2009 Toyota RAV4 Limited 2.5L I4 4-Spd Auto
Locally Owned & Hard To Find 3rd Gen RAV4 Limited Fully Loaded With Service History!
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For buyers seeking a reliable, upscale, and well-maintained compact SUV, this 2009 Toyota RAV4 Limited 4-Cylinder 2WD is an exceptional choice. With 172,000 miles, a three-owner history, and a clean California title, this vehicle has been diligently cared for, as evidenced by its clean Carfax report with 25 service records and no accidents. Finished in the elegant classic silver with a premium ash leather interior, it combines a timeless look with luxurious comfort and practicality. Powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission, this RAV4 Limited delivers efficient performance and versatility. As part of the third-generation RAV4, it represents a highly popular design known for its compact size, durability, and family-friendly features. This summary covers its history, specs, safety ratings, standout features, and a 10-point essentials list to highlight why this RAV4 Limited is a standout in the used compact SUV market.
Vehicle History and Generation Background
The 2009 Toyota RAV4 Limited belongs to the third generation of this pioneering compact SUV, produced from 2006 to 2012. Launched in late 2005 as a 2006 model, this generation marked a significant evolution for the RAV4, introducing a more rugged design, increased interior space, and the option for a powerful V6 engine, while retaining the compact footprint that made it a bestseller. Assembled in Japan (Tahara and Obu plants) and Canada (Woodstock, Ontario), the third-gen RAV4 became a top contender in the compact SUV segment, competing with the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape. The 2009 model year brought a mid-cycle refresh, featuring a redesigned front grille, improved interior materials, and enhanced safety features like standard side curtain airbags. This specific RAV4 Limited, with its three-owner history, clean Carfax, and 25 service records, exemplifies the generation’s legacy of reliability and practicality, making it a sought-after choice for buyers valuing efficiency and durability in a compact package.
Performance, Fuel Economy, and Torque Ratings
The 2009 Toyota RAV4 Limited 2WD is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine with Dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i), producing 179 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 172 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. Paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, it offers smooth and responsive performance, achieving a 0-60 mph time of around 9 seconds—adequate for its class, as noted in historical Edmunds reviews. Fuel economy is rated at 22 MPG city and 28 MPG highway, with a combined 24 MPG, making it one of the more efficient compact SUVs of its era, particularly in 2WD configuration. The 15.9-gallon fuel tank provides a decent range for daily driving or light trips. The RAV4 Limited can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped, suitable for light loads like small trailers or jet skis—a capability that enhances its utility, though it’s less than V6 models. These figures showcase its balance of efficiency and performance, ideal for urban commuters or small families needing a fuel-sipping daily driver.
NHTSA Safety Ratings
Safety is a key strength of the 2009 Toyota RAV4, as reflected in its National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) ratings for the 2WD model:
- Overall Vehicle Score: Not rated (NHTSA began overall ratings in 2011).
- Frontal Crash (Driver): ★★★★★
- Frontal Crash (Passenger): ★★★★☆
- Side Crash (Front Occupants): ★★★★★
- Side Crash (Rear Occupants): ★★★★★
- Rollover: ★★★★☆
Equipped with six airbags (front, side, and side curtain for both rows), anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system, the RAV4 earns top marks for side crash protection and a strong 5-star driver frontal rating. The 4-star rollover rating reflects its higher center of gravity, typical for SUVs, but its robust construction provides confidence for family use. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named it a 2009 Top Safety Pick, earning “Good” ratings in frontal and side-impact tests, affirming its safety credentials for the time.
Standout Features & Performance Comparison
The 2009 Toyota RAV4 Limited 2WD offers a premium suite of features, blending luxury with practicality, making it a standout in the compact SUV category. The ash leather interior is plush and durable, paired with the classic silver exterior for a sophisticated look. Key features include heated front seats, a power driver’s seat with lumbar support, a power moonroof, a 6-speaker premium audio system with a 6-disc CD changer, Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, and a power rear liftgate. Cargo space expands from 36.4 cubic feet (behind the second row) to 73 cubic feet (seats folded), ideal for family trips or errands. In the luxury mid-size SUV category (though RAV4 is compact, it competed in the premium segment), the RAV4 Limited’s performance stacks up well against competitors like the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Hyundai Tucson. The RAV4’s 179 hp four-cylinder offers a balanced ride, matching the CR-V’s 180 hp but surpassing the Escape’s 171 hp base and Tucson’s 165 hp, with a smoother handling than the Escape’s rougher suspension. The RAV4’s fuel economy (22/28 MPG) outperformed the CR-V (21/27 MPG) and Escape (21/28 MPG with the 2.5L I4) and was close to the Tucson’s 22/31 MPG. The RAV4 excelled in interior space (73 cubic feet cargo) compared to the CR-V (72.9 cubic feet) and Escape (67.2 cubic feet), while its upscale features and quiet cabin outshone the Tucson’s basic interior. The RAV4’s combination of efficiency, reliability, and practicality made it a top choice, often outranking competitors in owner satisfaction surveys from that era.Popularity and Reliability of the 2.5L 4-CylinderThe 2.5L 4-cylinder engine is a cornerstone of the 2009 Toyota RAV4’s popularity, featuring a metal timing chain that never needs replacement—unlike a rubber timing belt requiring service every 90,000–100,000 miles (a $500–$800 cost)—saving significant maintenance expenses. This engine, producing 179 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque, is known for its durability, often lasting 200,000–300,000 miles with proper care, as reported by owners on forums like RAV4World. The RAV4’s overall reliability is legendary, with the third-generation model earning a 4.6/5 rating on Cars.com for dependability, outpacing competitors and contributing to its status as Toyota’s best-selling SUV. The metal timing chain, a key feature of this engine, eliminates a common maintenance headache, and the RAV4’s robust unibody construction enhances its longevity, with many owners reporting 250,000 miles with routine maintenance. This durability, combined with low ownership costs, makes the RAV4 a highly popular choice for long-term use..
Essentials
- Mileage: 172,000 miles—moderate for a 2009 model, with potential for many more.
- Ownership: Three owners with a clean Carfax and no accidents.
- Service History: 25 service records showing consistent maintenance.
- Condition: Clean CA title, classic silver exterior, and ash leather interior in great shape.
- Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder with 179 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque, metal timing chain.
- Transmission: 4-speed automatic for smooth, efficient driving.
- Safety: NHTSA 5-star driver frontal and side ratings (★★★★★), 4-star passenger frontal (★★★★☆).
- Fuel Economy: 22 MPG city / 28 MPG highway, 24 MPG combined—excellent for its class.
- Features: Leather interior, moonroof, premium audio, and power seats for luxury.
- Reliability: Proven 2.5L engine with low maintenance and durability beyond 200,000 miles.
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Why This Rav4 Stands Out
This 2009 Toyota RAV4 Limited 4-Cylinder 2WD is a standout with its moderate 172,000 miles, three-owner history, and clean CA title, reflecting diligent care backed by 25 service records and a clean Carfax with no accidents. The classic silver finish and ash leather interior offer a luxurious, family-friendly package, and the Limited trim’s features—like heated leather seats, a moonroof, and premium audio—elevate it above the base model’s cloth seats and the Sport’s sportier focus. The 2.5L 4-cylinder with a metal timing chain ensures reliability and low maintenance costs, with a track record of lasting 200,000–300,000 miles, as noted in Consumer Reports. As the third generation, this 2009 RAV4 is part of a highly popular era known for its compact size, durability, and efficiency, making it a compelling choice for buyers seeking a long-lasting, upscale SUV.
For a prospective buyer craving a compact SUV with luxury, reliability, and a well-documented history, this 2009 Toyota RAV4 Limited 4-Cylinder 2WD is a perfect match. Its moderate mileage, extensive service history, and top NHTSA safety ratings make it a trustworthy companion, while the Limited trim’s upscale features and efficient 2.5L engine enhance its appeal. Whether you’re drawn to its smooth performance, spacious interior, or the third generation’s enduring design, this RAV4 delivers. It’s a testament to the RAV4’s popularity—reliable, versatile, and built to last. Take it for a test drive to experience why this 2009 model remains a beloved choice over a decade and a half later, ready to serve its next owner with the same dependability it’s always offered.
2009 Toyota RAV4 limited
4 cyl -JTMZF31V095011596
| VINJTMZF31V095011596 | MakeToyota | ModelRAV4 | Year2009 | TrimLimited I4 2WD |
| Style/BodySPORT UTILITY 4-DR | Engine2.4L L4 DOHC 16V | Manufactured inTahara, Japan | Age16 years | |
| Transmission4-Speed Automatic | VIN ValidationCheck Digit is Correct | History DataRecords Found |
Basic
| Model Year | 2009 |
|---|---|
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | RAV4 |
| Trim Level | Limited I4 2WD |
| Manufactured in | Tahara, Japan |
| Body Style | SPORT UTILITY 4-DR |
Drivetrain
| Engine Type | 2.4L L4 DOHC 16V |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Driveline | FWD |
Seating
| Standard Seating | 5 |
|---|---|
| Optional Seating | 7 |
Fuel
| Tank | 15.90 |
|---|---|
| Fuel Economy City | 22 |
| Fuel Economy Highway | 28 |
| Fuel Type | GAS |
Braking
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
|---|---|
| Front Brake Type | Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Disc |
| ABS Brakes | Standard |
Wheels and Tires
| Tires | 225/65R17 |
|---|---|
| Steel Wheels | N/A |
Weight
| Standard Towing | 1500 |
|---|---|
| Maximum Towing | 1500 |
| Standard Payload | 1059 |
| Maximum Payload | 1359 |
| Standard GVWR | 4430 |
| Maximum GVWR | 4730 |
Dimensions
| Turning Diameter | 34.80 |
|---|---|
| Front Headroom | 40.80 |
| Rear Headroom | 39.70 |
| Front Legroom | 41.80 |
| Rear Legroom | 38.30 |
| Front Shoulder Room | 57.10 |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 55.30 |
| Front Hip Room | 53.80 |
| Rear Hip Room | 52.40 |
| Overall Length | 181.10 |
| Overall Width | 71.50 |
| Overall Height | 68.70 |
| Wheelbase | 104.70 |
| Track Front | 61.40 |
Suspension
| Front Suspension | Ind |
|---|---|
| Rear Suspension | Ind |
| Front Spring Type | Coil |
| Rear Spring Type | Coil |
Comfort
| Air Conditioning | Standard |
|---|
Safety
| Child Safety Door Locks | Standard |
|---|---|
| Driver Airbag | Standard |
| Front Side Airbag | Standard |
| Passenger Airbag | Standard |
| Keyless Entry | Standard |
Pricing
| MSRP | $24,490 |
|---|---|
| Dealer Invoice | $22,896 |
| Destination Charge | $745 |
Lighting
| Automatic Headlights | Standard |
|---|---|
| Daytime Running Lights | Optional |
| Fog Lights | Standard |
Feature
| Cruise Control | Standard |
|---|---|
| Heated Steering Wheel | N/A |
| Leather Steering Wheel | Standard |
Colors
| Interior Trim |
Ash Cloth Interior Ash Leather Interior Sand Beige Cloth Interior Sand Beige Leather Interior |
|---|---|
| Exterior Color |
Barcelona Red Metallic Black Black Forest Pearl Blizzard White Pearl Classic Silver Metallic Pacific Blue Metallic Pyrite Mica Sandy Beach Metallic |
Fuel Efficiency Rating
- City: 22
- Highway: 28
Actual rating will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle condition.
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