2009 Toyota Venza Review

Specifications

Rarely do we recommend buying the first year a new model as there are almost always problems that need to be ironed out. Well, Toyota never ceases to impress and the new Venza is the exception to our rule.

The Venza is a true crossover. It has the comfort, handling and ride of a five-passenger sedan mixed with the utility of an SUV. It was designed and engineered in the US specifically for the North American market so it offers larger dimensions and a more powerful engine then if it was built for worldwide distribution. Toyota’s Calty design studios in Newport Beach, California are responsible for the sleek exterior styling while the Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan engineered the rest. The Venza is in production at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky in Georgetown.

Based on the large sedan classed Avalon platform, Toyota wanted the Venza to have car-like looks versus the typical SUV styling of most crossovers. The Venza offers the easily accessible interior and extra cargo space of the SUV along with a wide stance and sporty exterior. The ride is upright although not as high as similarly classed vehicles. Similar lines to the Dodge Magnum, the new vehicle is in fact a station wagon from the side but we dare you to say that with any seriousness.

The Venza will be available with two engine choices and eventually in an all wheel drive model as well as a possible hybrid. The 2.7-Liter DOHC 16-valve Dual VVT-I 4 cylinder engine is new to the Toyota line up. It offers 170 horsepower. The 3.5-Liter DOHC 24-valve Dual VVT-i 6 cylinder engine produces 268 horsepower and can be found in the RAV4, Sienna and Highlander where it offers 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The V6 model will come standard with 20-inch alloy wheels while the four-cylinder will have the choice of the smaller 19-inch wheels.

Toyota has included seven airbags including one at the driver’s knees and active front headrests. Other safety features include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist and the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS). Safety ratings for the Venza should be high, typical of Toyota’s attention to detail.

Standard features will include an AM/FM 6-disc in-dash CD changer with integrated satellite radio receiver, MP3/WMA playback capability with nine speakers. The CFC-free dual zone automatic climate control with air filtration and vents for second-row seats, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel with integrated audio controls, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, HomeLink® universal transceiver, tonneau cover and cruise control make for a well-equipped base model.

Optional equipment will include a panoramic glass roof with tilt and slide functions, a voice-activated DVD navigation system with JBL® AM/FM 4-disc in-dash CD changer, integrated satellite radio receiver, XM NavTraffic,® MP3/WMA playback capability, hands-free phone capability via Bluetooth® wireless technology and thirteen speakers. Or, there is the simpler JBL® AM/FM 6-disc in-dash CD changer with integrated satellite radio receiver, MP3/WMA playback capability, hands-free phone capability via Bluetooth® wireless technology with the same thirteen speakers. For the backseat, there is an optional rear-seat DVD entertainment system with 9-inch display and two wireless headphones11 (includes 115V power outlet and RCA jacks). Other options include Toyota’s Smart Key System with Push Button Start and a rear backup camera.

Keep your eyes on the Venza - big things are going to come of this crossover!