2009 Toyota RAV4 2WD First Impressions

2009 Toyota RAV4 2WD First Impressions
by Mike Goetz / Auto123.com

KINGSTON, Ontario — Toyota Rav4, enters a new era. For the first time, the compact crossover will be available in front-wheel drive models.

And all of Rav4’s current models (AWD V6s, AWD I4s, in all three trim levels) continue. That means 11 different models of Rav4 for 2009.

In 4-cylinder trim they’re available in all of Rav4’s current three-model line-up (Base, Sport, Limited), and in V6 trim, they can be had in Sport and Limited. And all of Rav4’s current models (AWD V6s, AWD I4s, in all three trim levels) continue. That means 11 different models of Rav4 for 2009.

Mileage matters
This press event in Kingston, was designed to showcase Toyota’s broad-based approach to fuel efficiency — leading edge stuff like the new Prius hybrid, incremental stuff like conventional engine tweaking, and new model choices with 4-cylinder and 2WD powertrains.

“This flexibility to change our product mix is exactly what Canadians are looking for,” noted Toyota Canada spokesperson, Sandy De Felice.

By going to 2WD, Rav4 owners won’t see a whopping decrease in fuel consumption, but it will definitely help the cause. City/highway/combined L/100 km ratings for the 4-cyl 2WD Rav4s are 9.4/6.9/8.3, while AWD (I4) models clock in at 9.7/7.2/8.6. The 2WD V6 is rated at 10.7/7.4/9.2, while the AWD V6 is rated at 11.1/7.7/9.6.

As a comparison, the base 2WD 4-cyl model weighs about 55 kg less than its AWD equivalent, and the price gap is $1,685 ($24,295 versus $26,980).

Mild revision for 2009
The all-new Rav4, which happens to be Canadian-built, debuted in 2007. Model-year 2009 saw it get a few cosmetic tweaks; there are new grilles, bumpers, lights, and mirrors (now with turn signals).

City/highway/combined L/100 km ratings for the 4-cyl 2WD Rav4s are 9.4/6.9/8.3.

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