2014 Toyota Venza in Ames, IA - $14,995

The Toyota Venza crossover sports an aerodynamic shape with short overhangs, forward A-pillar, crisp character lines, and a low roofline. Last updated in 2013, the Venza features continuous brushstroke lines that run from the front grille to the D-pillar. A bold front end features a distinctive grille, headlights and fog lamps for a sporty yet refined appearance. Venza's sophisticated and confident appearance is completed by an angled rear hatch, spoiler and wide wraparound taillights that interconnect with the hatch door. Tight tire-to-body gaps contribute to the sophisticated, refined appearance.

Refinements and enhancement for 2015 include upgraded Entune® audio systems provide more features and convenience, and all models now have a standard backup camera. Also new for 2015, the Towing Prep Package is standard for models with the V6 engine. The package equips Venza with an engine oil cooler, larger radiator fan and heavy-duty alternator and allows a 3,500-lb. towing capacity.

Available in LE, XLE and Limited grades, base power is generated by a 2.7L four-cylinder engine, while the Venza Limited is equipped with a 3.5L V6 prime mover. The model line has been streamlined for 2015, with the LE available with just the four-cylinder engine, while the XLE offers consumers a choice of either the four- and six-cylinder engines. The LE and XLE are available in FWD or AWD configurations, while the top-of-the-line Limited is offered in the V6/AWD powertrain configuration only.

Both engines are bolted to a 6ECT six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift. Venza's Active Torque Control AWD System optimizes torque distribution between the front and rear wheels to help ensure stable acceleration and smooth cornering on all road surfaces. AWD offers enhanced traction and helps provide excellent overall handling in inclement weather.

Venza’s body structure relies on high tensile-strength steel, gussets and cross members for its strength, rigidity and optimized weight. Front suspension consists of a rigid L-arm-type MacPherson strut with a stabilizer bar, and the rear suspension is a dual-link MacPherson strut setup with stabilizer bar. Electric power steering (EPS), with its ideally weighted steering effort, contributes to the Venza’s spirited driving dynamics. EPS helps provide a more direct steering feel at both high and low speeds and delivers just-right assist when maneuvering the vehicle into tight parking spaces.

The Venza interior is designed to enhance driving enjoyment and offer premium comfort. Venza is available in three interior colors: Ivory, Light Gray, and Black. Each color is offered in fabric on LE and leather on XLE and Limited.

The flow of the center console creates a unique “60/60” design that gives both the driver and front passenger the feeling that 60 percent of the space is accessible from their seating position. All grades have a standard Optitron® speedometer and tachometer. The XLE and Limited grades also include a TFT multi-color center instrument panel display. Dual-zone automatic climate system controls are centrally located on the upper console, providing easy access for both the driver and front passenger.

Personal space lends overall comfort to the vehicle's interior with ample head room, shoulder room, hip room and couple distance. Cargo-area utility is enhanced with fold-down 60/40 rear seats, one-touch fold-down seat levers and a tonneau cover.

Venza’s generous utility includes several clever storage locations and lighting. The adjustable center console features a sliding cover and armrest, three iPod®/MP3 player holders with wire concealment features, and a large storage compartment.

The center-console compartment is also equipped with a USB port, auxiliary audio jack and 12-volt power outlet. The upper portion of the center console houses the gearshift lever for easy and comfortable driver reach. An on/off switch on the overhead console enables front-seat occupants to operate all four personal overhead interior lights.

Interior storage is further complemented by a total of 10 front and rear beverage holders (six bottle holders and four cup holders). These include dual-illuminated, sliding front cup-holders in the center console, two in the rear-seat armrest, and front- and back-door bottle holders.

Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 109.3; overall length: 189.0; width: 75.0; height: 63.4
All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 2.7L four-cylinder – 181 hp at 5,800 rpm and 182 lbs-ft of torque at 4,200 rpm; 3.5L V6 – 268 hp at 6,200 rpm and 246 lbs-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm.
Transmission: six-speed automatic with sequential shift
EPA Fuel Economy: 2.7L four-cylinder – 21 city/27 hwy. (FWD), 20 city/25 hwy. (AWD); 3.5L V6 – 19 city/26 hwy (FWD), 18 city/25 hwy.(AWD).
Cargo capacity: 70.2 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 1,000 lbs (four-cylinder), 3,500 lbs (V6 w/tow package)

Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, driver knee airbag, dual side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, smart stop technology, traction control, enhanced vehicle stability control, side-impact door beams, hill-start assist, engine immobilizer, tire pressure monitoring system, automatic headlamps, daytime running lights, fog lamps, remote keyless entry, automatic power door locks, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, and HomeLink universal transceiver. XLE adds touch-sensor door locks, Smart Key system with push button start, blind spot mirrors, and navigation system. Limited adds Bi-Xenon high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps with automatic high beam, LED daytime running lights, backup camera display, and anti-theft system with alarm.

Warranty
Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile Comprehensive
Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile
Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 2-year/25,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2015 Toyota Venza crossover starts from $29,065 for the LE FWD to $39,940 for the Limited AWD. Destination charges add $825.