NEW FOR 2015:
– All models receive standard reverse camera, new infotainment system
For 2015, Toyota’s tall Camry-based crossover receives the latest generation of Toyota’s infotainment system. The 6.1-inch display audio system brings Bluetooth audio, satellite radio, automatic sound leveling, a USB audio port and a reverse camera. Other than this, the Venza carries over unchanged.
Sitting smack dab between the bigger, family-oriented Highlander three-row crossover and the pricey but luxe Lexus RX, the Venza offers buyers a more stylish alternative to more upright two-row SUVs. The cabin is well organized with plenty of storage cubbies, and there’s a tremendous amount of rear-seat legroom. When equipped with the optional panoramic sunroof, the cabin feels especially light and airy. Less exciting is the way it drives; it feels somewhat larger than it is and its ride is somewhat stiff, especially on V6 models which come equipped with 20-inch wheels.
Toyota offers the Venza with two powertrains: a naturally aspirated 2.7-litre four-cylinder or a 3.5-litre V6. Both get a six-speed automatic transmission, and both can be had with either front-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive. Few of the Venza’s rivals offer the combination of four-cylinder power and all-wheel drive, other than the Subaru Outback.
The Venza is offered in four variants: Venza, Venza AWD, V6, and V6 AWD.
Features on the Venza include 19-inch alloy wheels, 6.1-inch display audio system with AM/FM/MP3/CD player, satellite radio, auxiliary input jack, dual-zone automatic climate control, cloth upholstery, eight-way power driver seat, 60/40 split rear bench seat, power locks, power windows with auto-up/down, 3.5-inch LCD multi-information display, electroluminescent instrument cluster, auto-dimming rear view mirror with digital compass, tilt/telescopic steering with steering wheel mounted audio controls, woodgrain interior, chrome inner door handles, tonneau cover, cargo mat, cargo net, carpeted and all-season floor mats, cruise control, integrated garage door opener, illuminated entry, keyless entry, dual heated power mirrors, blind spot convex mirrors, rear privacy glass, body colour door handles and mirrors, chrome exhaust, variable intermittent wipers, automatic headlight system, and fog lights.
The Venza V6 adds 20-inch alloy wheels and dual exhaust.
The Heated Cloth Seats Package, available on all trims, includes front heated seats.
The Leather Package, available on all trims, includes heated front seats, and leather upholstery.
The XLE Package, available on Venza, Venza AWD, and V6 AWD includes navigation, heated front seats, leather upholstery, power tailgate, panoramic sunroof, and alarm.
The Limited Package, available on AWD and V6 AWD trims, builds on XLE Package and adds 13-speaker JBL audio system, stitched leather door trim, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, power four-way passenger seat, proximity key with push-button start, HID headlamps, chrome exterior door handles, driver memory system, power folding exterior mirrors with reverse auto-tilt, LED daytime running lights, automatic high beams, and rear parking sensors.
