The category of crossover vehicles continues to grow in number and expand the definition. While the 2009 Toyota Venza a Camry wagon might seem at first glance, it argues that Toyota is not. AutoMedia took in the new Venza well rounded test and came to some conclusions of our own. So what is the new Venza?
Sitting in the Camry of 109.3-in-wheelbase platform, is slightly shorter but 3.3 inches wider and 5.5 inches taller. Its 70.1 cu. feet of the specifications of the EPA cargo volume and 108 cu. feet of total passenger volumes are much higher than the Camry still very far from the most utilitarian of the Highlander 145.7 and 95.4 cu. Its closest competitor is probably feet Nissan Murano style.
The exterior starts with a bold run by a distinctive grille, headlights and fog lamps standard. The body shape is streamlined, with shorter overhangs front sweeping A-pillars, crisp character lines and a low ceiling. The rear is dominated by an angled rear hatch, and culminates with a large spoiler and functional envelope taillamps that connect to the hatch door. Quemado fenders, wheel openings and large standard 19-in. wheels and tires (20-in. on the V-6 models) to provide an aggressive, sure-footed look.
Inside, the Venza level "Optitron" speedometer and tachometer and multi-color instrument panel can be decorated with imitation mahogany satin available for cutting wood. The standard dual-zone automatic climate control system is central to the top of the console for easy access. Load utility is enhanced by standard 60/40 folding rear seats, with a touch of levers, and a tonneau cover.
Venza will be offered in a single degree with an option of first and all-wheel drive and eight-option packages Estopa preparation, safety, convenience, lighting, Leather, Comfort Package and Premium two-and only four independent options . These are the premium JBL audio, navigation, power tilt / pan ceiling glass slide with a fixed glass panel in the rear seats and rear-seat DVD entertainment with a nine-inch screen, JBL Synthesis surround sound, two wireless headphones, a remote, an auxiliary mini-jack, 120 watts and a mini-RCA jacks. An industry first is a multi-information display with adjustable font size and content, and the navigation system is fluent in English, Spanish and French.
The standard six speaker audio system includes a six-disc in-dash CD changer, satellite radio and MP3/WMA playback capability. The optional 13-speaker JBL Synthesis adds surround sound system with Bluetooth hands-free cell phone capability or without the active voice, touch screen DVD navigation, adding music and XM NavTraffic.
Among the Venza's key features are the standard privacy glass, roof-mounted antenna for XM Satellite Radio, a tilt / telescoping steering wheel with integrated audio controls and Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC), which temporarily applies brakes on slopes up to facilitate the start of no return. The center console has adjustable armrests and a slide, three owners of MP3 player functions concealment of wire and a large storage compartment, and the rear hatch is easy to close (or available energy Cinch) function.
Toyota Venza is the first "car" with the star of the security system, which includes ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), increased vehicle stability control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), with a switch Cut and Brake Assist, which supplements the braking power in emergency situations. It also includes seven airbags, front, side front seat, roll-sensing side curtains and a knee bag for the driver and front active headrests.
The standard engine, a new 182-hp 16-valve, DOHC 2.7-Liter four dual VVT-i (variable valve timing intelligent), provides more than acceptable performance at light loads, and an estimated 21 mpg city and 29 the highway with front wheel drive (FWD), less mpg with AWD. For towing (up to 3500 pounds), weight of cargo and / or the satisfaction of the results upwards, you may want to opt for the stronger 268-hp DOHC 24-valve 3.5-liter V6, which is good for 19 mpg city and 26 highway EPA FWD or less mpg with AWD. Both drive through a six-speed sequential changes electronically controlled automatic transmission that satisfies the selection of art and gives clues to moderate engine braking on downhill. The available AWD Active Control optimizes torque distribution between front and rear wheels.
The Venza suspension-MacPherson struts with stabilizer bars front and rear offers relatively nimble handling with surprisingly comfortable. The e-mail address (EPS), while minimizing the effort of delivery are reasonably good. In short, the units more or less like a workshop, Roomies Camry. And much better, we believe that Toyota bigger, heavier, more truck-like Highlander.
Former automotive engineer, Gary Witzenburg has been written about the automotive industry, its people and products for over 20 years providing quality content to the major automotive magazines, newspapers and websites. Reviews its popular car like this 2009 Toyota Venza, as well as comments on other Toyota models, are designed to inform, enlighten and entertain the most discerning automotive enthusiasts.