2010 Toyota Venza Adds USB Port Standard

One of my biggest gripes about some newly designed cars is the lack of a USB connector for iPods and digital music files. Some automakers like Kia and Hyundai make this feature standard on even their cheapest cars, while others only include a USB connector with expensive option packages. When I reviewed the all-new Venza last year, I was shocked that it didn’t even offer a USB connector, not even with the expensive navigation and sound system option packages. I railed about this loudly in my review and on this blog's comment section — as well as to the Toyota brass.

It seems they listened. For 2010, the Venza will include a USB/iPod port as well as Bluetooth streaming audio as standard on all trim levels. The company says the USB port allows for full control of an iPod through stereo and steering-wheel controls.

The base price of the 2010 Venza ratchets up $300 to start at $26,275, excluding destination charges. The 2010 model goes on sale this November.

2009|Toyota|Venza

Toyota Venza and Lexus RX Are Top Safety Picks

The all-new 2009 Toyota Venza and redesigned 2010 Lexus RX received Top Safety Pick awards from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. To earn Top Safety Pick status, vehicles must rank Good — the institute’s top crash rating — in front, side and rear impacts. They also must be equipped with electronic stability control.

The two models join 20 other Top Safety Picks in the midsize SUV category. Cars.com’s David Thomas recently reviewed the new Venza and thought it was an attractive buy for small families. Mike Hanley took on the updated Lexus, which is one of the company’s most popular models.

2010 Lexus RX 450h review (Cars.com) 
2009 Toyota Venza video (Cars.com)

Stereo Bluetooth Streaming Available Today for iPhone

Folks with tech-savvy stereos in their new cars — Toyota Venza and 2010 Toyota Prius owners, we're looking at you — rejoice. Today, Apple released its iPhone 3.0 upgrade to all current iPhone 3Gs. The upgrades will be standard on the new iPhone 3G S out Friday.

One feature is stereo Bluetooth streaming, a technology called A2DP. We've detailed this tech before in regard to the Toyota Venza. You can watch the video above for a quick look at how the technology works. The 2010 Subaru Legacy will also feature an optional stereo supporting Bluetooth streaming.

2009 Toyota Venza Video

Toyota went with an aggressive, unique look for the new Venza, and Cars.com reviewer David Thomas wonders if this startling design will attract buyers or turn them off. It would be a shame if it did keep them from taking a look because, as he notes in his video review of the 2009 model, the Toyota Venza has a lot to offer, especially for the right-sized family.

2009|Toyota|Venza