2009 Toyota RAV4 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.37/5 Average
120 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

A more powerful four-cylinder engine, a restyled grille and bumpers and the adoption of active headrests for the front seats mark the changes for the 2009 Toyota RAV4.

Pros:
  • Superb power and fuel economy from optional V6, balanced ride and handling, roomy second-row seating, low cargo floor, solid build quality, high crash test scores.
Cons:
  • Interior has a budget feel, side-hinged rear gate impedes curbside loading, driver seat a tight fit for tall drivers.

User Reviews:

Showing 101 through 110 of 120.00
  • Not enough comfort - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    I bought my rav 4 2009 base 4x4 because of the toyota quality so far it has quality but it is stiff and my honda civic is more comfortable than the brand new rav 4. I drove it in the snow and it was okay. I am happy with the vehicle but it doesnt drive as I expected.

  • Not worth the price/poor value/poor workmanship - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    questionable gas mileage at best, 4cyl is noisy, paint is the worst I have ever had on a vehicle, chipps to easily, toyota should put a full case of touch-paint in every vehicle. Has a tendency to accelerate, and the start stop button does not work as it is designed to do, alot of times the vehicle will not start when button is pressed. Toyota techs are even sure how to fix this problem nor can they explain how this is occuring with more frequency.

  • No recall but beware - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    My wife was picking up son from school in this vehicle and car accelerated with her foot on the brake. Took car to dealer and was told it was from Japan and no problems had been reported and no recalls we in effect. They did mash brake to try and duplicate problem but refused to replace anything. My wife and daughter get carsick so I have to ride in back seats when we travel as a family. Front seats are comfortable but rear is stiff and hard to adjust. We have bought 3 new Toyotas in our lifetime but this was our last. My wife was mad and scared after her experience so we traded for a Chevy the next weekend.

  • A Pleasant Surprise - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    After driving a V8 powered 4Runner for longer than I should have, I needed to find a better MPG for my commute. The Rav4 was a pleasant surprise. I never thought I would fall in love with a small SUV. The ride is smooth yet powerful with the V6 engine. Im averaging 23mpg which is a big step up over the 15 I was getting before. Handling is superb, although the electronic assisted steering takes some getting used to. At 61 space is an issue for me and I have plenty in the Rav4. I have a ton of shoulder, leg and head room and the storage bins under the cargo area are a nice feature. My road bike fits with ease with the seats folded down. I highly recommend the Rav4.

  • Real World Gas Mileage - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    Heres some "real world" mileage figures: Brand new 2009 V6 Limited 4X4....took it on a trip to New Mexico and Arizona starting in Minnesota. 4,498 miles....22.6 miles per gallon. 70-80 miles per hour on freeways plus city driving, lots of baggage. There ya go.

  • Nice - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    I have to say that I am very pleased with this vehicle. I am 6ft 2in and fit comfortably with plenty of leg and head room. The vehicle offers a quiet, smooth ride with minimal engine noise. I have read the digs that it is noisy, the engine is weak etc. Baloney. The RAV4 performs admirably when compared to most any vehicle in its class. And I have compared about 6 of its competitors. My combined mileage with less than 1000 miles, 2/3 highway and 1/3 city is 28.2. No kidding. I am pretty conservative-but this purchase was all about comfort, style, reliability, and mileage. I have them all.

  • Good SUV - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    The V6 engine has great performance. Quiet engine. Fun to drive, easy to park. I like the controls and fold down seats. Good gas mileage, 23/25 town, 27/29 highway. I am very disappointed in the ride, it is more like a truck, not smooth at all. Also the headrest are not comfortable.

  • Nothing Replaces Horsepower - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    From the moment I had this thing on the road, I loved it! Very fast, very good 4 wheeled discs, excellent handling, and gotta love the bluetooth. Never got the MPG as stated. City 16, combined 20 MPG, but I have a lead foot and love the twistys! This is the first car that I have owned that the word launch actually applies.

  • Love My RAV - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    I have owned my RAV4 for only three weeks but I feel it is a vehicle that I will keep for many years. I love nearly every aspect of the vehicle from the power of the six cylinder engine to the ease of handling. Theres plenty of storage area and ease of accessing materials. The quality of the materials appears to be excellent - I have perforated leather and heated seats. The smart key entry is wonderful since I just leave my keys in my pocket for entry and starting the vehicle. I do not find the swing door on the back to be a problem at all as it opens widely for easy access. The rear step bumper is also handy. To conclude, I am very pleased with my purchase and would recommend the RAV4.

  • Drives like a 09 Corolla - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    Averaging 28 mpg. RAV4 reminds me of a Corolla I had for a loaner for a month. Similar driving dynamics & lots of road noise & booming exhaust. In the morning the tranny has an annoying 2-stage takeoff from park, it engages 3/4s then full lock even when rolling. Once warmed up the hiccup goes away. Although the interior dashboard is not as cleverly designed as a CRV (not enough cubby compartments) the center armrest/console is a welcome feature. The rear side doors have only a molded cup holder for a small H2O bottle. The back door is a disappointment too. Just a fishnet and no cubby holes molded in the door like the CRV. Audio loudness feature is good because of the road noise.

Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area