Flexible and car-like
A motorized tailgate opens onto a reasonably sized cargo area, and of course, rear seats fold down to accommodate larger items. Venza isn't as roomy as a crossover SUV, but it's very flexible and accommodating nonetheless.
Entry and exit to the cabin are easy, requiring drivers to actually sit down into their seat rather than climbing in. The driving position is low and car like, too.
Complaints include a few low-budget trim pieces inside, higher-than-expected wind and road noise, and poor visibility at the rear corners due to the Venza's roofline.
3.5 All Wheel Drive
Under the hood, the tester came with a 3.5 liter, 268 horsepower V6 hooked up to a six speed automatic transmission with manual mode. The V6 moves the Venza along discreetly and in a surprising hurry when drivers push it. It's got more power than most will need, and it's an ideal engine for those seeking a light-to-light sleeper or very generous reserves of passing power.
Fuel consumption averaged about 11L / 100km on my watch, and a new 2.7 liter, 189 horsepower four cylinder is available as a less potent engine option. AWD is available with either engine.
Drivers may note more fuss-free traction in a comparable AWD Subaru or Audi product, as Venza's setup can allow plenty of front-wheel slippage and torque steer before the traction control or rear wheels engage. In this application, AWD will prove a bad-weather stability aid than a performance enhancement.
That's fitting, as Venza's handling and suspension are set up more for comfort than sportiness. There's nothing exceptionally exciting in terms of handling dynamics, though brakes are powerful, the ride is refined and comfortable, and a solid and well-bolted-down driving feel is conveyed.
To Venza or not to Venza
End of the day, you'll likely find the Venza a nicely styled, comfortable and flexible hauler with a welcomed touch of sophistication and power. Though muscular with V6 power, it's not going to set the driving enthusiast's soul ablaze- though it's arguably an ideal upgrade from a sedan or downgrade out of an SUV or minivan.
photo:Justin Pritchard
A motorized tailgate opens onto a reasonably sized cargo area, and of course, rear seats fold down to accommodate larger items. Venza isn't as roomy as a crossover SUV, but it's very flexible and accommodating nonetheless.
 |
| A motorized tailgate opens onto a reasonably sized cargo area. |
Entry and exit to the cabin are easy, requiring drivers to actually sit down into their seat rather than climbing in. The driving position is low and car like, too.
Complaints include a few low-budget trim pieces inside, higher-than-expected wind and road noise, and poor visibility at the rear corners due to the Venza's roofline.
3.5 All Wheel Drive
Under the hood, the tester came with a 3.5 liter, 268 horsepower V6 hooked up to a six speed automatic transmission with manual mode. The V6 moves the Venza along discreetly and in a surprising hurry when drivers push it. It's got more power than most will need, and it's an ideal engine for those seeking a light-to-light sleeper or very generous reserves of passing power.
Fuel consumption averaged about 11L / 100km on my watch, and a new 2.7 liter, 189 horsepower four cylinder is available as a less potent engine option. AWD is available with either engine.
Drivers may note more fuss-free traction in a comparable AWD Subaru or Audi product, as Venza's setup can allow plenty of front-wheel slippage and torque steer before the traction control or rear wheels engage. In this application, AWD will prove a bad-weather stability aid than a performance enhancement.
That's fitting, as Venza's handling and suspension are set up more for comfort than sportiness. There's nothing exceptionally exciting in terms of handling dynamics, though brakes are powerful, the ride is refined and comfortable, and a solid and well-bolted-down driving feel is conveyed.
To Venza or not to Venza
End of the day, you'll likely find the Venza a nicely styled, comfortable and flexible hauler with a welcomed touch of sophistication and power. Though muscular with V6 power, it's not going to set the driving enthusiast's soul ablaze- though it's arguably an ideal upgrade from a sedan or downgrade out of an SUV or minivan.
 |
| End of the day, you'll likely find the Venza a nicely styled, comfortable and flexible hauler. |
photo:Justin Pritchard
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