Toyota Venza falls short

[Mr. Burns]

Originally Posted by civilzues

Yes, but it took TOYota only a decade and it took GM what, 3 decades to be in the crapper?

It took them 3 decades to come out of the crapper.

[johnstarnes]

Originally Posted by ByTheLake

Wow ... harsh review. I actually think the Venza is a rather nice looking vehicle, at least when looking at the pictures. I've never seen one in person, and can't comment on the interior or handling.

I wonder how much bad press has to occur before the American public actually begins to perceive Toyota in a lesser light? In spite of the negative coverage over the floor mat/acceleration thing, and many articles regarding inferior durability or quality, it seems that the buying public still hold Toyota high on a pedestal.

I've seen several here in Tampa, and while I liked it in photos, for my tastes it looks even better in real life....creative, balanced and well-executed. But then again I have seen cars as sculptures on wheels since I was 10, and like it when designs are fresh. I especially like the blending of the grille/headlights/fenders in front, and the tail lights/D-pillar and rear fenders in back.

[Hitman1970]

I think it is a good vehicle. I hope Ford puts a four-banger in the Edge soon to completely compete with this. Equinox and Terrain do very well against it for GM.

[bradyholt]

Originally Posted by Hitman1970

I think it is a good vehicle. I hope Ford puts a four-banger in the Edge soon to completely compete with this. Equinox and Terrain do very well against it for GM.

The Edge's 300+ lb weight penalty against the Venza make a 4-cylinder problematic. Even the Escape isn't all that peppy.

[Rex Raider]

My dealership has been sold out of them since they went on sale, with a constant 3 month wait for anyone that wanted one. I have heard nothing except good things about them. They have brought in several buyers that would not have considered Toyota before. I personally don't like the grille, but I don't mind the rest of the car. I think it looks like a squished Lexus RX.
I don't often feel my car, so hard plastic doesn't bother me.
I haven't driven one long enough to comment on overall ride, etc... but I'm sure it's acceptable. This is the first really negative article that I've seen about the Venza.

[mikmak]

I really like the Venza. Not sure what everyone else hates about it (besides the badge).

[Olds88]

Dear FSM is that thing hideous! Its very evident that Toyota wanted to build a Ford Edge looking at this thing, problem is the Edge actually looks pretty good. The inside quality wise is fine, its the fact the dash reminds me of a Prius that I don't like.