2009 Toyota Venza 4WD 5-door sedan from the August, 2009 issue
| Reviewed By: | Paul Duchene |
|---|---|
| Price: | $38,224 |
| Likes: | Elegant, sophisticated, but groaning with $10,000 of options, including 4WD, nav, 6-CD player, Sirius, MP3, panoramic moon roof, back-up camera. 265hp V6 delivers 0.60 in 6.7 seconds, 6-speed auto manages 25 mpg highway. Precise steering and handling, excellent brake feel, little road noise. Dual climate controls, all four leather seats recline. Useful 70 cu ft capacity with rear seat down, power rear liftgate. |
| Gripes: | Give me a real “insert” key. Proximity factor of “ignition thing” makes it hard to tell if you locked it. Backup camera a must to compensate for thick C-pillars, small back window. |
| Verdict: | Pretty much a bullseye for a crossover. About 6-inches lower than Highlander; feels much lighter, becomes familiar and useful very quickly. Now build me a 35 mpg hybrid. |
| Fun to Drive: |  |
| Fun to Look at: |  |
| Overall Experience: | |
