2009-2012 Toyota Venza AWD 2.7L

Overview

The Toyota Venza, introduced for the 2009 model year, represents a unique entry in the North American market, positioned as a crossover between a traditional station wagon and a sport utility vehicle. Developed primarily for the United States, the Venza was designed at Toyota’s Calty Design Research centers in California and Michigan, with engineering led by the Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor. It shares the K platform with the Toyota Camry and Highlander, providing a balance of sedan-like ride quality and the elevated seating position preferred by SUV buyers.

The 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine option was added to the lineup to provide a more fuel-efficient alternative to the available 3.5-liter V6. This powertrain was aimed at consumers prioritizing daily utility and moderate operating costs over maximum towing capacity. Manufactured at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky in Georgetown, the Venza was marketed as a premium alternative to the RAV4, offering a wider cabin and a more upscale interior finish. Despite its unconventional segment placement, the Venza maintained a steady presence in the Toyota lineup until the conclusion of its first generation in 2015.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Toyota
Model	Venza AWD
Model Year	2009-2012
Generation	1st Generation
Trim	Base / LE / XLE
Body Style	5-door SUV
Vehicle Segment	Mid-size Crossover
Vehicle Class	Sport Utility Vehicle – 4WD
Market	USA
Platform	Toyota K Platform
Assembly Plant	Georgetown, Kentucky, USA
Country of Origin	USA
Production Start	2008
Production End	2015
VIN Identifier	4T1
Base MSRP	$27,850
Destination Charge	$810
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	Toyota AR engine
Engine Name	1AR-FE
Engine Code	1AR-FE
Engine Configuration	Inline-4
Displacement	2.7 Liters
Bore x Stroke	90.0 mm x 105.0 mm
Compression Ratio	10.0:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Electronic Fuel Injection
Valve Train	DOHC 16-valve with VVT-i
Engine Block Material	Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	4.8 qt
Oil Specification / Viscosity	0W-20
Horsepower	182 hp @ 5,800 rpm
Torque	182 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm
Redline	6,200 rpm
Drivetrain	All-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S6)
Final Drive Ratio	4.398:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	20
EPA Highway MPG	26
EPA Combined MPG	22
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	10.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	17.7
Estimated Driving Range	389 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$2,100
CO₂ Emissions	404 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	5
Smog Rating	6
Performance
0-30 mph	3.5 s
0-60 mph	9.2 s
0-100 mph	26.5 s
Quarter Mile	17.0 s
Top Speed	115 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	132 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.76 g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	21.6 lb/hp
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	189.0
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	75.0
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	–
Height (in)	63.4
Wheelbase (in)	109.3
Front Track (in)	64.0
Rear Track (in)	64.0
Ground Clearance (in)	8.1
Curb Weight (lbs)	3,935
GVWR (lbs)	5,100
Towing Capacity (lbs)	2,500
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,165
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	108.3
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	34.4
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	70.2
Turning Circle	39.4 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	4 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash	4 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash	5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover	4 Stars
IIHS Award	Top Safety Pick
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	6.1-inch Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog
Apple CarPlay	No
Android Auto	No
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	JBL Synthesis
Speaker Count	13
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	5 years / 60,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	5 years / unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance	2 years / 25,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	2 years / 25,000 miles
Hybrid Component Warranty	–
EV Battery Warranty	–
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	8.5 qt
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	150
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2009-2012 Toyota Venza 2.7L AWD is widely regarded for its exceptional build quality and interior comfort, offering a more refined experience than many contemporary mid-size SUVs. Reliability is a strong suit, as the 1AR-FE engine is known for longevity when maintained with regular oil changes; however, owners should monitor for potential oil consumption issues in higher-mileage examples and ensure the water pump and alternator are inspected, as these are common wear items. In the used market, the Venza remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a spacious, car-like driving experience without the bulk of a three-row SUV. Its combination of all-weather capability and a comfortable, quiet cabin provides high value for families, though prospective buyers should prioritize vehicles with documented service histories to avoid deferred maintenance costs.