pbm317

Never enough in the mindsets of today's automotive executives.

Midsize 2 row's have been growing again. Grand Cherokee, Murano, Santa Fe and Edge now find the Blazer and Passport, and Atlas Cross Sport creating more action once again. I think something like this Venza/Harrier could likely end up replacing Avalon.

Kira X

iTrader: (24)

That seems to be the case. There’s too many crossovers these days.

tex2670

Yes, but I'm sure Toyota believes that theirs will be better than the competition. Why concede a lucrative segment of the market that you think you can capture?

Toys4RJill

I definitely agree

Kira X

iTrader: (24)

That’s a good point. I could see the Harrier doing pretty well since it’s smaller than the Highlander but bigger than the Rav4.

tex2670

If Nissan can sell all those Muranos, why can't Toyota sell a direct competitor which we all know will be better in almost every way?

pbm317

Toyota absolutely can, it's just do they believe the net corporate sum of their buyers, who are likely mostly split between RAV4's and Highlanders currently and maybe a handful of 4Runner buyers and some current Avalon intenders, will be more positive with the introduction of this 2-row Midsize SUV? We've already discussed to no end that Highlander is already on the smaller end of the 3-row competitive. I have my own friends who have RX-L's used simply as a 2 row with better cargo room than the current RX.

So would they move enough buyers out of RAV4's into this Harrier/Venza (and presumably it would be more profitable) and also potentially move some people down out of the Highlander, which could potentially reduce revenue and profits based on positioning, to make a net positive contribution to the overall corporation?

RX469

iTrader: (1)

I also think they could put effort (though little, from their current parts-bin), into making this a bit of a real sporty, from their line up of family-oriented, SUVs to make it stand out for the younger generation/families. I'm clearly not saying making it a hot-rod SUV like the BMW X or MB AMG, but they could have an SUV with some decent driving dynamics for a younger generation. This would at least be a refreshing welcome than just another, stodgy SUV.

A subtle stock body kit, not overly priced like a TRD kit, slightly larger sway bars, at least a little less wheel gap.

What's not to like.