Toyota Venza Test Drive
Toyota says that its new Venza combines the practicality of an SUV with the convenience of a passenger car. So when I was able to test drive it, I was not exactly sure what to expect. Was it an SUV or not? A crossover? No, they said not a crossover either. That was a confusing claim, and I was out to set it straight.
When I first got to my local Waukegan dealership and stepped into the Venza, I basically fell straight into the seat. Having only been used to “typical” SUVs, the step up into the car is usually the most strenuous part. But not with the Venza. You can get into the vehicle without having to climb, the first perk I noticed about having a sedan-like SUV. Or is it an SUV-like sedan?
Looking around the inside, with its heated seats, leather trim, navigation system, backup camera, and other luxury amenities, I realized that the car aspect really came through, but with more interior space than I would have imagined.
And the driving was no different than I’ve come to expect from a Camry. My Toyota Kenosha dealer took me driving through long windy roads, that my SUV at home would have been slow on. However, the Venza handled the back roads like a champ. The steering was responsive and sturdy and the overall handling was solid. Even through crooked and swerving roads, the Venza never gave any indication of strain. It was also shockingly fun driving through those roads. Usually they make me nervous in my big SUV, to go so quickly through them in the Venza.
With 182 horsepower, Toyota has introduced a new engine with the Venza, my Toyota Gurnee dealer explains to me. And it is quite a strong one, giving the new Venza lots of power and attitude for a car of this style.
Once we got back to the dealership, I was told one of the most exciting parts about the new Venza. It starts at only $25,975. For driving and handling like I had just experienced, I was tempted to just trade in my old SUV and pick up one of these… vehicles. With the amount and nature of standard options available on the Venza – combined with its versatility, interior space, and performance – make this Toyota one vivacious vehicle available at affordable prices.
Whether you count it as a car, SUV or SUV car, it all rolls out the same. It is an amazing ride, sturdy and capable with a fun acceleration and drive behind it. It is affordably luxurious on the inside and lower profiled than a big SUV, meaning you won’t break your neck (or your bank account) getting inside.
