2009 Toyota RAV4 Limited AWD 3.5L V6 5-Spd Auto 3rd Gen 161K
The Last Rav4 With The Rocket Ship 269 Horspower V6 & All-Wheel-Drive W/ One-Owner & 42 Service Records!!!
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For buyers seeking a reliable, versatile, and well-maintained compact SUV with a powerful V6 engine and a touch of luxury, this 2009 Toyota RAV4 Limited AWD is an exceptional choice. With 161,000 miles, a single-owner history, and a clean title, this vehicle has been meticulously cared for, as evidenced by its clean Carfax report with 42 service records—a remarkable testament to its upkeep—and minor damage reported that did not affect its structural integrity. Finished in the striking Pyrite Mica with a plush ash leather interior, it combines a bold aesthetic with premium comfort and all-wheel-drive capability. Powered by a 3.5L V6 engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission, this RAV4 Limited delivers exhilarating performance and practicality. As part of the third and final generation to feature the potent V6 powerplant, it holds a unique place in the RAV4 lineup, making it highly desirable among enthusiasts. 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 AWD belongs to the third generation of this pioneering compact crossover, produced from 2006 to 2012. Introduced in late 2005 as a 2006 model, the RAV4 expanded on its original car-based SUV concept, offering increased size, a more rugged design, and the introduction of a V6 engine option, setting it apart in the segment. Assembled in Japan (Tahara and Obu plants) and later in Canada, this generation solidified the RAV4’s reputation as a versatile family vehicle, competing with the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape. The 2009 model year brought a mid-cycle refresh, featuring a redesigned front grille, a more powerful 2.5L four-cylinder (179 hp), and enhanced safety features, while the 3.5L V6 remained a standout option. This specific RAV4, with its single-owner history, 42 service records, and minor reported damage professionally addressed, exemplifies the generation’s legacy of reliability and fun-to-drive performance, making it a sought-after choice for buyers valuing the V6’s unique appeal.
Performance, Fuel Economy, and Torque Ratings
The 2009 Toyota RAV4 Limited AWD is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine (2GR-FE) with Dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i), producing 269 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 246 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm. Paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, it offers spirited performance, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 6.7 seconds with AWD—exceptional for its class, as noted in contemporary reviews. Fuel economy is rated at 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway, with a combined 22 MPG, which is impressive for a V6-powered AWD SUV of its era, though it requires premium unleaded fuel for optimal output. The 15.9-gallon fuel tank provides a decent range for daily driving or light adventures. Equipped with the AWD system and a towing package, this RAV4 can tow up to 3,500 pounds, making it suitable for small trailers or boats—a capability that enhances its versatility, as highlighted by owner feedback. These figures showcase its blend of power, efficiency, and practicality, ideal for enthusiasts and families alike.
Comparison to Competitors in the Compact SUV AWD Segment
In 2009, the compact SUV AWD segment was fiercely competitive, with the RAV4 Limited facing rivals like the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Hyundai Tucson. The RAV4’s 269 hp V6 outpowered the CR-V’s 166 hp four-cylinder, Escape’s 171 hp four-cylinder (base), and Tucson’s 140 hp four-cylinder, offering a performance edge that made it one of the quickest in its class. Fuel economy (19/26 MPG) was competitive with the CR-V (20/27 MPG) and Escape (18/26 MPG), though the V6’s premium fuel requirement slightly offset its efficiency advantage. Cargo space with seats folded (73 cubic feet) matched the CR-V (72.9 cubic feet) and exceeded the Escape (66.3 cubic feet), though it lacked a third row until 2013. The RAV4’s AWD system, with a 50/50 lock feature and downhill assist, outperformed the CR-V’s real-time AWD and Escape’s basic system for off-road light duty, while its car-like handling, derived from a unibody chassis, rivaled the Tucson’s ride quality. Reliability was a standout, with the RAV4 earning a 4.7/5 owner rating (Cars.com), outpacing the CR-V (4.6/5) and Escape (4.3/5), where transmission issues were more common. The establishment narrative often praises the CR-V for refinement, but the RAV4’s V6 power and durability made it a top pick for buyers seeking performance and longevity in the AWD compact SUV segment.NHTSA Safety RatingsSafety is a key strength of the 2009 Toyota RAV4, as reflected in its National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) ratings for the AWD model:
- Overall Vehicle Score: ★★★★☆
- Frontal Crash (Driver): ★★★★★
- Frontal Crash (Passenger): ★★★★☆
- Side Crash (Front Occupants): ★★★★★
- Side Crash (Rear Occupants): ★★★★★
- Rollover: ★★★★☆
Equipped with Toyota’s Star Safety System—including ABS, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), traction control, Brake Assist, and more—plus dual front airbags, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, 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 passenger frontal and rollover ratings reflect its higher center of gravity, typical for SUVs, but its robust construction and optional safety features (e.g., hill-start assist with the V6) provide 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.
Standout Features & Reliability
The 2009 Toyota RAV4 Limited AWD offers a premium suite of features, distinguishing it from the base and Sport trims with its upscale appeal. The ash leather interior is luxurious and durable, paired with the Pyrite Mica exterior for a bold, modern look. Standout features include heated front seats, a 6-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, a power moonroof, a 6-speaker premium audio system with a 6-disc CD changer, dual-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, and a power rear liftgate. The AWD system enhances traction with a 50/50 lock feature, and the Limited trim adds 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, and a chrome-accented grille—upgrades over the base model’s steel wheels and the Sport’s sport-tuned suspension. The optional third-row seat (child-sized) and 60/40 split-folding second row provide flexible seating for up to seven, with cargo space expanding from 12.3 cubic feet (behind the third row) to 73 cubic feet (all seats folded). The 3.5L V6, an upgrade from the 3.3L V6 used in earlier models, features a metal timing chain that never needs replacement—unlike the 3.3L’s timing belt requiring service every 90,000–100,000 miles (a $500–$800 cost)—enhancing reliability and reducing maintenance expenses. Known to last 200,000–300,000 miles with care (per ToyotaNation forums), this engine’s robustness, combined with the RAV4 being the only generation (2006–2012) to offer the V6, makes it highly desirable and extremely fun to drive, offering a spirited experience unmatched in later four-cylinder-only models.
Essentials
- Mileage: 161,000 miles—moderate for a 2009 model, with potential for more with care.
- Ownership: One owner with a clean Carfax; minor damage reported, professionally repaired.
- Service History: 42 service records showing exceptional maintenance.
- Condition: Clean title, Pyrite Mica exterior, and ash leather interior in good shape.
- Engine: 3.5L V6 with 269 hp and 246 lb-ft of torque, featuring a metal timing chain.
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic with AWD for all-weather capability.
- Safety: NHTSA 5-star side and driver frontal ratings (★★★★★), 4-star overall (★★★★☆).
- Fuel Economy: 19 MPG city / 26 MPG highway, 22 MPG combined—solid for a V6 AWD.
- Features: Limited trim with leather seats, moonroof, premium audio, and AWD lock.
- Towing: Up to 3,500 lbs, suitable for light trailers or boats.
Why This Rav4 Stands Out
This 2009 Toyota RAV4 Limited AWD is a rare gem with its moderate 161,000 miles, single-owner history, and clean title, reflecting meticulous care backed by an impressive 42 service records and a clean Carfax, despite minor reported damage that was professionally addressed with no structural issues. The Pyrite Mica finish and ash leather interior offer a luxurious, family-friendly package, elevated by the Limited trim’s heated leather seats, moonroof, and premium audio—features absent in the base model’s cloth seats and the Sport’s sportier focus. The 3.5L V6, the last and only generation to feature this powerful engine (2006–2012), delivers 269 hp and a thrilling drive, enhanced by a metal timing chain that eliminates timing belt replacement costs, with a proven lifespan of 200,000–300,000 miles. The AWD system with a 50/50 lock and downhill assist adds off-road capability, making it a standout in the compact SUV segment. Its third-gen status as the V6 pinnacle, combined with reliability and fun handling, makes this RAV4 a highly desirable choice for buyers seeking a unique, long-lasting SUV.
For a prospective buyer craving a compact SUV with luxury, performance, and a well-documented history, this 2009 Toyota RAV4 Limited AWD is an ideal match. Its moderate mileage, exceptional service history, and top NHTSA safety ratings make it a trustworthy companion, while the Limited trim’s upscale features and potent 3.5L V6—unique to this generation—enhance its appeal. Whether you’re drawn to its spirited V6 performance, versatile AWD system, or the third generation’s pioneering V6 legacy, this RAV4 delivers. It’s a testament to the RAV4’s popularity—reliable, fun, and built to last. Take it for a test drive at 02:22 PM PDT on Thursday, July 3, 2025, 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 excitement and dependability it’s always offered.
2009 Toyota RAV4 limited awd v6
JTMBK31VX95073424
| VINJTMBK31VX95073424 | MakeToyota | ModelRAV4 | Year2009 | TrimLimited V6 4WD |
| Style/BodySPORT UTILITY 4-DR | Engine3.5L V6 DOHC 24V | Manufactured inTahara, Japan | Age16 years | |
| Transmission5-Speed Automatic | VIN ValidationCheck Digit is Correct | History DataRecords Found |
Basic
| Model Year | 2009 |
|---|---|
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | RAV4 |
| Trim Level | Limited V6 4WD |
| Manufactured in | Tahara, Japan |
| Body Style | SPORT UTILITY 4-DR |
Drivetrain
| Engine Type | 3.5L V6 DOHC 24V |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Driveline | 4WD |
Seating
| Standard Seating | 5 |
|---|---|
| Optional Seating | 7 |
Fuel
| Tank | 15.90 |
|---|---|
| Fuel Economy City | 19 |
| Fuel Economy Highway | 26 |
| 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 | 2000 |
|---|---|
| Maximum Towing | 3500 |
| Standard Payload | 1045 |
| Maximum Payload | 1340 |
| Standard GVWR | 4720 |
| Maximum GVWR | 5015 |
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 | $27,810 |
|---|---|
| Dealer Invoice | $25,585 |
| Destination Charge | $745 |
Lighting
| Automatic Headlights | Standard |
|---|---|
| Daytime Running Lights | Optional |
| Fog Lights | Standard |
Features
| 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: 19
- Highway: 26
Actual rating will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle condition.
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