Toyota lauches mini-site for upcoming Venza crossover

A new mini-site was launched this week by Toyota featuring its upcoming Venza crossover sedan giving potential buyers a better look into the design and functionality of the all-new four-door model.

Visitors to the site are met with a variety of three dimensional video multimedia that can be manipulated via user controls. In addition to image galleries and press release sections, the site features interviews with Venza's lead designers who explain their thought processes while styling the car.

We first reported on the five-seater last January in Detroit where company officials revealed some interesting tidbits regarding the upcoming model. Toyota's philosophy throughout the development of the crossover was to fill a void in the marketplace with a vehicle capable of offering the driving experience of a sport sedan, while giving SUV-like cargo, towing and all-wheel drive capabilities.

Keeping that in mind, engineers made room under the hood for an available 2.7-liter four-cylinder or 3.5-liter V-6 -- the latter produces 268 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque. No performance figures are currently avaliable for the four-cylinder powertrain. Both engines will be mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations.

Inside the cabin, designers implemented a 60/60 concept on styling that allows 60 percent of the front panel instruments accessible to either front passenger at any time. Available leather and JBL premium sound system keep passengers comfortable, while safety duties are handled by anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic brake force distribution, and a plethora of airbags.

Look for the 2009 Toyota Venza to hit dealerships later this year where it will look to give the Mazda CX-7 a run for its money. Click the link below to check out the new Toyota Venza website.

Source: Toyota