Detroit Auto Show. January 2008. It’s the end of the day, and Toyota is getting ready to put an end to several weeks of suspense over the unveiling of the future Venza. No one really knows what to expect. And our anticipation has reached new heights, because for one of the few times in the industry, no photos have been available prior to the official launch.
Unsurprisingly, all journalists present wondered what in the world they were dealing with. Was this a Toyota? Really? No one could clearly define the vehicle’s type, not even Toyota itself. After the initial incredulity, all agreed that the overall look was a success.
Though the more pessimistic among us couldn’t help but draw a parallel with the AMC Eagle Wagon of the 1980s. However, no one questioned the probability that this strange-looking newcomer would be a sales success story.
The Venza and I
Despite the fact that the unveiling took place two years ago, when I see the Venza today I still have to wonder exactly what it is.
Looking like an overgrown wagon, its massive profile, low roofline and enormous 20-inch wheels deepen the impression of stockiness. You can’t help but appreciate the finely detailed body, though. “Well, I like it. It’s different, but I like it!”
Scrutinizing the Venza, I came to the conclusion that the vehicle is a well-executed blend of SUV and station wagon. Thankfully, Toyota’s engineers managed to perfectly combine the advantages of both classes. Cabin access is easy and there’s lots of space inside, remarkably so in the back.
The dash board does take you somewhat by surprise at first, but the advantages of its layout quickly become apparent. The shifter of the 6-speed, semi-automatic transmission is positioned considerably higher than average. However, it proves very ergonomic while freeing up lots of space for storage.
The rest of the cabin is rather sensible, humdrum even. The impression of quality does hide the fact that the interior sports a lot of plastic that doesn’t measure up to the brand’s standard. To my astonishment, I found the Venza’s finish to be disappointing.
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| The Toyota Venza V6 AWD starts at $32,050. |
Unsurprisingly, all journalists present wondered what in the world they were dealing with. Was this a Toyota? Really? No one could clearly define the vehicle’s type, not even Toyota itself. After the initial incredulity, all agreed that the overall look was a success.
Though the more pessimistic among us couldn’t help but draw a parallel with the AMC Eagle Wagon of the 1980s. However, no one questioned the probability that this strange-looking newcomer would be a sales success story.
The Venza and I
Despite the fact that the unveiling took place two years ago, when I see the Venza today I still have to wonder exactly what it is.
Looking like an overgrown wagon, its massive profile, low roofline and enormous 20-inch wheels deepen the impression of stockiness. You can’t help but appreciate the finely detailed body, though. “Well, I like it. It’s different, but I like it!”
Scrutinizing the Venza, I came to the conclusion that the vehicle is a well-executed blend of SUV and station wagon. Thankfully, Toyota’s engineers managed to perfectly combine the advantages of both classes. Cabin access is easy and there’s lots of space inside, remarkably so in the back.
The dash board does take you somewhat by surprise at first, but the advantages of its layout quickly become apparent. The shifter of the 6-speed, semi-automatic transmission is positioned considerably higher than average. However, it proves very ergonomic while freeing up lots of space for storage.
The rest of the cabin is rather sensible, humdrum even. The impression of quality does hide the fact that the interior sports a lot of plastic that doesn’t measure up to the brand’s standard. To my astonishment, I found the Venza’s finish to be disappointing.
 |
| The dash board does take you somewhat by surprise at first, but the advantages of its layout quickly become apparent. |