August 5, 2008 - Torrance, CA - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) today for the 2009 RAV4 compact sport utility vehicle (SUV).

Equipped with numerous enhancements for 2009, the average MSRP for the RAV4 will increase by $224, or 0.9 percent. The 2009 RAV4 will begin arriving at Toyota dealerships in early September.

The 2009 RAV4 is offered in three distinct grades - Base, performance-oriented Sport and top-of-the-line Limited - and with a choice between an all-new four-cylinder and powerful V6 engines with either front-wheel drive or electronic on-demand four-wheel-drive.

The base MSRP for the 2009 RAV4 ranges from $21,500 for the Base grade front-wheel-drive with a four-cylinder engine to $27,810 for the Limited grade four-wheel-drive with a V6 engine. Prices for all Base grade models remain unchanged from 2008, reflecting RAV4's excellent value.

All models will also offer Extra Value Packages containing many of RAV4's most popular stand alone option features at substantial savings. Savings on Extra Value Packages for all three grades range from $570 on Base, $1,000 on the Sport, and $2,000 on Limited.

For 2009, RAV4 adds an all-new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that is more powerful and more fuel efficient than the previous 2.4-liter engine. In addition, all RAV4 models feature numerous interior upgrades and a stylish new Sport Appearance Package is available for the 4WD V6 model.

All RAV4 models provide enhanced safety and security with the addition of standard front seat active headrests and an engine immobilizer. Comfort, convenience and user technology are also significantly enhanced in 2009 RAV4 models. The Limited grade adds a new standard Smart Entry system that allows the driver to open the vehicle by simply carrying the key fob and grasping the door handle. 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, and the Sport and Limited grades offer a new low-cost navigation system. All RAV4 models have new standard seat fabric, and the Sport grade exclusively offers a new, unique Charcoal leather option.

Externally, the design of the 2009 RAV4 is freshened with new front and rear styling with a revised grille and front bumper, improved fog light trims and redesigned tail lamps. 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.

The Sport Appearance Package available for the 4WD V6 RAV4 model includes an exclusive look with a redesigned rear door featuring chrome accents and no spare tire. The package equips the RAV4 with run-flat tires. Other external cues include color-keyed power heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, a stainless steel exhaust tip, unique badging, and the choice of an exclusive exterior color, Elusive Blue Metallic. Inside, the Sport Appearance Package adds a chrome accented shift knob with leather insert, chrome interior door handles, parking brake and vent trim, unique sport grade doorsills and available sport floor mats.

The Sport Appearance Package includes an AM/FM six-disc CD changer with six speakers, MP3/WMA playback capability and integrated XM® Satellite Radio with a one-year extended complementary service subscription.

The RAV4's standard all-new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is a low-friction design optimized for performance and fuel efficiency. It produces 179 horsepower at 6,000 RPM, along with 172 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 RPM (versus 166 horsepower and 165 lb.-ft. of peak torque of the previous 2.4-liter engine). The 2.5-liter engine employs Dual independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which controls timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts (compared to the intake-only previous 2.4-liter engine).

The redesigned four-cylinder engine is partnered with a new four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission that is more compact, lightweight and efficient than the previous four-speed transmission. The new transmission is not only smoother in operation than the previous one, but more responsive as well. Fuel efficiency is excellent for its class and improved over the 2008 model with EPA mpg estimates of 22 city/28 highway on 4×2 models and 21 city/27 highway on 4×4 models.

The available 3.5-liter V6 is the powerhouse of its segment, generating a class-leading 269 horsepower at 6,200 RPM and 246 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,700 RPM. The V6 is also equipped with dual independent VVT-i to maximize performance and efficiency while reducing emissions. Equipped exclusively with a five-speed automatic transmission, the V6 RAV4 models offer greater fuel efficiency compared to less powerful competitors. The V6 RAV4 can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in under seven seconds, yet has estimated EPA fuel economy mpg ratings of 19 city/27 highway for 4×2 models and 19 city/26 highway for 4×4 models. All RAV4 models meet Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV II) certification.

Toyota to showcase innovation at 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show

World-premiere of a radical new small car concept
10 years of Hybrid Synergy Drive
Two new Yaris models
New RAV4 Cross Sport
More specifications for the legendary Land Cruiser


At the Frankfurt Motor Show, Toyota will also unveil a new small car concept in a revolutionary design.

Furthermore, Toyota is celebrating 10 years of commercial success with hybrid technology and the world's most popular low emissions hybrid car, the Toyota Prius. This focus on hybrid technology is one key element in Toyota's commitment to minimising fleet average CO2 emissions in Europe.

Toyota also uses the Frankfurt Motor Show to present the latest updates in some of its most popular models in Europe:

Two new models will be introduced into the Yaris line-up. The new Yaris 1.0-liter will showcase Yaris intelligent technology for smart urban driving, with its economical and easy-to-drive style. The new Yaris mid-range grade offers more refined sportiness with a choice of petrol or diesel engines and hi-tech equipment levels, including an integrated, full map navigation system.

The iconic Toyota RAV4 comes with a new grade: RAV4 Cross Sport, offered in a new stylish design and premium quality with a range of enhancements for the 2008 model year. These further emphasise the sophisticated and urban design themes of RAV4 across the range.

Also on the stand is the Land Cruiser, now offered with extra specifications to further enhance passenger comfort. The fresh exterior styling of Land Cruiser adds a more dynamic look to reflect the superior quality of the model range.

For more information, please visit the Toyota press conference at Frankfurt Motor Show on September 11th 2007, Hall 8.

For my money, there's nothing like domestic violence for sheer comedic value. Saab covered this ground a few years back with a TV spot that pitted a blatantly bougie couple against one another, in a valiant effort to wrest first dibs on a 9-5. Now, it's Toyota's turn. While you might find fault in this New Zealand spot's me-too status, you simply must have to admire its comic virtuosity and level of destruction. Even the achingly obvious use of the Turtles' "Happy Together" adds to the injurious gestalt. Points off for bowling-ball abuse. – Mike Spinelli

Toyota: Happy Together [TBS Funny Ads]

Related:
More Ad Watch [internal]

"The average price increase on the models was $136, or about 0.7%.

Among the changes, the suggested price of the Corolla compact sedan will rise $100, or 0.6%; the FJ Cruiser sport utility vehicle will rise $200, or 0.9%; and gasoline-powered versions of the Camry midsize sedan will rise $200, or 0.9%.

Prices also will rise on the Yaris subcompact sedan and hatchback, Matrix crossover utility vehicle, RAV4 compact SUV and Tacoma pickup truck."

Prices on 7 Toyota models to edge up [AP via Freep]

Related:
Lexus, For Some Reason, Announces LS 470 Limited Edition Pricing; Breaking Records! Toyota Likes To Be On Top Of Ford, Sales Up A Super Best-Ever 15.9% [internal]

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Toyota Gets A Rear End NHTSA Probe; Toyota Initiates Massive Recall; Breaking! Tundra Recall: Toyota To Recall 160,000 Pickups; Toyota Recalls FJ Cruisers Due to Rolling Stock Issue [internal]

With Honda having entered the luxury small-ute market with the CR-V derived Acura RDX, it's reasonable to assume Lexus will follow with a RAV-4 derived model of its own. And that's exactly what the backchannel talk's been pointing to, with a new such Lexus expected for the 2008 model year. Hans Lehmann and his band of bock-swilling Photoshop meisters created a mockup of what the small luxo-ute may look like on the forecourt. Think of a RAV-4 crossed up with a Corvette Z06. Sort of. – Mike Spinelli

SPY PHOTOS: Lexus LF-A and Small SUV [World Car Fans]

Related:
Lexus Considering Small SUV [internal]

As a frequent business traveler and a Hertz Gold Member I've had my share of Fusions, Mustangs and Tauruses (Taurii?). On a recent trip to the Bay Area I was surprised to see a utility-company-white 2006 Toyota RAV4 parked in space #312 at San Jose's Norman Y. Mineta International Airport. My company requires employees to rent at least a midsize vehicle, and occasionally Hertz has upgraded me to a full-size SUV or convertible. I guess this is one of the few times one could classify a mini-SUV as a midsize vehicle.

My usual routine is always to toss my luggage in the trunk of the car, which invariably leads to my first impressions of my ride for the week. The RAV4 has a wide, side-swinging tailgate that would have been easy to open had it not been for a Ford Taurus parked just inches behind. The low floor made loading luggage a snap, but judging from the number of deep gouges in the bumper, prior renters found it easier to drag their Samsonites across the threshold. A bumper guard would be a wise investment for those committed to a long-term relationship with the RAV4.

My second impression (not Toyota's fault) came via the untold number of renters granted driving privileges for this particular RAV4 previously. I wondered how a vehicle with less than 9000 miles on it could smell like an orangutan's armpit during an Indonesian summer. I had a 45-minute drive and a meeting with a boss in 30, so the visit to the Hertz rental counter had to wait.

I quickly made myself familiar with interior controls, specifically the power windows and the climate control system. The tilt/telescope steering wheel and manual adjusting seats were easy to use, and the overall interior layout echoed generations of Toyota ergonomics and sensibility. The windows are large and made one feel as if the seating position is higher than what it actually is.

My only complaints were with the small lettering on the dashboard gauges and a less than effective drink holder. The tiny print used on the gauges reflected the mini-SUV theme, but my travel-weary eyes found it difficult to focus on. A trip to In-N-Out Burger evetually confirmed my suspicion that the cup holders, while large enough to hold a large chocolate shake, did a poor job of keeping smaller drinks steady; more than once did I play catch with my drink while on the road.

The 16-valve four-banger is zippy and eager. Pulling onto the 101 Freeway was a snap and it provided ample cruising and passing power when needed. The ride was a different story. While low-speed maneuvers required little effort, the RAV4 became squirrelly at highway speeds. Bucking and bouncing over the grooved highways and wavy local roads confirmed recent news reports that California's roadways are the worst in the nation. The RAV4 would probably be great for those with a short commute, but Dramamine is required for anyone taking a road trip.

Despite its broncoesque ride and indecipherable gauges, the RAV4 was a welcome change from the typical midsized rental. The surprisingly roomy interior and sporty appearance makes city driving a breeze but anything longer than a short commute would be a boon to chiropractors everywhere. Perhaps next time Hertz will upgrade me to something from the Hertz "Fun" Collection (Shelby GT-H anyone?) – Gene Manuel

Send all rental-car reachrounds to tips@jalopnik.com.

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Jalopnik Rental-Car Reacharound, Short Form: The Shelby Mustang GT-H [internal]

Pardon the intrusion, but this is Jalopnik's buddy Ken, vaguely dramatized by one of the site's talented editors [Nice touch - ed]. I have a dilemma. I'm looking at buying a new car, and the '06/'07 Toyota RAV4 is on my list. However, every RAV4 I see is driven by a woman. Is the RAV4 unoficially considered a "chick car," like the VW Cabrio, or Pontiac Sunfire? I've done a little research and found Toyota aggressively marketed the 2004 RAV4s to women and that 75% of RAV4 drivers are women. However, the newer model is larger, has more aggresive styling, and comes with an optional 269-hp engine. Has the RAV4 moved beyond "cute ute" status?

Thanks in advance,
Ken

Gawker Media polls require Javascript; if you're viewing this in an RSS reader, click through to view in your Javascript-enabled web browser.

Lessee, a diesel-powered RAVvie rolling on low-profiles; there's something to tell the grandkids about. Toyota calls it the RAV4 D1-Sports, a show vehicle the company unveiled at the Geneva show. The little torque-monster looks like it might be capable of some serious cornering on those twisty IKEA on-ramps.

Related:
Toyota Announces 2006 RAV4 Pricing [internal]

Man, you could totally set your watch by these guys. Toyota's reportedly considering a small luxury SUV to compete with the BMW X3, next-gen Land Rover Freelander and various sundries on the way from Acura and Mercedes. The new model would be based on the recently redesigned Toyota RAV4 and could show up by 2008. Can an Infiniti-badged XTerra be far behind?

IL Exclusive: Lexus Mulls Small Crossover [Edmunds]

Related:
Uteful Digressions: Acura s New RDX Prototype

Maybe it was tired of all the "hairdresser's SUV" remarks, maybe it was good old competitiveness, but Toyota's new RAV4 looks to be a big improvement over the previous model, and will likely be a more potent challenger to the Honda CRV and the like. Of course, while we've gone on record as saying the previous generation (particularly in Limited trim) was more a more distinctive offering looks-wise, the '06 has more room, better storage space and is offered with a V6. The market will speak for itself. MSRPs after the jump.

Base
Four-cylinder, 4x2: $20,300 (+$200 , 1.0 percent over 2005)
Four-cylinder, 4x4: $21,700 (+$200, 0.9 percent)
V6, 4x2: $22,335
V6, 4x4: $23,735

Sport
Four-cylinder, 4x2: $21,875
V6, 4x4: $25,190

Limited
Four-cylinder, 4x2: $22,555
Four-cylinder, 4x4: $23,955
V6, 4x2: $24,470
V6, 4x4: $25,870

Related:
Toyota Unveils 2006 RAV4 [internal]

With a new V6 option (and more-powerful four), longer wheelbase, traction control and more passenger room — including a "third row" tot lot — Toyota's latest RAV4 is an exercise in responding to criticism. Where the current model's comportment is more jeeplike — rear legroom designed to Halfling specs, and lack of cargo space — the new one is a full-on small SUV. Still, the redesign's softer surfacing alleviates the angular design tension that made the current model appealing, giving it a more generic look. Sometimes, tension is good.

More photos and specs at Japanese Car Fans

Related:
Spy Photos: Extended Toyota RAV4 [internal]

Related:
First Shots of 2007 Toyota RAV4 [internal]

The buon' homies over at Autoblog.it directed us to a shot of Toyota's newly redesigned third-generation RAV4, which are official, but reportedly under press embargo until Monday. The new Ravvie will have more space than the can of kippers (do they come in a can?) on which the current RAV's legroom is modeled, though we've yet to hear confirmation of a V6. The RAV4 goes on sale in the UK in spring 2006. (For those who follow European-bound minicars, there's also a shot of the new Yaris, which means "everybody inhale" in Latin.)

Foto ufficiale Toyota RAV4 2006 [Autoblog.it]

Related:
Spy Photos: Extended Toyota RAV4 [internal]

Edmunds Inside Line has some shots of a strange, patchwork test mule version of Toyota's RAV4. Word is, the company is adding more space to its smallest of SUVs, the interior of which could cramp the Apollo 11 flight crew, and may give it its very first V6. The new RAV is expected to go on sale later in 2005 as a 2006 model, and could show up in Frankfurt.

RAV4 Going Big in 2006 [Edmunds]

Related:
Toyota to Launch 16 New Models in 30 Months; US Could Get 250hp Scion Sport Coupe [internal]