Toyota: Venza News
01-14-2008, 11:02 AM
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Toyota: Venza News
TOYOTA STAGES WORLD DEBUT OF ALL-NEW VENZA AT
2008 NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
DETROIT, January 14, 2008 - - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., unveiled the all-new 2009 Venza crossover sedan at a press conference here today at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). Venza will raise the crossover vehicle to new levels by combining a unique blend of sedan refinement and sport utility vehicle (SUV) functionality.
“The all-new Venza was developed as a vehicle that combines the styling, comfort and fun-to-drive performance elements of a five-passenger sedan with the surprising utility of an SUV,” said Bob Carter, Toyota Division group vice president and general manager. “This winning combination will be ideal for active ‘boomers’ and young couples with small families.”
All aspects of Venza’s engineering and design were targeted specifically for the North American market where it will be sold exclusively. Venza was engineered at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich., and designed at Toyota’s Calty design studios in Newport Beach, Calif. and Ann Arbor, Mich. Venza will be assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK), in Georgetown, Ky.
The development focus of the Venza design team was to create a new crossover vehicle that shifted away from the more traditional SUV styling themes that tend to dominate the segment. Calty designers leaned more heavily on a sleek sedan concept with a wide stance that featured a sporty exterior and premium comfort interior but would also be equipped with important SUV attributes such as cargo space, towing capability and all-wheel-drive performance.
The exterior design of the four-door Venza begins with an imposing front end featuring a distinctive grille, headlights and fog lamps for an aggressive, yet classy appearance. The front conforms to a sleek and aerodynamic shape with short overhangs, crisp character lines and a roofline and ground clearance that are lower than a typical crossover. From behind, Venza’s refined appearance is complete with an angled rear hatch, rear spoiler and wide wraparound tail lights that interconnect with the hatch door.
On the inside, Calty designers and TTC engineers made comfort, refinement and utility a priority for the five-passenger Venza. A lower rocker design will allow occupants to more easily step in and out of the vehicle than a typical sedan. Venza will also feature a higher ride height and hip points that will provide significantly better driver visibility than most sedans and easier ingress and egress than most SUVs.
Venza will feature a spacious interior providing ample room for all five passengers and abundant SUV-like cargo space behind the second row of seats. The rear hatch provides a low cargo height that allows for easy loading and unloading of luggage and outdoor gear. Easy-to-use levers, one on each side of the rear cargo area, allow the 60/40 split rear seats to fold flat, providing additional storage space for extra long items such as surf boards, skis, camping gear and gardening equipment. For added passenger comfort, the rear seats recline up to 14 degrees.
A creative interior design complemented with an array of comfort and convenience features provides Venza with a refined look and feel that is commonly reserved for a luxury sedan. The flow of the instrumentation panel (IP) creates a unique 60/60 design that gives both driver and front passenger the look and feeling that 60 percent of the IP is accessible from their seating position.
An extra long center console extends from the IP and slopes down to a center compartment with a unique sliding console cover. Sliding open the compartment lid reveals a large storage well deep enough to hold a large purse. The compartment is also illuminated and equipped with an auxiliary audio jack and 12-volt power point. The upper portion of the center console houses the gear-shift lever for easy and comfortable driver access. Climate control functions are centrally located on the upper center console, providing easy accessibility for both driver and passenger. The center console also contains an iPod/MP3 storage compartment with wire management and illuminated dual cupholders.
All Venza models will be equipped with an array of standard features including auto dual zone air conditioning, AM/FM six-disc CD, tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio controls, remote keyless entry, electrochromic rearview mirror with compass, a multi-information display, cruise control, optitron gauges, rear wiper, privacy glass, and much more. On V6 models Venza will come standard with dual exhaust tips and will be the first Toyota model to ride on standard 20-inch alloy wheels. Four-cylinder models will come standard with 19-inch alloy wheels.
Chrome accents throughout give Venza a refined look and feel. Models equipped with an optional leather-trimmed interior will feature wood-grain-type trim and seats stitched with dark piping that is tastefully coordinated with Venza’s standard linear grain dashboard and steering wheel. An array of storage space will be available throughout the vehicle to accommodate passenger belongings. A large storage compartment with an additional 12-volt power point located on the passenger side of the front center console will be sizeable enough to contain maps and magazines.
A panoramic roof will be offered as an option and will be a first for the Toyota vehicle lineup. The roof will feature separate glass panels over the front and rear seats. The front glass panel will have a power tilt/slide function.
Venza will also offer an Automatic High Beam headlight system, another Toyota first. When high beam headlights are in use sensors in the Automatic High Beam system will detect oncoming traffic and automatically switch the headlights to low-beam. When the Automatic High Beam sensors no longer detect oncoming traffic the system will switch the headlights back to high-beam mode.
Additional optional equipment will include a navigation system equipped with a JBL audio system, integrated satellite radio capability and Bluetooth™ technology; a premium JBL audio system with AM/FM six-disc CD changer, satellite radio capability and Bluetooth™, rear seat entertainment system, a Smart Key System, back-up camera and a power rear door.
The sleek and sporty styling, refined interior and outstanding utility features are complemented with fun-to-drive performance attributes expected by owners with active lifestyles. Aggressive handling typically found in a performance coupe is well-balanced by the on-road comfort of an upscale sedan.
Venza will be available in front- and all-wheel-drive configurations. It will provide drivers and passengers the best of both worlds by delivering the quiet comfortable ride expected from a full-size sedan along with the peace-of-mind that comes with all-wheel-drive.
Power will be generated by an available 3.5-liter V6 that will produce 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 246 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,700 rpm with a towing capability of 3,500 pounds. Standard power will come from an all-new 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that will deliver capable performance and provide excellent fuel efficiency and low emissions. Both engines will be mated with a six-speed sequential-shift electronically-controlled automatic transmission.
Venza will be equipped with a comprehensive list of standard safety features. It will provide a total of seven airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag and side and curtain airbags for both rows of seats. Venza will also be the first sedan with Toyota’s STAR safety system, featuring anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and vehicle stability control. Venza will also feature active head restraints as standard equipment.
“Venza will establish an exciting new crossover niche that will combine the finest attributes of Toyota’s diverse vehicle lineup,” said Carter. “It will cater to buyers who are looking for the value and reliability of a Camry, the comfort and upscale refinement of an Avalon, and the utility and functionality of a Highlander SUV in one very stylish and sporty package.”
“When it goes on sale in late 2008, the Venza crossover sedan will represent Toyota’s latest commitment to driving change in the marketplace.”
2008 NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
DETROIT, January 14, 2008 - - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., unveiled the all-new 2009 Venza crossover sedan at a press conference here today at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). Venza will raise the crossover vehicle to new levels by combining a unique blend of sedan refinement and sport utility vehicle (SUV) functionality.
“The all-new Venza was developed as a vehicle that combines the styling, comfort and fun-to-drive performance elements of a five-passenger sedan with the surprising utility of an SUV,” said Bob Carter, Toyota Division group vice president and general manager. “This winning combination will be ideal for active ‘boomers’ and young couples with small families.”
All aspects of Venza’s engineering and design were targeted specifically for the North American market where it will be sold exclusively. Venza was engineered at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich., and designed at Toyota’s Calty design studios in Newport Beach, Calif. and Ann Arbor, Mich. Venza will be assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK), in Georgetown, Ky.
The development focus of the Venza design team was to create a new crossover vehicle that shifted away from the more traditional SUV styling themes that tend to dominate the segment. Calty designers leaned more heavily on a sleek sedan concept with a wide stance that featured a sporty exterior and premium comfort interior but would also be equipped with important SUV attributes such as cargo space, towing capability and all-wheel-drive performance.
The exterior design of the four-door Venza begins with an imposing front end featuring a distinctive grille, headlights and fog lamps for an aggressive, yet classy appearance. The front conforms to a sleek and aerodynamic shape with short overhangs, crisp character lines and a roofline and ground clearance that are lower than a typical crossover. From behind, Venza’s refined appearance is complete with an angled rear hatch, rear spoiler and wide wraparound tail lights that interconnect with the hatch door.
On the inside, Calty designers and TTC engineers made comfort, refinement and utility a priority for the five-passenger Venza. A lower rocker design will allow occupants to more easily step in and out of the vehicle than a typical sedan. Venza will also feature a higher ride height and hip points that will provide significantly better driver visibility than most sedans and easier ingress and egress than most SUVs.
Venza will feature a spacious interior providing ample room for all five passengers and abundant SUV-like cargo space behind the second row of seats. The rear hatch provides a low cargo height that allows for easy loading and unloading of luggage and outdoor gear. Easy-to-use levers, one on each side of the rear cargo area, allow the 60/40 split rear seats to fold flat, providing additional storage space for extra long items such as surf boards, skis, camping gear and gardening equipment. For added passenger comfort, the rear seats recline up to 14 degrees.
A creative interior design complemented with an array of comfort and convenience features provides Venza with a refined look and feel that is commonly reserved for a luxury sedan. The flow of the instrumentation panel (IP) creates a unique 60/60 design that gives both driver and front passenger the look and feeling that 60 percent of the IP is accessible from their seating position.
An extra long center console extends from the IP and slopes down to a center compartment with a unique sliding console cover. Sliding open the compartment lid reveals a large storage well deep enough to hold a large purse. The compartment is also illuminated and equipped with an auxiliary audio jack and 12-volt power point. The upper portion of the center console houses the gear-shift lever for easy and comfortable driver access. Climate control functions are centrally located on the upper center console, providing easy accessibility for both driver and passenger. The center console also contains an iPod/MP3 storage compartment with wire management and illuminated dual cupholders.
All Venza models will be equipped with an array of standard features including auto dual zone air conditioning, AM/FM six-disc CD, tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio controls, remote keyless entry, electrochromic rearview mirror with compass, a multi-information display, cruise control, optitron gauges, rear wiper, privacy glass, and much more. On V6 models Venza will come standard with dual exhaust tips and will be the first Toyota model to ride on standard 20-inch alloy wheels. Four-cylinder models will come standard with 19-inch alloy wheels.
Chrome accents throughout give Venza a refined look and feel. Models equipped with an optional leather-trimmed interior will feature wood-grain-type trim and seats stitched with dark piping that is tastefully coordinated with Venza’s standard linear grain dashboard and steering wheel. An array of storage space will be available throughout the vehicle to accommodate passenger belongings. A large storage compartment with an additional 12-volt power point located on the passenger side of the front center console will be sizeable enough to contain maps and magazines.
A panoramic roof will be offered as an option and will be a first for the Toyota vehicle lineup. The roof will feature separate glass panels over the front and rear seats. The front glass panel will have a power tilt/slide function.
Venza will also offer an Automatic High Beam headlight system, another Toyota first. When high beam headlights are in use sensors in the Automatic High Beam system will detect oncoming traffic and automatically switch the headlights to low-beam. When the Automatic High Beam sensors no longer detect oncoming traffic the system will switch the headlights back to high-beam mode.
Additional optional equipment will include a navigation system equipped with a JBL audio system, integrated satellite radio capability and Bluetooth™ technology; a premium JBL audio system with AM/FM six-disc CD changer, satellite radio capability and Bluetooth™, rear seat entertainment system, a Smart Key System, back-up camera and a power rear door.
The sleek and sporty styling, refined interior and outstanding utility features are complemented with fun-to-drive performance attributes expected by owners with active lifestyles. Aggressive handling typically found in a performance coupe is well-balanced by the on-road comfort of an upscale sedan.
Venza will be available in front- and all-wheel-drive configurations. It will provide drivers and passengers the best of both worlds by delivering the quiet comfortable ride expected from a full-size sedan along with the peace-of-mind that comes with all-wheel-drive.
Power will be generated by an available 3.5-liter V6 that will produce 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 246 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,700 rpm with a towing capability of 3,500 pounds. Standard power will come from an all-new 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that will deliver capable performance and provide excellent fuel efficiency and low emissions. Both engines will be mated with a six-speed sequential-shift electronically-controlled automatic transmission.
Venza will be equipped with a comprehensive list of standard safety features. It will provide a total of seven airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag and side and curtain airbags for both rows of seats. Venza will also be the first sedan with Toyota’s STAR safety system, featuring anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and vehicle stability control. Venza will also feature active head restraints as standard equipment.
“Venza will establish an exciting new crossover niche that will combine the finest attributes of Toyota’s diverse vehicle lineup,” said Carter. “It will cater to buyers who are looking for the value and reliability of a Camry, the comfort and upscale refinement of an Avalon, and the utility and functionality of a Highlander SUV in one very stylish and sporty package.”
“When it goes on sale in late 2008, the Venza crossover sedan will represent Toyota’s latest commitment to driving change in the marketplace.”
01-14-2008, 11:08 AM
#5
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Toyota is way to SUV crazy, IMO. I wonder, what's to happen to the Highlander? It seems they're going to be sold side by side. The interior does nothing for me. The interior is nice, though.
01-14-2008, 11:13 AM
#6
Senior Moderator
Highlander seats 7 and was all new for 08. So I doubt anything will happen. More truck like as well.
Not bad. I see some Ford Edge in that front end. New 2.7L I4 sounds interesting. I wonder how much power it makes.
Not bad. I see some Ford Edge in that front end. New 2.7L I4 sounds interesting. I wonder how much power it makes.
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01-14-2008, 12:30 PM
#8
The sizzle in the Steak
Originally Posted by dom
Highlander seats 7 and was all new for 08. So I doubt anything will happen. More truck like as well.
Not bad. I see some Ford Edge in that front end. New 2.7L I4 sounds interesting. I wonder how much power it makes.
Not bad. I see some Ford Edge in that front end. New 2.7L I4 sounds interesting. I wonder how much power it makes.
Other than the grille, Toyota has a winner.
01-14-2008, 01:10 PM
#10
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Originally Posted by jz-97-c7
looks just like a toyota-ized ford edge...but the interior is tight
The more I look, the more I think that a Ford Edge and Mazda Cx9 got a little too close at the FoMoCo Xmas party and this is the slightly retarded offspring
01-14-2008, 01:37 PM
#12
What Would Don Draper Do?
the rear looks good.
interior looks like a toyota.
the grille looks ugly.
i don't like it. but i can see it selling well.
the car does have a good looking profile though.
interior looks like a toyota.
the grille looks ugly.
i don't like it. but i can see it selling well.
the car does have a good looking profile though.
01-17-2008, 10:08 PM
#15
The Third Ball
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interior is pretty interesting in a good way
01-17-2008, 11:19 PM
#17
I shoot people
I'm usually not very opinionated, but... that front is very Ford (why? I don't know), the interior's nice, the overall design is kinda 
But it'll probably do good with the soccer moms
But it'll probably do good with the soccer moms
01-18-2008, 11:39 AM
#20
The sizzle in the Steak
Any specs yet on the 2.7 I-4?
01-18-2008, 11:41 AM
#21
GEEZER
meh. Pass.
01-18-2008, 01:28 PM
#22
Senior Moderator
Its one of the first toyotas ive liked as of of late. Would i buy it... No. But i do think it looks good
01-18-2008, 03:39 PM
#23
Senior Moderator
Center console is a little busy but I like it. It would be nice if that 2.7L I4 was boosted (a la RDX).
01-19-2008, 10:23 AM
#25
Honestly this looks like it could've been a Lexus, but Toyota retracted and made it a Toyota after seeing how much bolder looking the MDX got. It probably had HID projectors and a Lexus grille, cause the lower bottom air dam looks like a Lexus IS.
Cause there really is no reason for it in the current lineup, the Highlander already occupies the crossover, and the 4Runner is the hardcore off-roader, and then there's the RAV4, the other crossover, and the FJ Cruiser, the other off-roader.
Cause there really is no reason for it in the current lineup, the Highlander already occupies the crossover, and the 4Runner is the hardcore off-roader, and then there's the RAV4, the other crossover, and the FJ Cruiser, the other off-roader.
01-19-2008, 01:35 PM
#27
Fahrvergnügen'd
Originally Posted by biker
I don't see this taking sales from anyone else other than Toyota itself. Just make a Camry wagon already and be done with it.
01-19-2008, 01:39 PM
#28
Hey Toyota, you're not fooling anyone. That's a WAGON. Nice try. 
Interior is nice, but there ain't much else I like about it. Its a car marketed towards the soccer moms probably.
Interior is nice, but there ain't much else I like about it. Its a car marketed towards the soccer moms probably.
01-19-2008, 03:38 PM
#29
99 TL, 06 E350
i have seen some Camry Wagon...which is rare to say the least. People won't buy wagons becasue everyone is an idiot so they buy SUV's. Looks very close to what Ford sells in Europe.
01-20-2008, 01:18 AM
#33
Race Director
Originally Posted by charliemike
They tried one and I don't think it sold well but that was during cheap gas and the SUV craze. 35mpg CAFE means wagons in the future so it's probably time to start preparing customers for the fact.
01-22-2008, 11:11 AM
#36
Fahrvergnügen'd
Originally Posted by I Go To Costco
Hey Toyota, you're not fooling anyone. That's a WAGON. Nice try.
Interior is nice, but there ain't much else I like about it. Its a car marketed towards the soccer moms probably.
Interior is nice, but there ain't much else I like about it. Its a car marketed towards the soccer moms probably.
01-22-2008, 11:23 AM
#37
What Would Don Draper Do?
Originally Posted by 04EuroAccordTsx
Maybe Venza was made to compete with the Murano. Hate the front grill though.
I'd get this Venza over the RAV4
I'd get this Venza over the RAV4
but yea. the venza and murano do share similarities other than the ugly grilles.
01-22-2008, 02:54 PM
#38
Senior Moderator
Originally Posted by Python2121
The first car IMO in this segment. Didn't like that one, hasn't really grown on me since. This at least looks pretty luxury.
01-07-2020, 01:15 PM
#39
Moderator
https://www.motor1.com/news/391574/t...undra-delayed/
Last year, Toyota sold nine Venza crossovers, the same number it sold in 2018. But the model disappeared from U.S. dealerships in 2015. Production ended at the end of 2017 though it now appears Toyota will revive the nameplate in the form of a hybrid crossover. The news comes from a TFLnow report, citing an “insider source” who spoke about Toyota’s future products. The report also included details about the next Sienna minivan and the next-gen, and much-needed, redesigned Toyota Tundra pickup.
According to the TFLnow source, Toyota will revive the Venza nameplate for a new, 100-percent hybrid crossover. It’ll seat five across two rows, and help give the automaker a competitor against the Honda Passport, Ford Edge, and others. The hybrid powertrain would likely come from either the RAV4 or Highlander. Both pair a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to an electric motor. However, the Highlander makes more power – 234 (174 kW) versus 219 (163 kW) and allows for all-wheel drive. The next-gen Sienna could be 100-percent hybrid-powered, too.
According to the TFLnow source, Toyota will revive the Venza nameplate for a new, 100-percent hybrid crossover. It’ll seat five across two rows, and help give the automaker a competitor against the Honda Passport, Ford Edge, and others. The hybrid powertrain would likely come from either the RAV4 or Highlander. Both pair a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to an electric motor. However, the Highlander makes more power – 234 (174 kW) versus 219 (163 kW) and allows for all-wheel drive. The next-gen Sienna could be 100-percent hybrid-powered, too.
01-07-2020, 02:54 PM
#40
Ex-OEM King
100% hybrid? It either it is or it isn't a hybrid, don't know how it can be a partial one...