The Toyota Venza nestles somewhere between a wagon and a two-row crossover. It's always been best to think of it as a Camry wagon with a set of big wheels and chunky styling. And that's not a terrible equation, because that means one of the most comfortable sedans just got made more practical.
The Venza enters 2015, its sixth model year, with no significant changes.
The Venza comes in three trim levels, each much pricier than the one below -- the top-of-the-line Limited costs almost $11,000 more than the base LE.
The base Venza LE starts off with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with 181 horsepower and mated to a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive an option. Equipment includes 19-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, front fog lights, dual-zone automatic climate control, a backup camera, trip computer, 8-way power driver's seat, split-folding and reclining rear seat, remote keyless entry, a six-speaker audio system with 6.1-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth streaming and Toyota's Entune infotainment system with USB input and iPod connectivity.
The XLE adds useful features such as heated and power-folding outside mirrors, keyless entry and start, a power liftgate, navigation with the Entune App Suite that includes Pandora and Bing, leather upholstery and memory settings for the driver's seat and mirror positions. The XLE V6 adds a 3.5-liter V6 with 268 horsepower, as well as 20-inch alloy wheels. All-wheel drive is available on both engines. The Premium Package adds a panoramic moonroof and a JBL audio system with 13 speakers.
The Limited model comes standard with the V6 engine and all-wheel drive, as well as HID headlamps, LED running lights, a panoramic moonroof 20-inch alloy wheels, 13-speaker JBL audio system and front and rear parking sensors.
All Venzas are well-equipped, but the V6 makes for more effortless cruising and has no meaningful effect on fuel economy, so it's XLE trim you need to go for. The Premium Package is worth it too, to get the big moonroof.
