2012 Toyota Venza Review
Price Estimate: $16,990





+170
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Spacious interior
- powerful and efficient V6
- pleasant ride
- innovative interior storage
- well equipped.
Cons
- A few disappointing interior bits
- not particularly involving to drive.
What’s new
The 2012 Venza now assumes traditional Toyota hierarchy with LE, XLE and Limited trim levels. Visually and mechanically, however, it is a carryover from last year.
Edmunds says
The 2012 Toyota Venza is hard to define, but whether you call it a wagon or a crossover, it's a competitive and comfortable family vehicle.
For sale nationwide
86 listings
- 87,172 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 19 City / 26 Hwy MPG
- Carvana - Memphis (853 mi away)
- Home delivery*
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
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Located in Memphis, TN
At Carvana, we go miles beyond the extra mile. That's why we provide you with a convenient, fast, and hassle-free car buying experience that puts you ...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
22 Combined MPG (19 City/26 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 4T3ZK3BB9CU051031
Stock: 2003723177
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 05-08-2025- $8,249good price$313 below market
- 168,008 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use
- 5 Seats, 21 City / 27 Hwy MPG
- AutoNation Honda Sanford (1,480 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
Close
Located in Sanford, FL
Leather SeatsSpecial PaintKeyless StartRear Spoiler50 State EmissionsBlizzard PearlIvory; Leather Seat TrimXle PkgThis vehicle includes a Mo...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
23 Combined MPG (21 City/27 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 4T3ZA3BB8CU060399
Stock: CU060399
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 06-05-2025
Vehicle overview
Whether people are willing to admit it or not, wagons are often more practical, space-efficient, and easier to drive than SUVs or even some crossovers. In fact, because most crossovers are trying to disguise themselves as light-duty SUVs, they often feature high step-in and seat heights that are not necessarily family-friendly. The hard-to-classify 2012 Toyota Venza has everything you like about the space in an SUV, only in a package as easy to live with as a wagon. But forget trying to define the Venza. It avoids the apparent arrogance of an SUV, the stigma of a minivan and the ambivalence of a crossover; it simply works.
And if there's one thing the 2012 Toyota Venza is, it's family-friendly. The driving experience is completely non-taxing, since the Venza is not trying to out-sport European sport wagons. While most folks will be completely happy with the standard four-cylinder engine (unless the future holds fully loaded trips to the mountains or towing), the V6 offers nearly the same fuel economy and is probably the better choice for all-purpose drivability. All-wheel drive is offered with either engine.
The Venza's generously proportioned interior abounds with clever design that's meant to be useful rather than trendy. There are numerous bins, cubbies and storage options. The 60/40 rear seats easily accommodate rear-facing child seats and fold conveniently with the pull of a lever to expand cargo capacity to SUV scale. In addition, a full complement of features and conveniences are offered for modern families, either as standard or optional equipment. Even the base model Venza comes very well equipped, and the various option packages mostly upgrade rather than augment existing equipment levels. Standout options include a panoramic moonroof and a voice-activated navigation system (with traffic and an integrated reverse camera).
It's difficult to select a direct competitor for the 2012 Toyota Venza, but those who have considered the Honda Crosstour and its unique attributes (and shortcomings) or the Nissan Murano because of its eye-catching style would do well to check out the Venza. The Subaru Outback is another vehicle to consider if you want something a bit more rugged-looking. Overall, we think very highly of the 2012 Toyota Venza, because it offers just about everything you'll find in a typical crossover, only with fewer drawbacks when it comes to everyday usability.
Performance & mpg
The 2012 Toyota Venza is available with a four- or six-cylinder engine mated to either front- or all-wheel drive. All versions feature a six-speed automatic transmission.
The 2.7-liter four-cylinder produces 182 horsepower and 182 pound-feet of torque. In Edmunds performance testing, a four-cylinder, front-drive Venza went from a standstill to 60 mph in 9.3 seconds -- an average time compared to similarly powered crossovers. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 21 mpg city/27 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and 20/25/22 with all-wheel drive.
The 3.5-liter V6 produces 268 hp and 246 lb-ft of torque. In Edmunds performance testing, an all-wheel-drive Venza V6 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in a quick 6.9 seconds. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 19/26/22 with front drive and 18/25/21 with AWD. Those are impressive mileage numbers for a vehicle of this size and power. Properly equipped, a V6 Venza can tow 3,500 pounds.
Safety
Every 2012 Toyota Venza comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags, a driver knee airbag and front-seat active head restraints. In Edmunds brake testing, the Venza came to a stop from 60 mph in a respectable 122 feet.
The Toyota Venza has received an overall four-star rating (out of a possible five) in government crash testing, which is comprised of three stars for front crash protection and five stars for side-impact protection. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing, the Venza earned the highest rating of "Good" performance in its frontal-offset, side and roof-strength tests.
Driving
It shouldn't come as a shock that the 2012 Toyota Venza is hardly a wagon in the ilk of sporty European models. Instead, the Venza is designed for comfort, utility and ease of driving. If it weren't for the vague feel of its electric-assist steering, the Venza might actually be interesting to drive instead of merely pleasant. Parking lot maneuvers couldn't be easier, however. Both engines provide ample power to move this sizable vehicle, although the V6 is obviously the way to go if passing folks on the highway takes precedence over achieving the best fuel economy.
Interior
The 2012 Venza doesn't quite exhibit the top-notch interior quality of past Toyota models, but the overall design is rather fetching and practical, with a sleek center console that features a high-mounted shifter that frees up space between the seats. This allows for a large console bin, generously sized cupholders and smaller bins perfect for iPods and other small devices. The audio and climate controls are a design departure for Toyota, but they remain user-friendly.
Although it lacks a third-row seat, the Venza provides loads of passenger space, particularly in the rear, which features reclining seatbacks. A bit more driver seat adjustment would be nice, though. The cargo area can swallow 70 cubic feet of stuff with the rear seats folded and a healthy 34.4 cubes with the seats up. These numbers put the Venza a smidgen ahead of the Ford Edge and Nissan Murano.
2012 Toyota Venza models
The Toyota Venza is a five-passenger wagon available in three grades: LE, XLE and Limited. The LE and XLE are available with all powertrain combinations: four-cylinder or V6 engine, either of which may be paired with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The Limited is powered by a V6 only, in either FWD or AWD.
The 2012 Toyota Venza LE comes standard with 19-inch alloy wheels (20 inches on V6), automatic headlamps, foglamps, privacy glass, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power driver seat (includes power lumbar), a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a trip computer display, and Bluetooth with audio streaming. The LE's sound system includes six speakers, a CD player, satellite radio, an auxiliary audio jack and a USB/iPod interface.
Along with its bigger engine, the 2012 Toyota Venza LE V6 adds 20-inch wheels. To this, the XLE grade adds an anti-theft system with engine immobilizer, keyless ignition/entry, a power liftgate, an upgraded trip computer display, a rearview camera, leather upholstery, heated front seats and a four-way power passenger seat.
The top-of-the-line Limited augments the XLE's standard equipment with xenon headlamps (with automatic high beams), a panoramic sunroof, a voice-activated touchscreen navigation system and a JBL 13-speaker sound system with a CD changer.
The availability of Toyota options and packages often depends on the region, so check with your local dealer. In general, there are four major packages that mimic equipment found in higher grades, and a V6 tow-prep package that includes an oil cooler, larger radiator fan and heavy-duty alternator.
The LE Convenience package includes a power liftgate and a back-up camera. To that, the LE Preferred package further adds the panoramic roof. The XLE Premium package includes the above, plus the JBL audio system. The XLE Navigation package includes the navigation system as well as the JBL audio system.

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Compare 2012 Toyota Venza trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota
$168/mo for Venza LE
Venza LE
vs
$165/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
4 out of 5 stars4/5Excellent
#5 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$374/yr
vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Frequency
0.75x/yr
vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Severity
10.7%
vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
powered by RepairPal
Toyota Venza Owner Reviews
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Comfort, speed, sound!
4.88 out of 5 starsdbbksl, 08/03/2012
2012 Toyota Venza XLE 4dr Wagon (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
Drove a Camry XLE V6.
Adored that car, never had a problem, averaged 15K yearly, got better than EPA fuel economy.
Considered new Camry when I bought car in March 12, but test drive of Venza XLE V6 changed my mind.
Incredible seat comfort, versatile storage, stylish interior, and magnificent stereo.
Also exceeds EPA rating for fuel economy, just like my reliable Camry did.
Not a jiggle … or squeak in the body.
Traction and stability control make this car perform faultlessly in pouring rain and on slick streets.
Braking also excellent.
4 month Owner
4.38 out of 5 starsarmy4, 03/21/2012
2012 Toyota Venza XLE 4dr Wagon AWD (2.7L 4cyl 6A)
I have owned my Venza now for about four months and really enjoy the vehicle.
The only thing I made a constructive critique about is the shifter is in the way of the seat heater, getting to the cups in the cup holder, adjusting the temperature.
It just feels like I always have to reach around the sifter all the time.
2012 Venza Limited
4.25 out of 5 starsroadrunner70, 04/23/2012
2012 Toyota Venza Limited 4dr Wagon (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
Had 2012 Venza limited since 3/24.
Like others, copared to Ford Edge, GM crossovers, Kia Sorrento. Came down to sorrento vs. venza.
Preferred the sorrento for price and features but didn't care for seat comfort.
Overall happy with purchase. Too soon to rate most catagories, but have to agree that the shifter is poorly designed.
It is too long and should be 2 or 3 inches shorter.
Not … happy that CD player requries opening nav unit.
Presume that 2013 venza has corrected these design issues.
However, if it gives the same level of reliability that my 2002 highlander has given (two minor repairs in 125,000 miles), I will be very happy.
Oveall, a good vehicle.
Love Venza, but not gas mileage
4.88 out of 5 starsvicki7, 10/28/2011
2011 Toyota Venza 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
After much searching we loved the Venza for comfort and roominess. With back and hip problems it's easy to get in and out of. The only design I would change is to bring the windows down another 2 inches. From inside going to drive-up windows, you have to raise your arm somewhat high and try to reach over and down to grab items. Also, the armrest could be a couple inches higher. Very … disappointed in the gas mileage! Have had it a month and get just 16 MPG around town! I was use to a V6 Buick. FWD, that got 26 MPG, so this is a big disappointment. It doesn't even reach the gas rating suggested on it's sticker. We don't drive lead foot either.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2012 Toyota Venza, so we've included reviews for other years of the Venza since its last redesign.
2012 Venza Highlights
LE
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $27,425 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 23 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $168/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 30.7 cu.ft. |
front wheel drive | |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Venza include:
- Back-up camera
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
NHTSA Overall Rating
4 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall3 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger2 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover15.5%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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