For those looking for a no-nonsense SUV from a brand that has a lengthy track record of manufacturing dependable, safe vehicles that last a long time, look no further than the 2022 Toyota Venza Limited.
Equipped with Toyota’s second-generation hybrid system, and advanced electronic on-demand all-wheel drive, Venza delivers comfortable city and highway performance, coupled with an EPA-estimated 39 mile per gallon fuel economy.
Talk about having your cake and eating it too.
Offering ample room for five in a highly maneuverable package, the Venza includes a host of available tech-focused features, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with nine JBL speakers, seven-inch multi-information display, digital rear-view mirror, and 10-inch color head-up display. Other available features include a fixed panoramic glass roof and heated and ventilated front seats that set the stage for true, graceful grand touring.
Venza’s standard hybrid system combines a high-efficiency, 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine with three electric motors in a highly compact system. The combination delivers 219 total system horsepower. As with all Toyota hybrids, the feeling of everyday acceleration and responsiveness is heightened by the way the electric motor boosts low-speed torque. The hybrid system optimizes the level of electric motor assistance and gas engine RPM without the engine running at high revs.
Selectable NORMAL, ECO and SPORT driving modes let the driver tailor the Venza’s performance personality. SPORT mode enhances and sharpens throttle response, making fuel efficiency more fun. ECO mode changes the throttle and environmental logic to help the driver focus on maximizing mileage from the fuel and battery, while NORMAL mode is ideal for everyday driving. Additionally, EV mode allows electric-only driving at low speeds for short distances.
Passengers enjoy the comfort and convenience of home, even on long drives. My favorites were the premium audio system with amplifier and subwoofer, standard, eight-way power seats, hands-free Bluetooth, heated steering wheel, three USB charging ports, navigation system, and Apple Car Play.
For customers who seek premium experiences in a vehicle, keeping unwanted noise out is paramount. The 2022 Venza provides a surprisingly quiet cabin. Rather than simply aiming at a “numbers” goal for sound level (decibels), Toyota engineers created a calm atmosphere conducive to enjoying easy conversation or hearing music in cleaner detail.
Whether an SUV or small sedan, space matters. The Venza doesn’t take up a lot of space outside, yet provides generous space inside. Cupholders can accommodate large drink sizes, while the center stack tray can handle the largest iPhone models. Door bottle holders can take 24-oz bottles.
Venza offers 28.8 cu. ft. of carrying space behind the second row. The lithium-ion battery pack is small enough to be installed under the rear seats, so it does not take up any cargo or passenger space. The standard tonneau cover can be stored in the storage space beneath the deck board when not in use.
Finally, Toyota’s Safety Sense comprehensive suite of active safety features does not disappoint. The list includes: pre-collision braking with daytime/low-light vehicle and pedestrian detection, plus daytime bicyclist detection; full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist; automatic high beams, lane tracing assist, and road sign assist.
Base Price: $41,595
Price As Driven: $44,515
Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
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