There is no doubt that the compact crossover SUV class is the place to be in the car world these days and the RAV4 occupies a prized position. Well-known and loved with an established reputation for reliability, car-like power and handling, fuel economy, space and family appeal, most other crossovers can only aspire to the RAV4’s lofty heights of popularity. Despite the exponential growth in the number of other vehicles in the class (thanks to the economy and fuel prices pushing buyers out of the large SUVs into smaller crossovers) the RAV4 maintains its ability to wow the punters with plenty of features at a reasonable price. This year there is not a lot new, although the redesigned bumper and grille give it a up-to-date look, and there is a bit more power available for its four-cylinder engine.
The big news is that this year the RAV4 gets a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 170hp and 172lb-t of torque and is mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. The old 2.4-liter was a bit of a thorn in the side of 2008’s RAV4 for its lack of get-up-and-go, so even this modest improvement in performance is a good thing. The engine size increase has been accompanied by a new dual variable valve timing system for intake and exhaust, which increases overall engine efficiency and fuel economy. The 2.5-liter makes 21/27mpg city/highway driving which is far and away the best in the class and even beats an awful lot of sedans on the market. It also includes the ShiftLogic system which minimizes the searching through gears that many automatics tend towards.
By our reckoning still the clear-cut best option however is the 3.5-liter V6 which churns out 269hp and 246lb-ft of torque and sends it to the road through a five-speed automatic transmission. This engine is amongst the most powerful in the class and boasts brilliant acceleration, making it from 0-60mph in just 6.3 seconds and still doing 19/26mpg. The optional sports suspension provides even better handling if you are planning to put it through its paces along twisty country roads. If you are looking for fun driving on top of the versatility of a SUV, then it is really hard to look past this V6 RAV4.
With three trim levels to choose from, each has the option of the 2.5 or 3.5-liter V6 as well as the choice between front-wheel or all-wheel drive with locking differential. With the full towing package fitted, the 2.5-liter can tow 1,500lb and the V6 can tow 3,500lbs.
2009 Toyota RAV4 Interior and Features
The RAV4 might offer great performance, but its interior does not let you forget that it is priced on the lower end of the scale. While there are plenty of features available, the overall finish is not excellent with lots of hard plastic, ill-fitting joints and a lack of overall style. However, that being said, it is still a great family vehicle, and by adding options packages the overall style can be greatly improved.
There are three trims available in the 2009 RAV4. The Base trim features 16-inch wheels (pay a bit extra and you can have 17-inch), tilt/telescoping steering wheel column, six-speaker stereo system with CD and MP3 capability, and power everything. Upgrade to the Sport trim and you get 18-inch alloy wheels, sports suspension, tinted windows and heated side mirrors. Top-of-the-range is the Limited trim which includes 17-inch wheels, six-CD changer, satellite radio and dual-zone air conditioning.
If you still want more, there are plenty of additional options like leather-trimmed seats, nine-speaker stereo system, run-flat tires, Bluetooth, rear entertainment system, rear camera, sunroof and the list goes on. A third row of seating is also optional which boosts the seating to seven, although the legroom leaves space for only the kids. This third row and the second row fold flat into the floor for enormous cargo space. In the five-seat version there are two large storage wells in the rear floor which a great for stopping the groceries rolling around.
2009 Toyota RAV4 Safety
In government crash testing the RAV4 scored a perfect five stars for driver front and side impact, and passenger side impact. Four stars were awarded for passenger front impact and rollover resistance, giving an overall “good” rating.
The full range of safety features are available, ranging from stability control and traction control, to active front headrests and anti-lock brakes. Hill-ascent and descent control is standard for the V6 and those vehicles with the third row of seating. Airbags for the front, front-side and side curtain are standard.
Safety features:
- Front-side and side curtain airbags
- Electronic stability control, traction control and ABS
- Active front headrests
Overall the 2009 Toyota RAV4 is a clear leader in the compact SUV class, offering outstanding power and handling (especially in the V6) and family-friendly features for a value price.