2009 Toyota RAV4 will start at $21,500 (USA)

2009 Toyota RAV4 will start at $21,500 (USA)

Just like most other car makers, Toyota has officially announced that its slightly refreshed 2009 Toyota RAV4 compact SUV’s average price will be 0.9 percent higher than that of the outgoing model.

In return, the Japanese company will stuff the RAV4 with numerous enhancements, including a new standard Smart Entry system, an integrated backup camera linked to an electrochromic mirror and an XM satellite radio.

2009 Toyota RAV4

The compact SUV, Toyota is reporting in its press release, will be available in three trims — Base, Sport and the range-topping Limited.

All three versions are equipped with either four or a five-speed automatic transmission mated to a standard 2.5-liter, 179hp four-pot or an optional 3.5-liter, 269hp V6 mill.

The 2009 RAV4 offers better fuel economy, too.

The EPA rated the 2.5-liter 4×2 model at 22 city/28 highway (10.7 l/100km and 8.4 l/100km respectively) while the 4×4 version is rated at 21 city/27 highway mpg (11.2 l/100km and 8.71 l/100km respectively).

The RAV4 V6 model, which is rated at 19 city/27 highway for 4×2 models and 19 city/26 highway for 4×4 models, fares not so well in terms of fuel efficiency but provides the car with impressive zero to 60mph acceleration time of sub-7 seconds.

2009 Toyota RAV4 (front view)

2009 Toyota RAV4 (interior)

2009 Toyota RAV4 (interior, center console)

Photos: Toyota

See also: 2009 Chevrolet Traverse crossover SUV