2009 Toyota RAV-4 with new 179HP 2.5L Engine

Toyota has announced pricing on the 2009 M.Y. RAV-4 that features minor styling changes along with a new 2.5-liter engine that replaces the previous 2.4-liter unit. Set to arrive at Toyota dealerships in early September, the average MSRP for the RAV4 will increase by $224, or 0.9 percent with prices ranging from $21,500 for the Base grade front-wheel-drive with a 4-cylinder engine to $27,810 for the Limited grade four-wheel-drive with a V6 engine.

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.