Guangqi Toyota to bring over Venza crossover to China in 2013

Gasgoo.com (Shanghai December 24) - The Toyota Venza crossover will be coming to China next year as an imported model sold by Guangqi Toyota, Beijing News reported today. The Venza is built on the same platform as the Highlander SUV and previous generation Camry, meaning that domestic production might be a possibility in the future.

The Venza (pictured), which made its international debut in 2008, will be known as the Weisa in China, and will be sold directly via Guangqi Toyota's sales channels. The Venza measures 4.8 m long with a 2.77 m long wheelbase. It shares the same engine options as the Highlander: a 2.7 L motor and a 3.5 L one.

The Venza, which is manufactured at Toyota's Kentucky factory in the US, has managed to bring in almost 50,000 new orders in North America last year. According to Toyota, the Venza is aimed at consumers who want a vehicle that is bigger and more functional than the Camry, but not as large as the Highlander. The Venza competes directly with the Honda Crosstour, which is already being manufactured in China.