New engine supplies decent performance
Power from the big 4-banger is more than adequate for this application. It comes on smoothly and manages to competently propel the weighty Venza. The quick-shifting transmission makes effective use of its half-dozen cogs in squeezing out the best the engine has to offer.
For the most part, the powerplant is tame and unobtrusive however when pushed it becomes quite audibly evident. In the course of normal driving though, the Venza is refined and pleasant.
Safety to the max
To their credit, Toyota didn’t scrimp on supplying a full suite of safety and occupant protection as standard Venza equipment. The list includes front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags and a driver knee-airbag, and in addition, the Active front head restraints provide whiplash protection.
A Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) program is also standard as is traction control and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC).
Value equation includes fuel efficiency
It’s difficult to take issue with the Venza’s modest base price once all of its merits are accounted for, one of which is appealing fuel economy. The 4-cylinder Venza is rated at 10.0L and 6.8L/100km city and highway driving respectively.
My onboard computer revealed an efficiency of 11.1L/100km during city driving. The discrepancy is minimal, and may be attributable to my less than frugal driving style and the fact that my tester had few kilometres on the clock.
After a decent break-in period, I would bet a king’s ransom on improved fuel economy. Of course, I haven’t sent any casinos into bankruptcy of late so take it for what it’s worth.
Wrap
The Venza is an interesting exercise in automotive diversity that offers plenty of room, versatility, practicality and value. It shouldn’t be overlooked by fence sitters unsure of whether a crossover, SUV or wagon will properly address their needs.
photo:Rob Rothwell
Power from the big 4-banger is more than adequate for this application. It comes on smoothly and manages to competently propel the weighty Venza. The quick-shifting transmission makes effective use of its half-dozen cogs in squeezing out the best the engine has to offer.
For the most part, the powerplant is tame and unobtrusive however when pushed it becomes quite audibly evident. In the course of normal driving though, the Venza is refined and pleasant.
Safety to the max
To their credit, Toyota didn’t scrimp on supplying a full suite of safety and occupant protection as standard Venza equipment. The list includes front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags and a driver knee-airbag, and in addition, the Active front head restraints provide whiplash protection.
A Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) program is also standard as is traction control and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC).
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| The Venza is an interesting exercise in automotive diversity that offers plenty of room, versatility, practicality and value. |
Value equation includes fuel efficiency
It’s difficult to take issue with the Venza’s modest base price once all of its merits are accounted for, one of which is appealing fuel economy. The 4-cylinder Venza is rated at 10.0L and 6.8L/100km city and highway driving respectively.
My onboard computer revealed an efficiency of 11.1L/100km during city driving. The discrepancy is minimal, and may be attributable to my less than frugal driving style and the fact that my tester had few kilometres on the clock.
After a decent break-in period, I would bet a king’s ransom on improved fuel economy. Of course, I haven’t sent any casinos into bankruptcy of late so take it for what it’s worth.
Wrap
The Venza is an interesting exercise in automotive diversity that offers plenty of room, versatility, practicality and value. It shouldn’t be overlooked by fence sitters unsure of whether a crossover, SUV or wagon will properly address their needs.
photo:Rob Rothwell
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