The name “Venza” might sound like it was generated by an algorithm designed to get lost in search engine results, but don’t let the name fool you. After spending some time with the Toyota Venza, we’ve become surprisingly impressed. Is it a car? Is it an SUV? The Toyota Venza occupies a unique space, blending aspects of both, and in these Toyota Venza Reviews, we’ll delve into what makes this vehicle a compelling, if somewhat unconventional, choice.
Built on the reliable Toyota Camry platform, the Venza presents an interesting proposition. It sits higher than a typical sedan, blurring the lines with the crossover segment. Toyota themselves categorize it as a car on their website, yet it’s often cross-shopped with numerous SUVs. From different angles, the Venza’s identity shifts.
From the front, the Venza bears a resemblance to a Camry that’s been inflated. In fact, its unassuming front fascia might cause it to blend into a lineup of Toyotas almost unnoticed.
In profile, it takes on the appearance of a Highlander with a portion of its cargo area removed. The rear design, however, is distinct, featuring a swooping yet robust aesthetic. Despite these unique elements, the overall design can be perceived as somewhat bland, defying expectations for a vehicle with such distinct features.
Stepping inside, the interior design tells a different story. The cabin embraces the driver and front passenger with a modern and thoughtfully designed layout. It manages to be contemporary without resorting to excessive gimmicks or futuristic clichés. The instrument cluster is clear, large, and uses multiple colors for easy readability. The gear selector emerges from the dashboard, positioning it and the steering wheel in a more driver-centric, almost sporty, manner.
Even for a first-time Venza driver, the controls are intuitively placed and easy to operate. When it comes to personal storage, the Venza is full of surprises. Numerous hidden compartments and storage areas are scattered throughout the cabin, practically guaranteeing that second owners will discover forgotten treasures like flashlights or breath mints.
Notably absent is a cramped third-row seat, a feature that earns the Venza points for passenger comfort. However, the sloping rear roofline, while stylish, does compromise cargo space, reducing it by 12 cubic feet. Despite this, the rear seats are generously proportioned and comfortable, easily accommodating adult passengers without any feeling of confinement.
Our test vehicle was a well-equipped, V6, all-wheel-drive model. Toyota simplifies the buying process with straightforward trim levels. You choose between front-wheel or all-wheel drive and a four-cylinder or six-cylinder engine. Option packages follow a typical menu format, offering value but sometimes leaving you wondering if a better deal could have been found by selecting individual options. Overall, Toyota has made the Venza relatively easier to configure and purchase compared to some of its own models and competitors.
The Venza’s 3.5-liter double overhead cam 24-valve dual VVT-i V6 engine is rated at 268 horsepower and 246 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine is responsive and smooth, although the Venza, in V6 AWD trim, carries about 600 extra pounds compared to a Camry. While acceleration is adequate, the added weight is noticeable. A 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine option was planned for later availability, which would naturally reduce horsepower by about 80 but promised a 20 percent improvement in fuel economy.
The six-speed electronically controlled automatic overdrive transmission with intelligence and sequential shift mode operates seamlessly and efficiently. It’s a competent and unobtrusive partner to the engine. The powertrain’s eagerness might suggest the Venza is sporty, but that’s not its true nature.
In terms of handling, under normal driving conditions, the Venza feels like a substantial wagon riding on 20-inch wheels. It sits lower than typical SUVs and most crossovers, and its center of gravity is lower than a minivan. In emergency maneuvers, it maintains composure, but the vehicle’s weight, around 4,000 pounds, reminds you that a lower stance would enhance agility.
By not creating a more conventional Camry wagon, Toyota seemingly bowed to the misconception that higher ride height equates to greater safety. However, this isn’t necessarily true. A Camry generally handles better, and the Venza’s added height isn’t sufficient to provide a commanding view over larger SUVs like Escalades. It’s a trade-off. Toyota attempts to compensate with electronic safety aids, though their effectiveness has limits.
We did test the electronic safety systems in challenging conditions – a freezing rainstorm. The brakes, equipped with Anti-lock Brake System, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, and Brake Assist, performed exceptionally well. The all-wheel-drive system, traction control, and stability control also performed admirably. The comprehensive safety package effectively prevented any risky driving situations, making the Venza feel reassuringly safe and predictable.
This realization shaped our overall impression of the Venza. It’s not without its compromises, but like a multi-tasking parent, it juggles many roles effectively. It’s a vehicle of compromises: it offers more cargo space than a Camry, parks more easily than a Highlander, projects a more mature image than a RAV4, and is sleeker than a Sienna. It’s not designed for rugged off-road adventures, and that’s perfectly acceptable. The essence of the Venza isn’t about defining what it is, but appreciating what it does. And it does a lot, catering to a broad range of needs and preferences, which, for many, is exactly what they’re looking for in a vehicle. These Toyota Venza reviews highlight its versatility and practical appeal in a crowded market segment.
