The biggest change for the 2011 Toyota Venza from its 2010 siblings is a direct result of Toyota’s recent safety issues. This five-passenger midsize crossover now comes equipped with a standard brake-override system that allows the braking system to activate if the accelerator sticks. Otherwise, this cute ute offers essentially the same lineup, features, and look as last year. Though available in only the Base trim level, the Venza can be delivered in either standard front-wheel-drive (FWD) or available all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration, and with either the standard four-cylinder or the available V6 engine. A capacious 70 cubic feet of cargo space (with the rear seats folded), user-friendly controls, commanding driving height, and roomy, comfortable seating again grace this nimble crossover, and the fact that it was a “Top Safety Pick” with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, despite the sinking reputation of its maker, should be enough to convince many families to at least kick a tire or two. Though the Venza was not implicated in Toyota’s late quality fiasco, the automaker is now making doubly certain that most of its products are unimpeachably safe. Rivals, however, in the form of Ford’s Edge, Nissan’s Murano, Honda’s controversial Accord Crosstour, and Subaru’s Outback, will doubtless give the 2011 Venza all the competition it can handle.

Powering the 2011 Venza is a standard 2.7-liter inline four-cylinder (I4) engine. When combined with the standard six-speed auto-manual transmission with brake hill holder, the variable-valve-timed (VVT) I4 puts out 182 hp and 182 lb-ft of torque to the tune of 21/27 mpg with FWD and 20/25 with AWD. Trailer towing, meantime, is maxed out at 2,500 pounds. For those with a need for speed, a 268-hp 3.5-liter V6 powerplant is available, again partnered with the standard six-speed auto-manual for 246 lb-ft of torque. Again with VVT, the six-banger is good for 19/26 with FWD and 18/25 with AWD. Trailer towing is, obviously, upped a bit to 3,500 pounds.

For 2011, the Venza comes well-stocked with appearance features and standard amenities, including 19-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, cloth upholstery, power adjustable driver’s seat, reclining rear seatbacks, front and overhead consoles, universal remote garage door opener, dual-zone climate controls simulated carbon fiber accents, a single-CD player with six speakers, XM satellite radio, Bluetooth technology, and a USB connection. Furthermore, V6-equipped Venzas are equipped with standard 20-inch alloy wheels.

Options, meantime, include leather upholstery, heated front seats, a rear-view camera, power liftgate, push-button start, power-adjustable front passenger seat, voice-activated DVD navigation, JBL premium surround-sound audio, rear-seat DVD entertainment, tow prep package, and last, but certainly not least, a power sunroof. Most options are integrated into various packages, though the sunroof, towing prep package, and rear-seat entertainment are stand-alone add-ons.

The safety-conscious 2011 Venza, in addition to its standard brake override system, also sports four-wheel ABS, traction and stability control, dual front side-mounted airbags, a driver’s knee airbag, front and rear head airbags, daytime running lights, front fog/driving lights, and front head restraint whiplash protection.

Most of the 2010 Venza’s pluses and minuses are seemingly in the eye of the beholder. Owners seem to regard mileage as better than most in the class but not yet where it could be. A ragged ride, especially for rear seat passengers, is a concern for many owners, though more than a few others laud the Venza for its car-like handling. A lack of build quality is pointed out by several owners, while others are pleased with this crossover’s reliability and resale value. Looks, however, as well as cabin and cargo space, comfortable seats, and a load of standard features make this snazzy midsize ute a winner in the eyes of most owners.