Toyota Venza

[meinmi]

My 2006 Vibe just keeps cruising along at 240,000 miles; no mechanical issues and always fun to drive. However with each passing mile and day I realize I'm getting ever closer to the time when it won't take much of an accident to total the car. I have no body shop skills so I would probably take the money and run if the worst were to happen. As I drive around I notice cars that might be good replacements and yesterday going through Chicago noticed four or five Toyota Venza's. What is the low down on these? Being a little larger would actually be a good thing but I hate to give up too much mpg. The 2nd generation Vibe's don't really appeal to me and the Matrix since 2010 leaves me cold as well.
Thanks

[vibrologist]

I hear you. In a way the Venza looks like a luxurious Vibe. It attracted my attention too. Since I have no personal experience I'll link you the Edmund's review.
http://www.edmunds.com/toyota/venza/200 ... eviews-tab

[Mark]

We looked at the Venza before we bought our CR-V. Big, heavy and crappy fuel economy for it's size. It was underpowered with the I4, and actually got as good or better highway mileage with the V6. But then the city and combined took a big hit. Seemed like a good vehicle for retired people who just need to haul their golf bags to the country club.

[ColonelPanic]

The one thing I know for certain about 'em is if you want a new one, better act quick... Toyota has pulled the plug on the Venza.

http://www.trucktrend.com/news/1503-con ... r-in-2015/

It always seemed a little redundant in their lineup to me. I guess it was there for those who wanted a pseudo-wagon look instead of an SUV but apparently there were not many takers. Ultimately sales were taken away by Toyota's other similar offerings. The Highlander is similar in price and most dimensions. And the cheaper RAV-4 has fattened up to the point where it isn't much of a downgrade in terms of size.

[lannvouivre]

I can't believe "no 3rd row seat" is listed as a con, considering it would be a death trap if you were rear-ended...