The 2012 Toyota Venza is hyped to be a car cum sports utility vehicle which will give passengers the right kind of alternative to the traditional and old Sedan. It is a five seat vehicle which comes in two engine options.
Engine
One is a 182 HP, 2.7 liter, four-cylinder and the other a 268 HP, 3.5 liter, V6. Both come equipped with a six speed auto transmission sequential shift control. The car comes in front-wheel and four wheel drive versions. The previous version of the Venza, the new model holds little difference from its predecessors. However, the 2012 model comes in three different trims.
Trims
The three trims of the new Venza was designed specifically for the U.S market. There is the LE, XLE and the Limited versions that are available. The LE and the XLE models are available in both the power options mentioned above. You can also have them with the FWD or all wheel drive versions.
However, the Limited Edition model is only available with the V6 engine. However, you can have them in front wheel or all-wheel drive configurations. If you are interested in gadgets, the Venza has an array of options including satellite navigation, climate control, power windows, cruise control, air bags and head restraints.
Interior
The 2012 model of the Venza doesn’t have the rugged and rough look of an SUV. However, it does preserve some of the qualities of crossovers. This kind of looks is not something that is new and has already been tried out by several different car manufacturers.
However, the design is refreshingly new and contemporary. In fact, the vehicle is a delightful combination of a sedan and a crossover. It preserves the qualities offered by SUVs and Sedans. It presents itself as a family vehicle and at the same time acts occasionally as an off-roader.
Performance
At a first glance, the 2012 version of the Venza isn’t completely about performance. The reviews concerning the performance aspect of this vehicle doesn’t look that bright, with the vehicle providing just the adequate power suited for a family ride. This has been the case with both the front wheel and four wheel drives.
It seems that the off-road look of this vehicle can be deceptive. With no power at all, climbing hills or driving with a full load seems a little bit out of the question with the new Venza. The interior makes up for its performance drawbacks. The seats provide the right comfort and you have all the essential gismos.
Overall, the Toyota Venza 2012 looks more like a sleek and stylish racing car but performs nothing more than a minivan. However, when it comes to the aspect of comfort, it seems to score some extra points over certain other cars in the market.
The roofline is adequately tall which enables for an upright driving, with enough headroom available. The basic difference, however, is the allocation of three graded versions of the vehicle, which sadly is restricted to the U.S markets.
Competition
The crossover market is limited and there are few who dare enter the fray, along with the Venza, the Ford Edge (MSRP $31,905; 19 city / 27 hwy) and the Nissan Murano (MSRP $30,365; 18 city / 24 hwy) to offer people.
Overall Rating
73 out of 100
What others say:
“The 2012 Toyota Venza isn’t pulse-raising, but its smooth styling and calming, practical, comfortable interior provide just what some families or empty-nesters want.”Car Connection
“Venza is not quite as car-like as a Honda Accord Crosstour or Subaru Outback, but this Toyota never feels ponderous. It is competent and controlled in most every situation, but tight, fast turns make for pronounced body lean. Steering feel is good, though testers are divided on brake feel. Some say it’s fine, others cite mushy response. All-wheel drive is a plus for slick roads.”Consumer Guide
“The Highlander-based Venza fits in between a station wagon and an SUV. Assets include easy cabin access, a quiet interior, and a roomy rear seat.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“With the 2012 Toyota Venza wagon, Toyota combines some of the best attributes of an SUV with the handling and visual appeal of a sporty sedan. ”KBB
“Spacious interior; powerful and efficient V6; pleasant ride; innovative interior storage; well equipped. The 2012 Toyota Venza is hard to define, but whether you call it a wagon or a crossover, it’s a competitive and comfortable family vehicle.”Edmunds
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Crossover | Base Price: $27,425.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.7 gallons (67 liters) | MPG: 21 city / 27 hwy |
| Length: 189 in. (480 cm) | Wheel Base: 109.3 in. (277.6 cm) |
| Height: 63.4 in. (161 cm) | Width: 75 in. (190.5 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3760 lbs (1705 kg) | Ground Clearance: 8.1 in. (20.5 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 30.7 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 4 Cylinder DOHC w/ VVTi | Displacement: xx Liter cc |
| Horsepower: 182 HP | Max RPM: 5800 RPM |
| Torque: 182 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed ECT-i Automatic |
| Option:LE 4 Cyl. AWD | MSRP: $28,875; MPG: 20 city / 25 hwy |
| Option:XLE 4 Cyl. FWD | MSRP: $29,775; MPG: 21 city / 27 hwy |
| Option:XLE 4 Cyl. AWD | MSRP: $31,225; MPG: 20 city / 25 hwy |
| Option:Limited V6 FWD | MSRP: $36,465; MPG: 19 city / 26 hwy |
| Option:Limited V6 AWD | MSRP: $37,915; MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy |
