The Venza is kind of an odd duck, for sure. It shared the platform with the Lexus RX and was supposed to fill the spot of a Camry wagon. They were always compared to the Subaru Outback and Honda Crosstour in the press when they came out. The last one really was a good car. Aside from one set of tires and a bunch of oil changes, the only thing I can recall having to do to it was replace a belt tensioner at @ 150k. I always thought it was a little thirsty for a (181hp) 4cyl but not horrible. 25-26mpg running 75 on the freeway. It'd get over 30 if we kept it under 65. Power was adequate but the 6speed would really hunt if I was towing my dad's box trailer. The new one has a (268hp) V6 so I expect the obvious differences.
I think the target audience was really empty-nesters over soccer moms. They really shine on road trips, especially if you are riding in the back seat. Huge amount of leg room and reclining rear seats. This one has the PanoRoof, which is a dual sunroof/moonroof combo. I actually didn't want this option and will likely never open it. The car was just too clean otherwise to walk away from.
BTW
fleming442, the current generation Venza shares the drivetrain with your wife's Rav4. Different suspension though. All of the new Venzas are AWD hybrids with an all electric rear drive and they claim 39mpg. What is she getting with hers?