For 2009 however, the 4-cylinder version now features an all-new 2.5L 4-cylinder, which obviously boasts more power (+13hp), yet surprisingly, is actually better on fuel. This new unit is also, in my opinion, more refined than its predecessor. In fact, when driving the 08 and the 09 versions back to back, the latter certainly provides smoother performance. The new 4-cylinder engine is mated to a 4 speed automatic transmission (no manual gearbox is offered).
Whilst we're on the subject of performance, Toyota suggested that we try comparing the two, in order to feel the difference. Now I have to be honest here, and even though my colleague and I tested them from both a standing start, side by side, and with the 08 chasing the 09 up to over 100kph, I couldn't honestly say that there was any real noticeable increase in performance. What I will say, and have, is that the new 4-cylinder feels much smoother and less raspy than the previous 4-pot motor.
Now to be fair, the 08 model which we were testing did have a few thousand kms on it, and the 09, just a few hundred. Therefore, it is possible that when the engine on the 09 beds in, runs in, whatever you want to call it, there might be a slight improvement.
One thing that has improved, according to figures obviously, as I didn't have the opportunity to fully experience (especially when you're drag racing two SUV's) is fuel economy. Toyota quotes that although it new engine produces more horsepower, it boasts an incredible 12.8 per cent improvement in fuel economy.
That's impressive for a vehicle which was already pretty good in that department, and although the accuracy of some of these can be a little suspect at times, the new instant fuel economy meter installed on the 09 model appeared to back up those numbers.
But wait, there's more!
The new 09 RAV4 now features electric power steering, which offers many benefits and perhaps explains some of the smoothness of the new power plant.
A few subtle changes have also been made to the exterior of the vehicle including a new front grill, redesigned headlamps, taillights, and bumpers. In fact, each trim level (Base, Sport, and Limited) now has its own distinctive front grille. Another nice touch is the integrated turn signal lights that have been incorporated into the side-view mirrors, and for 09, both the Base and Sport models receive the smart hard-cover spare wheel housing that the Limited model carries.
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| The new 4-cylinder feels much smoother and less raspy than the previous 4-pot motor. |
Whilst we're on the subject of performance, Toyota suggested that we try comparing the two, in order to feel the difference. Now I have to be honest here, and even though my colleague and I tested them from both a standing start, side by side, and with the 08 chasing the 09 up to over 100kph, I couldn't honestly say that there was any real noticeable increase in performance. What I will say, and have, is that the new 4-cylinder feels much smoother and less raspy than the previous 4-pot motor.
Now to be fair, the 08 model which we were testing did have a few thousand kms on it, and the 09, just a few hundred. Therefore, it is possible that when the engine on the 09 beds in, runs in, whatever you want to call it, there might be a slight improvement.
One thing that has improved, according to figures obviously, as I didn't have the opportunity to fully experience (especially when you're drag racing two SUV's) is fuel economy. Toyota quotes that although it new engine produces more horsepower, it boasts an incredible 12.8 per cent improvement in fuel economy.
That's impressive for a vehicle which was already pretty good in that department, and although the accuracy of some of these can be a little suspect at times, the new instant fuel economy meter installed on the 09 model appeared to back up those numbers.
But wait, there's more!
The new 09 RAV4 now features electric power steering, which offers many benefits and perhaps explains some of the smoothness of the new power plant.
A few subtle changes have also been made to the exterior of the vehicle including a new front grill, redesigned headlamps, taillights, and bumpers. In fact, each trim level (Base, Sport, and Limited) now has its own distinctive front grille. Another nice touch is the integrated turn signal lights that have been incorporated into the side-view mirrors, and for 09, both the Base and Sport models receive the smart hard-cover spare wheel housing that the Limited model carries.
 |
| The new 2009 RAV4 now features electric power steering. |