Toyota Venza Review

It's been decades since midsize wagons were the vehicle of choice for American families. They've long since been replaced by minivans, SUVs and crossovers. The Toyota Venza, however, could be a vehicle to get people buying wagons again.

Fitting neatly between Toyota's small and large crossover SUVs in terms of size, the sleekly styled Venza boasts carlike handling, good fuel economy and plenty of versatility. Though lacking the ruggedness inherent in an SUV or the option for a third-row seat, the Venza is an otherwise ideal choice for families desperate to avoid their minivan fate.

Current Toyota Venza

The Toyota Venza crossover wagon is available with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Engines choices are a 2.7-liter four-cylinder that makes 182 horsepower and 182 pound-feet of torque or a more robust 3.5-liter V6 that cranks out 268 hp and 246 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that features manual shift control. Towing capacity when properly equipped is 3,500 pounds.

The Venza is best described as looking like a beefed-up-wagon, but with lots of smooth, elegant lines to reduce any sense of SUV-ish bulk. Because the Venza is related to Toyota's Camry sedan, it sits relatively low to the ground, which makes it easier for passengers to get in and out. There's seating for up to five people, as no third-row seat is offered. Toyota has built in plenty of storage nooks and crannies to keep things organized, and there are plenty of cupholders, too. Cargo capacity with the rear seats folded down is just north of 70 cubic feet, which should suffice for most families.

The Toyota Venza is not exactly awash in sexy standard features, but there are some nice options, as well as a lineup of packages that sweeten this versatile ride. Standard features on the 2.7-liter Venza include 19-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power driver seat and a reclining and folding 60/40 rear seat. Stability control, antilock brakes and a full complement of airbags are also included. Customers can also opt for xenon headlights, a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, a premium audio system, a navigation system with a back-up camera, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Driving the Venza isn't a sporty experience, but in reviews, we found the steering to be nicely weighted (if short on feel) and body motions well controlled on curvy roads. On the highway, the overall ride is quite comfortable. Both engines provide ample power to move this sizable wagon, although the V6 is obviously the way to go if passing folks on the highway takes precedence over achieving the best fuel economy.

Customers who need to tow trailers or boats may decide to look elsewhere, as might buyers who are in the market for seven-passenger seating. But for just about anyone else who needs to haul kids, pets, scuba gear, golf clubs and other family recreational cargo, the Toyota Venza is an excellent, highly refined choice.

Used Toyota Venza Models

The Toyota Venza debuted for the 2009 model year and has received no major changes since.