Toyota's surprise unveiling at the 2008 Detroit auto show is the Venza, an unusual crossover vehicle that blends five-door fastback style with crossover functionality.
The 2009 model has been engineered in the U.S., at Toyota's facilities in Michigan and California, and will be built alongside the Camry and Avalon sedans at Toyota's sprawling complex in Georgetown, Ky. Both four-cylinder and V-6 versions will be offered, and front-drive and all-wheel-drive models are planned.
The engine offerings include a 268-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 and a 2.7-liter four-cylinder with an undisclosed amount of horsepower. Both will be teamed to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The Venza takes a basic sedan stance and applies some sport-ute and crossover cues, Toyota explains in trying to quantify what the Venza is. From some angles, it seems similar to Mazda's former 6 fastback; from others it bears a passing resemblance to Toyota's own Lexus RX crossover. The big grille speaks of SUV cues underneath, like all-wheel drive and useful cargo space. Inside the Venza has crossover proportions, with a higher seating position and lower sills for easy entry and exit. With the upsizing of the Toyota Highlander crossover, the Venza occupies the niche left behind, for roughly a Ford Edge-sized vehicle.
The five-passenger, two-row cabin also has levers on the second-row seats that enable them to fold flat for storing surfboards and skis, Toyota adds. The rear seats also recline 14 degrees. The dash has plenty of storage bins, including one for MP3 players, and illuminated dual cupholders. Standard equipment on the Venza will include a six-disc CD changer, a telescoping steering wheel, a rear wiper and remote keyless entry. V-6 models will ride on 20-inch wheels, and leather and woodgrain trim will be available for the cabin, as will a panoramic glass sunroof, navigation system, Bluetooth, satellite radio and JBL audio.
2009 Toyota Venza |
Seven airbags, including a driver-side knee bag, will be standard. So will anti-lock brakes, traction and stability control, and active head restraints.
The Venza goes on sale late in 2008.
Overall Length: 189.0 in Overall Width: 75.0 Overall Height: 63.4 Wheelbase: 109.3 Ground clearance: 8.1 Wheels: 19-inch alloy wheels (four-cylinder only); 20-inch alloy wheels (standard on V6 and available on four- cylinder) Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs. (V6 model)
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