2009 Toyota Venza AWD V-6 photos
The 2009 Toyota Venza AWD V-6 combines aspects of a large sedan and an SUV on the outside, plus an excellent cabin-tech package and high-quality interior on the inside.
The new Camry?
3.5-liter V-6
Under the hood is Toyota's workhorse 2GR-FE 3.5-liter V-6 engine. This is the same V-6 that can be found under the hood of the current Toyota Camry, the 2010 Lexus RX, and surprisingly, the Lotus Evora.
Surprisingly, the engine still feels peppy despite the Venza's increased weight.
Exactly how big is this thing?
Low step-in height
20-inch wheels
Standard on the V-6 Venza are these 20-inch wheels. Wheels this large play tricks on the eye, making the body of the vehicle seem smaller by comparison.
Four-cylinder equipped Venzas step down to 19-inch wheels, which are still massive.
Lexus RX influence
Out back, the Venza is more SUV-esque, showing the heavy influence of the Lexus RX's sloping rear glass and roof spoiler.
Power rear door
Fold flat seats
Huge cargo space
Well-designed interior
Multifunction display
Odd shifter placement
Cable management
Bluetooth
DVD-based nav
JBL Synthesis
The JBL Synthesis audio system sounds as good as the best Bose and Sony systems from the competition.
Available audio sources include AM/FM/Sirius satellite radio, the aforementioned Bluetooth audio streaming, a four-disc CD changer with MP3 capability, and a center console-mounted auxiliary input.