Toyota Venza Vs. Toyota Verso
In Europe, a Corolla sized wagon called Verso is making its way through tight, century old streets. In the US, Venza commercials are on every break during prime time TV – and projected sales for the larger, Camry type crossover look good. So, is one better than the other?
Europe's Toyota Verso
The 2009 Toyota Verso has seating for seven passengers in three rows, with some Toyota iQ inspired engineering and style touches. The Verso will be on sale this April with a choice of two gasoline and two diesel engines. They love that diesel overseas. Gasoline engine choices will include a new 1.6 and 1.8 Valvematic mated to a 6-speed manual or Toyota’s Multidrive S CVT. You can also choose the 2.0 or 2.2 D-4D engines.
North America's Toyota Venza
2009′s US Based Toyota Venza is a late entry for the Japanese auto maker in the crossover segment. The Corolla sedan influenced front end and vehicle silhouette is pretty sporty for a Toyota. The rear end reminds us more of a Volvo S series wagon, which wrap around the rear pillars.
North American engine choices are a 2.7 liter 4-cylinder engine or a 3.5 liter V6 engine. Production model Venza can hit up past 20-inches on the alloy wheel size, and will be offered to buyers in either front or four-wheel drive.
So it seems only size matters when it comes down to which new Toyota wagon is for you – well that and your geographical location. We’ll be anxious to see if the a rebranded Verso will come to the US of A to compete with Nissan’s Versa…so many 5-lettered V-word cars!
Just returned from Europe where I learned that the Venza is offered there with a diesel. Why do we North Americans not have a diesel offered here? I do not believe that we do not want one as witnessed by the number of VW diesels available. Four years ago I would have to go on a waiting list for a VW Jetta diesel. I had decided that I would purchase a Venza this summer or fall but now question that I will. Does the oil industry hold sway here?
Brian Markle
I want to buy toyota venza but cannot find european dealer