While the Venza looks like a tall hatchback or an oddly proportioned station wagon, it's related to the previous-generation Toyota Highlander SUV. Targeted at former SUV drivers who want something less utilitarian for their daily drive, the Venza winds up being less pleasant to drive than the bigger and more-refined Highlander. Giant 20-inch wheels hurt the ride, and handling is nothing special, despite the Venza's lower ride height. The sloping roof inhibits cargo volume and the view out of the rear window.
On the plus side, the Venza has plenty of room for passengers inside its very quiet interior and access is super easy. As in other Toyota products, the optional 3.5-liter V6 is refined and pulls strongly, although the Venza's 20 mpg overall in our tests is no better than the non-hybrid Highlander. We can't help thinking the Venza is an anachronism, fighting to win over an anti-SUV buyer who threw in the towel years ago.