2010 Toyota Venza: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2010 Toyota Venza sees no major changes following its debut for the 2009 model year. This 4-door, 5-passenger wagon slots between the Camry sedan and Highlander crossover SUV in size and price. It shares some of its basic design with both those vehicles. Venza continues in a single trim level, with a choice of two engines and front- or all-wheel drive. The base engine is a 182-horsepower 2.7-liter 4-cylinder. Also offered is a 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. Each engine teams with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Four-cylinder models can tow up to 2,500 pounds, and the V6 up to 3,500 pounds. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags. Four-cylinder models have standard 19-inch wheels, while V6 versions have standard 20-inch wheels. A navigation system, keyless entry/engine start, leather upholstery, and heated front seats are among the options. A panoramic glass roof with power front section and DVD entertainment are on the options list, but both features can't be paired together. This report is based on evaluations of the 2009 Toyota Venza.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to 8-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buy choices are the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, and Mazda CX-9. Our Recommended picks are the Chevrolet Equinox, Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, GMC Terrain, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Equinox, GMC Terrain, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-7, Mazda CX-9, and Toyota 4Runner.