The new 2.5L unit that produces 179 HP at 6,000 RPM, along with 172 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 RPM (versus 166 HP and 165 lb.-ft. respectively of the previous 2.4L), is matted to a new 4-speed automatic transmission. According to Toyota, fuel efficiency is improved over the 2008 RAV-4 2.4L with EPA mpg estimates of 22 city/28 highway on 4x2 models and 21 city/27 highway on 4x4 models. The top-of-the-line 269 HP 3.5-liter V6 remains unchanged. -Continued
For the 2009 M.Y., the RAV-4 has been refreshed with a revised grille and front bumper, new fog light trims and redesigned tail lamps. Additionally, all models, except the 4WD V6 with the new Sport Appearance Package, include a redesigned rear step bumper with a black protector molding while the Sport Appearance Package receives a clear rear bumper protector. The Base and Limited grades feature new 17-inch alloy wheel designs, and the Limited also adds overfenders, new color-keyed power heated turn signal side mirrors and a unique grille design with chrome accents. The Sport grade adds a unique redesigned rear spoiler.
In terms of equipment, all 2009 models get standard front seat active headrests and an engine immobilizer. Additionally, the Limited grade adds a new standard Smart Entry system while the Sport and Limited grades offer an available integrated backup camera linked to an electrochromic mirror. Integrated XM satellite radio is a new feature for 2009, while the Sport and Limited grades also offer a new low-cost navigation system.
15 Comments:
I think it looks great! Especially the Sport sans spare tire. The new I-4 is interesting. Makes the coice between it and the V-6 much harder!
chunkee
Made in Canada no thanks poor Quality .Maybe Kia should buy the Moraine plant and build the Borrego there Im sure it will be a seller better than the Trailblaze
Such a shame that the rear door is a swing door; instead of the lift-up hatch! Definitely a negative.
I wish they would have put a 5 speed automatic in it. Just about every other manufacturer puts at least 5 gears in their small SUVs. This would improve acceleration and fuel economy. I don't care for the front end treatment. but the 2.5L is a nice change even though the 2.4L was fine.
The V6 does have a 5-spd. automatic tranny.
LOVE that the rear door is a swing door instead of a lift-up! That is a big reason I will not consider the Honda-CRV. Wish they would let you get a base trimline with a factory-installed moonroof.
I wish the 4cyl came with the 5 speed auto that the 4cyl Camry has. It would make the Rav4 faster and more fuel efficient.
It's time to get smart Toyota. Make the hatch a lift-up & not a side swing. It takes less space when opened while parked in the street & even inside the garage. Think. All of us don't have a 22' long garage or wide lots. Don't listen to Honda fans that a side swing is good. The crv is lift-up.
Is it true that the 2009 RAV 4 is made in Canada and not in Japan?
Give us a hybrid RAV 4, which will be perfect of both worlds in terms of fuel savings and larger space utility.
I was told the RAV 4 is made in Japan. The side swing door means I won't be hitting my head any longer - that's a plus for tall people.
I echo Anomymous Oct 1 (2) -- Should be a lift back door and not side swing. Moreover, lift door protects from the rain when loading. And you can leave the tire on the back to leave room to make this great vehicle even better by offering a hybrid (echo Anomymous Oct 4).
The only thing holding me back from purchasing a Rav4 is the back door. Is Toyota ever going to make it a lift up?
Don't rag on the rear swinging door. I own an 07 RAV4 and the combination of the spare on the door and the side swing is great. No need to worry about opening a lift hatch and banging it on your garage door and damaging the paint when the garage door is open (like my brother's Equinox). The benefit of not having a spare tire in or under the cargo area is awesome. The underfloor storage compartment is huge. Not to mention - have you ever gotten a flat tire on your vehicle with 4 people inside and the luggage compartment full? Guess what? No where to put that full size flat tire because the space where the dummy spare came from won't hold it. I guess you could always put the tire and rim on your wife's lap. No issues regarding that with the RAV4. Happened to me once. Slapped the flat on the door mount and fixed it when I had time. Just an FYI, the spare tire matches whatever wheel package is on the vehicle (steel or alloy). I hope they forget the lift, and forever keep the swing door. Buy a Highlander or Venza if it's such a big deal
Made i Canada is forsure better then Made in the United States, americans made cars are known for poor finishing.
Made i Canada is forsure better then Made in the United States, americans made cars are known for poor finishing.
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