2009 Toyota RAV4: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The biggest change for the 2009 Toyota RAV4 is a mid-cycle refresh that pairs updated exterior styling with a stronger 179-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It also receives active front headrests and structural and safety updates.

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About the 2009 Toyota RAV4

3rd gen (2006-2012), mid-cycle refresh year

Toyota positions the 2009 RAV4 as a compact crossover that blends car-like ease of driving with SUV space and flexibility. The core appeal is simple: roomy cabin, strong cargo utility, available small third row on select configurations, and a choice between efficiency-minded four-cylinder power or a notably strong V6. In Toyota’s own framing, it mixes form, fun, functionality, and value, making it a practical everyday family vehicle that still feels more nimble than a traditional truck-based SUV.

The 2009 RAV4 lineup spans the practical Base, the firmer-riding Sport, and the comfort-focused Limited. Sport stands out with 18-inch wheels and a sport-tuned suspension, while Limited adds dual-zone climate control, Smart Key entry with push-button start, and automatic headlights.

What changed, by category

Powertrain

Four-cylinder models replace the previous 2.4-liter engine with a 179-hp 2.5-liter engine. V6 models continue alongside them, with front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive represented in the lineup.

Styling

The exterior gets a new grille, revised front and rear bumpers, wider-looking fender flares, and updated rear lighting details.

Safety

Active front headrests are added as part of the refresh, along with other safety updates.

Structural

Toyota also made structural updates for the 2009 refresh. Base, Sport, and Limited are all additions in the year-over-year trim comparison.

2009 Toyota RAV4 specs and features by trim

Feature	2009 Toyota RAV4Base0 in stock	2009 Toyota RAV4Sport1 in stock	2009 Toyota RAV4Limited0 in stock
Engine	4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / V6, 3.5 Liter	4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / V6, 3.5 Liter	4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / V6, 3.5 Liter
Transmission	Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive	Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive	Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive
Drivetrain	4WD / 2WD	4WD / 2WD	2WD / 4WD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	19–21 mpg	19–21 mpg	19–22 mpg
MPG Highway	27 mpg	27 mpg	26–28 mpg
Horsepower	179–269 hp	179–269 hp	179–269 hp
Torque	172–246 lb-ft	172–246 lb-ft	172–246 lb-ft
Max Towing	1500 lb	1500 lb	3500 lb
Trunk/Cargo	73 cu-ft	73 cu-ft	73 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	30 in	38.3 in	30 in
Seats	7	5	7
Doors	4	4	4
Safety & Security
Alarm System
Hill Descent Control
Hill Start Assist
Rear View Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Heated Mirrors
Power Moonroof
Rear Spoiler
Roof Rails
Entertainment & Electronics
Bluetooth
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Satellite Radio
Comfort & Convenience
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Leather Seats
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Power Driver Seat
Remote Start
Third Row Seat

How the 2010 Toyota RAV4 compares

The 2010 Toyota RAV4 has no major changes. The main update is minor: Limited models receive added chrome accents around the parking brake and cabin vents.

See the full 2010 changes

Frequently asked questions

Is the 2009 Toyota RAV4 a redesigned model?

No. The 2009 RAV4 is a mid-cycle update of the third-generation model, not a full redesign. Its main revisions are refreshed exterior styling, a new four-cylinder engine, and safety-related updates.

What engine changed in the 2009 Toyota RAV4?

The four-cylinder engine changed for 2009. Four-cylinder RAV4 models moved from the previous 2.4-liter engine to a stronger 179-hp 2.5-liter engine, while the V6 remained part of the lineup.

How does the 2009 Toyota RAV4 differ from the 2008 model?

The 2009 RAV4 differs through refreshed front and rear styling, a stronger 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, active front headrests, and structural and safety updates. It is a meaningful refresh rather than a complete redesign.

Did the 2009 Toyota RAV4 receive safety updates?

Yes. The 2009 RAV4 added active front headrests, and its refresh also included structural and safety updates. Stability control, traction control, brake assist, front-seat side airbags, and side-curtain airbags remained key safety equipment.

What trims were added for the 2009 Toyota RAV4?

Base, Sport, and Limited are all additions in the 2009 year-over-year trim comparison. Base emphasizes everyday practicality, Sport adds a firmer suspension and 18-inch wheels, and Limited focuses on comfort and convenience.