Derek 
Overly ambitious SUVs were the über-cool family transportation choices for the 90's. Now that we are becoming more socially responsible by choosing right-size vehicles that have a smaller carbon footprint, wagons with the dynamics of a sports sedan and the utility of an SUV are filling the growing demand and are popular choice for young, small families. The difficult decision for young families has always been giving up the sporty lifestyle and trading it in for a lumbering SUV, wagon or minivan. Now there is a new generation of vehicles, such as the VW Jetta Sportwagen, BMW 3-series and 5-series Sport Wagons, and upcoming Audi Q5, filling the crossover category with vehicles that emphasize sport over utility. (Video of the all-new Toyota Venza below the jump)
"The all-new Venza was developed as a vehicle that combines the styling, comfort and fun-to-drive performance elements of a five-passenger sedan with the surprising utility of an SUV," said Bob Carter, Toyota Division group vice president and general manager. "This winning combination will be ideal for active ‘boomers' and young couples with small families."
The development focus of the Venza design team was to create a new crossover vehicle that shifted away from the more traditional SUV styling themes that tend to dominate the segment. Toyota's Calty designers leaned more heavily on a sleek sedan concept with a wide stance that featured a sporty exterior and premium comfort interior but would also be equipped with important SUV attributes such as cargo space, towing capability and all-wheel-drive performance.
Available in front-and all-wheel drive, Venza will be powered by a choice of engines – a V6 or an all-new four-cylinder. Both engines will be mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Twenty-inch wheels will only be available on V6 models. The 2009 Toyota Venza is scheduled to go on sale later this year.