior of polyolefin-based composites as well as their corresponding toughening mechanisms.