Vehicle Overview The all-new Toyota Venza is a large hatchback that has room for up to five people. It’s available with four-cylinder or V-6 power and can have either front- or all-wheel drive. It also has a large helping of standard safety and comfort features. Competitors include the Ford Edge, Mazda CX-7 and Subaru Tribeca. The Venza hits dealerships late in 2008.
Exterior Despite its practical hatchback body style, the Venza manages to look rather stylish in person. Credit the car’s proportions and interesting rear styling, which features swoopy taillights.
The front of the Venza is defined by its large grille, which could easily be at home on an SUV. Nineteen- and 20-inch alloy wheels are available, and V-6 models have twin tailpipes. A two-piece glass roof and a power liftgate are optional.
Interior The Venza’s two rows of seats can be finished in cloth or leather. The 60/40-split rear bench seat features reclining backrests, and the sections can be folded down using levers in the cargo area.
Standard features include dual-zone automatic air conditioning, a six-CD changer, cruise control and a tilt/telescoping multifunction steering wheel. Navigation and backseat entertainment systems are optional.
Under the Hood The base engine in the Venza is a 2.7-liter four-cylinder. The optional 3.5-liter V-6 makes 268 horsepower and 246 pounds-feet of torque.
The sole transmission is a six-speed automatic. When properly equipped, the V-6 version can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Safety The long list of standard safety features includes antilock brakes that incorporate electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, an electronic stability system and active head restraints. The Venza also has side-impact airbags for the front seats, side curtain airbags and a knee airbag for the driver.
The available Automatic High Beam system can determine if there is an oncoming car and switch from high- to low-beam headlights, then back again when the car passes, without driver involvement. A backup camera is optional.
