The Good
The 2012 Toyota Venza offers a comfortable and quiet ride, appealing to those seeking relaxed cruising. Toyota's reputation for reliability provides peace of mind, a practical advantage. Its stylish design, with a blend of wagon and SUV aesthetics, provides a sense of sophistication. The available V6 engine delivers adequate performance, satisfying drivers needing extra power.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2012 Toyota Venza include its somewhat bland driving experience compared to sportier crossovers. The four-cylinder engine can feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded. Some owners have reported issues with the navigation system and electronic components. Check for proper maintenance records, particularly regarding oil changes, to avoid potential engine problems.
2012 Toyota Venza: Quick Overview
Here's a bullet-point summary of the 2012 Toyota Venza's key specs:
- Engine Options:
- 2.7L 4-cylinder engine
- 3.5L V6 engine
- Horsepower:
- 2.7L 4-cylinder: 182 hp
- 3.5L V6: 268 hp
- Fuel Economy (MPG):
- 2.7L 4-cylinder (FWD): 20 city / 26 highway
- 3.5L V6 (FWD): 19 city / 26 highway
- AWD models have slightly lower fuel economy.
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.7L 4-cylinder: Approximately 9.3 seconds
- 3.5L V6: Approximately 7.1 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- 3.5L V6: Up to 3,500 lbs (when properly equipped)
- 2.7L 4-cylinder: Not recommended for heavy towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- LE: Standard features include dual-zone automatic climate control, six-speaker audio system, 6.1-inch touchscreen display, rearview camera, and alloy wheels.
- XLE: Adds leather upholstery, keyless entry and ignition, heated front seats, upgraded audio system, and available panoramic sunroof.
- Limited: Includes HID headlights, premium JBL audio system, navigation system, and rain-sensing wipers.
2012 Toyota Venza Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2012 |
Make | Toyota |
Model | Venza |
Trim | - |
Style | 4-Door Wagon All-Wheel Drive |
Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | United States |
Manufacturing City | GEORGETOWN |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | 1705.51 kg |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 2249.82 kg |
Overall Height | 161.04 cm |
Overall Length | 480.06 cm |
Overall Width | 190.5 cm |
Wheelbase Length | 277.62 cm |
Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 182 High Power 2.7-L i4 |
Engine Size | 2.7L |
Engine Cylinders | 4 |
Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $27,425 USD |
Invoice Price | $25,095 USD |
Delivery Charges | $760 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Toyota Venza Have?
Recalls for the 2012 Venza have included concerns related to the airbag system and potential fuel leakage, so verifying that these recalls have been addressed is crucial. Long-term reliability concerns primarily revolve around the electronic components and the potential for increased maintenance costs as the vehicle ages. Rust can also be an issue in regions with harsh winters and salted roads, so inspecting the undercarriage for corrosion is wise. Overall, the Venza maintains a relatively good reliability record, but these potential issues should be carefully inspected before purchase.
How long will the 2012 Toyota Venza last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
In terms of safety, the Venza came standard with antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags. Optional driver-assistance features included parking sensors and a blind-spot monitoring system (available on higher trims).
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) were generally positive, with the Venza earning good ratings in most categories. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) also awarded the Venza a four-star overall safety rating. While lacking some of the advanced driver-assistance features found in newer vehicles, the 2012 Venza provides a solid level of safety for its era.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2012 Toyota Venza Prices and Market Value
2012 Toyota Venza Cost of Ownership
2012 Toyota Venza Fuel Efficiency
2012 Toyota Venza Safety Rating
NHTSA
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2012 Toyota Venza Recalls & Defects
AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
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2012 Toyota Venza Warranty
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Powertrain
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2012 Toyota Venza Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Toyota Venza Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Similar alternatives could include the Subaru Outback, which offers standard all-wheel drive, or the Mazda CX-5, known for its sporty handling. If reliability is the top priority, the Venza remains a strong contender. However, if driving dynamics or fuel efficiency are more important, the Ford Edge or Honda CR-V might be better choices. For a balance of features and reliability at a similar price point, the Venza is a worthwhile option.
Ranks #21 Wagon
1 | 2015 Toyota Venza | (5.0★) |
2 | 2009 Honda Odyssey | (5.0★) |
3 | 2024 Subaru Impreza | (4.0★) |
4 | 2009 Mazda CX-7 | (5.0★) |
5 | 2023 Ford Transit Connect Wagon | (0.0★) |
6 | 2023 Audi A6 allroad | (0.0★) |
7 | 2021 Ram ProMaster City | (0.0★) |
8 | 2019 Volvo V60 | (5.0★) |
9 | 2015 Scion xB | (0.0★) |
10 | 2010 Volkswagen Passat | (5.0★) |
11 | 2008 Pontiac Vibe | (0.0★) |
12 | 2006 Land Rover Range Rover | (0.0★) |
21 | 2012 Toyota Venza | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Toyota Venza a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
Jose on December 27, 2024
Best car we’ve ever owned we’re at 200,000 miles andBest car we’ve ever owned we’re at 200,000 miles and still runs like new, the only thing I’ve replaced so far other than tires and battery is the starter at 175,000 miles. The one thing that keeps breaking are the sun visors,I’ve probably replaced them 3 times already,other than that it’s a very reliable car I would definitely buy one again!
Granny disappointed on September 27, 2024
Why is there so many people complaining about leakingWhy is there so many people complaining about leaking inside the car from the sunroof. Cheap naterials. Need a recall on this item. Seems like all Venza's are having the same problem.
Walid Soltan on January 7, 2024
beyond AmazingThis vehicle is beyond Amazing. the reliability is Top. Just keep up the care oil change on time. I have the V6 XLE AWD. love it.
Dave Forester on April 29, 2022
I really love this car!I have owned it for 4 years and still love driving it. The only repairs [and they are not really repairs] were replacing the battery and the wiper blades. The V6 has tons of power and there is a surprising amount of room to haul things when the seats are folded down. It uses a lot of fuel but that is the cost of having power and space.
JanK on December 8, 2020
Great ride!!This car has all I need. Drives great! Enjoy how it handles and smooth on the road. I feel it’s safe and looks like a new car.
Billz on March 27, 2020
My first ToyotaBought this because of Toyota's reputation for reliability. It is very comfortable and easy to into and out of. Nice looking vehicle with an excellent sound system.
M. Chandler on January 20, 2020
Hard to find but worth itVenza's are no longer made. A real pity. My wife wanted an SUV like the Toyota Highlander we had. I was tired of driving an SUV, I'M tired of seeing all of the SUV's out on the road and they all look about the same. The Venza looks and drives like a car. It has AWD, and has several modern amenities. I know my wife and I will enjoy this car for years to come.
DadV on October 13, 2019
Owned for 2 years, only complaint Factory TiresThis is a very comfortable car, I drove a FWD model before this and it rode better with the smaller rim size. Recently changed all 4 tires out and greatly improved ride and wet and snow handling as well as quiter on highway. Noticed a review that said ride was rough on bad roads, it is not the vehicle, it is the OE tires that likely were replaced with same type on their vehicle, search tirerack.com reviews, I got the least aggressive All Terrain Tire and they are much better than the performance tires the vehicle came with, in every way except summer dry handling is not quite as good, but good trade off to me as rain traction was dangerous before I changes tires and they had 2/3 of their tread still on them.
Deano on June 28, 2019
UNBEATABLE RELIABILITYThinking of buying one for he wife or kids. SAFE...RELIABLE. Great in snow. I expect 200,000+ miles (currently has 38,000). Make me an offer....am retired.
Toyota man on April 24, 2019
best car in the world.I have 108000 miles on my venza and i would not trade for anything else out there. It is a shame they quit making it. the performance is like was still brand new. If and I mean if it ever goes out I will search another one before i would buy anything else. I fully expect it to go past 200,000 miles.