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 1 through 10 of 120.00
  • Loving my 09 Rav4 - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    I am really enjoying my RAV4. I was torn between buying the 08 4cyl and waiting to buy the revamped 09 4cyl. I am very happy with my choice. I have no problem pulling on to the highway and passing is a breeze. The acceleration is smooth. I was also very pleased with how well it handled snowy NH roads.

  • Very good car/sSUV - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    It is fun to drive this car/sSUV. The gas mileage is good. The layout of the temperature controls are good, but the control for the audio is a bit high or out of reach.

  • Couldnt Be More Pleased - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    I replaced my 12-year old Geo Prizm LSi with this car and I couldnt be more pleased. The 2.5L 4-cyl offers plenty of power and mileage is decent (only filled up a few times and getting around 24-26 mpg combined. I anticipate getting better because weather is so cold right now. This car is quiet, smooth handling, and great for me to drive as a car to work and run errands in, plus fine to carry the wife and 3 small kids in as well. I would definitely buy one in the future if Toyota continues to make these!

  • Here in the Real World - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    We purchased our Rav 4 in Febuary and so far so good. Typical Toyota quality. Snow, ice, and now mud doesnt slow this baby down. Although its not a hardcore 4X4, it does the job. Id buy another one tomorrow.

  • A Surprise Decision - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    My BMW 330i was fun, solid and hugely expensive to maintain. I researched many options and while looking at an FJ Cruiser, the salesperson suggested a RAV4. I was surprised at the V6 performance and handling was also unexpected. I loaded it up and chose the Limited because of the heated leather seats.The outside spare was not an issue because I was looking at an FJ. The center dash stack is space ship like and the gauges dont all read top of dial for normal. Im 6ft 3in. and I can wear a cap with the sunroof. This is a very comfortable car with deceptive interior room and storage space, and it is kinda fun to drive. Got the extended warranty and waved good bye to $1000 repairs.

  • Uncomfortable Seats - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    The driver seat and the front passenger seat are very uncomfortable. Probably the worst I experienced in a car. The car performs great but I hate to drive it because of the seat.

  • California Rav4 - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    We own a generation 1 rav4 and have nearly 250,000 miles on it. We have a baby on the way and needed more room for a car seat. We test drove a few other makes and models and ultimately decided to buy a new rav4. I really enjoy the peppy 4cyl engine and the decent gas mileage. I am 61" tall and find the front leg room to be a bit lacking. Also, the new rav4 doesnt brake as well as our old rav4. However, the new rav4 turns easier and maneuvers better. I miss being able to park in the tiniest spaces, but hey now we have room for a stroller, groceries, and a car seat. I would recommend a 2009 rav4 to anyone looking for a small SUV that is lots of fun to drive.

  • Buy Cheap, Buy Often - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    The old saying goes, "Buy cheap, buy often." I purchased this car less than a month ago with Toyota in mind of having a reputation for reliability that is second to none in the industry. That was the main reason for looking at Toyota, even with the whole recall mess. I verified my model 2009 with vin starting with "J" was not part of the recent recall. We took the car on a road trip and got amazing gas mileage. I have the 4-cyl model and it was perfect. Plenty of room and even more incredible is the seats in back are adjustable and will slide back to maximize leg room. Great idea Toyota! Love the car!

  • Great Car - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    I have put on almost 10,000 miles. ACTUAL mileage for every drop of gasoline in town and on highway is 21.9 MPG. Have the V6 4WD Limited with all the bells and whistles. This car is a rocket with lots of power and great handling. Silver Classic color is gorgeous.

  • Disappointed - 2009 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    Leased this car for my kid. The transmission shifts and sounds like a cement mixer. The interior is wall-to- wall plastic with no soft areas. The push button glove box is kind of quirky and small. The center console that houses the radio looks and feels like something from a K-Mart appliance center. The fuel filler door is riveted on and has the feeling it is going to be pulled off if too much pressure is exerted. Car is relatively slow. I should have leased the Jeep Patriot or Ford Escape. RAV4 is acceptable, but certainly not anything that is above the others including the domestics. This is the last Toyota I will purchase.

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