2009 Toyota Venza: More Than Meets the Eye
The crossover category continues to grow in number and expand the definition. While the 2009 Venza Toyota Camry car may seem at first glance, Toyota says it is not. We, in Automedia took the all-new Venza for well rounded and test drive-came up with some conclusions of our own. So what is the new Venza?
Sitting on the Camry platform-109.3-in wheelbase, is slightly shorter but 3.3 inches wider and 5.5 inches taller. Its 70.1 cu. feet of the EPA-spec cargo volume and 108 cu. square of the total passenger volume are far greater than the Camry still far from Cu 95.4 and 145.7 in the Highlands more utilitarian. ft. Its closest competitor is probably Nissan Murano style.
The exterior opens with a bold run by a distinctive grille, headlights and lights standard fog. The body shape is streamlined, with short overhangs, sweeping forward pillars, crisp character lines and a roofline low. The rear is dominated by an angled rear hatch and topped with a functional spoiler and wide wraparound tail lights that connect to the hatch. Fenders widened large wheel openings and a standard 19-in. wheels and tires (20-in. V-6 models) to provide an aggressive, seeking safe passage.
Inside, Venza standard "Optitron" speedometer and tachometer and multi-colored instrument panel can be decorated with satin mahogany available in false Qtr. The standard automatic dual-zone climate control are centered at the top of the console within easy reach. Utility charge increases by the standard 60/40 split rear seats, with a touch lever and a canvas top.
Venza will be offered in one grade, with a choice of front and in the four wheels and eight parcels of option-Tow Prep, safety, convenience, Lighting, Leather, Premium Comfort and two packets and only four separate options. These are the premium JBL audio, navigation, power tilt / slide panoramic glass roof with a separate fixed glass panel in the rear seats, and the rear seat DVD entertainment with a nine-inch display, JBL Synthesis surround, two wireless headphones, remote control, a mini-jack auxiliary, a 120-volt and mini-RCA jacks. An industry first is a multi-information display with adjustable font size and content and the navigation system is fluent in English, Spanish and French.
The standard system includes six speakers six-disc in-dash CD changer, satellite radio and capacity MP3/WMA playback. The optional JBL Synthesis 13 speaker surround sound system adds Bluetooth hands-free cell phone capability or without voice-activated, touch screen DVD navigation that add streaming music and XM NavTraffic.
Among the key features are standard glass Venza Privacy on the roof of XM Satellite Radio antenna, a tilt / telescoping steering wheel with integrated audio controls and Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC), which temporarily applies the brakes on steep uphill to ensure easy access from non-reversal. The adjustable center console has a sliding cover and armrests, three starters MP3 player with features of concealment of cables and a large storage compartment, and the tailgate has an easy-close (or available energy cinch) function.
Toyota Venza is the first "car" with the standard Star Safety System, which includes ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), increased Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC) with a cutoff switch and Brake Assist, which supplements the braking power in emergency situations. Also included are seven front airbags, front safety, roll-sensing side curtain bag and driver's knee and active front headrests.
The standard engine, a new 182-horsepower DOHC 16-valve 2.7-liter four with VVT-i (intelligent synchronization variable valve), which offers more than acceptable performance at light loads and an estimated 21 mpg city and 29 highway with front wheel drive (FWD), one less mpg with AWD. For towing (3,500 pounds), heavier loading and / or the satisfaction of performance uphill, you might want opt for the stronger 268-hp, DOHC 24-valve 3.5-liter V6, which is good for 19 EPA city and 26 mpg highway with front wheel drive, or less mpg with AWD. Whether through a six-unit speed electronically controlled sequential shift automatic transmission that matches gear selection to the conditions and gives the engine braking on downhill moderate slopes. The AWD available assets Torque Control optimizes torque distribution between front and rear wheels.
Venza is all good for a Camry, But even with more space and visibility. Suspension is MacPherson struts with stabilizer bars front and rear transmits, comfortable ride quality, while your email address power management makes almost no effort. The 2009 Toyota Venza takes the best of most categories of vehicles and amplifies their best qualities in an elegant package.
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