2021 Toyota Venza Review: A More Luxurious RAV4 Hybrid
Toyota Venza effectively splits the difference between the popular RAV4 Hybrid and the Lexus RX450h.
Toyota, much like competitors Chevrolet and Honda, has opted to revive a previously used nameplate with the introduction of the new 2021 Venza. And, interestingly, much like Honda has ressurrected the Passport name, as has Chevrolet with its Blazer, the Toyota Venza, like those two, is also a two-row mid-size SUV, or, at least, Toyota claims it is.
The Venza stands apart from the competition by the fact that it is hybrid-only, which gives it a notable fuel economy advantage. That hybrid gas-electric powertrain is almost identical to the 219-horsepower unit found in the smaller Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, with all-wheel drive as standard.
However, it’s not just the powertrain that Venza shares with the RAV4, but, most everything under the skin, as the two ride on the same basic platform. Venza is identical to the RAV4 Hybrid in width and wheelbase, however, it is over five-and-a-half inches longer than RAV4, overall.
While the RAV4 is handsome in a chiseled, adventurous sort of way, this visual stretch gives the Toyota Venza a notably more elegant appearance, with a long, sloping roofline which rolls into a stunning tiered tail light and trunk. It’s one of the most striking models you will find in a Toyota showroom.
Unfortunately, the visual length doesn’t translate inside, where a seemingly higher floor and more cossetting quarters are key traits of the Venza experience. Fortunately, the slightly more snug cabin evokes comparison with the Lexus RX450h. That is also, in part, due to the higher caliber of materials in the Venza, with multi-color softex synthetic leather wrapped around every surface throughout the cabin.
It also helps that Venza has cribbed some technology from the Lexus RX, as well, as this Venza Limited trim features a very similar 12.3” infotainment screen, however, unlike the Lexus, it doesn’t rely on the brand’s Remote Touch Interface (RTI) system, but, instead, is a more intuitive touch screen.
But that’s not the Venza’s technological party trick. Of the three available trim levels (LE, XLE and Limited), if you opt for the Limited trim, there is an available “Star Gaze” panoramic roof which, at the touch of a button, can go from clear to frosted glass. During the day, the frosted glass filters out harsh sunlight, leaving Venza’s cabin with a wonderful, natural filtered light effect.
ALSO SEE: Lexus LS 500 Review: Pinnacle of Japanese Luxury
This is all paired to a drive that is, for the most part, very relaxed. With the Venza, Toyota has appeared to quell some of the high-speed wind noise that is present in RAV4, making for an excellent freeway cruiser. Though, the unperturbed personality is occasionally thrown off by rough road conditions, where the rear suspension can jiggle around a bit excessively, a sensation felt through the driver’s seat.
That 219 horsepower four-cylinder hybrid powertrain is generally ample enough for the day to day commute. Just don’t try and drag race the Chevy or the Honda, unless it’s to the gas station. While the Blazer and the Passport can tap into their available potent V6 engines and roar away off the line, Venza will sail past them as merely sips the same fuel that they will guzzle.
The EPA rates the Venza at 40 MPG city, and 37 MPG freeway. After a week of driving, DBFR saw just over 37 MPG in the real world. None of its competition could even get close.
Venza’s competency comes at a price, however, as it costs about $3,000 more than a comparable RAV4 Hybrid, depending on trim level. Fully loaded, this Ruby Flare Pearl (+$425, thank you very much) Venza Limited rings in $43,525.
The pricing is very strategic on Toyota’s part, as Venza splits the difference between the RAV4 Hybrid, the more fuel efficient RAV4 Prime and the more luxury-oriented Lexus RX450h, offering a nice middle-ground choice for would-be entry-level luxury buyers who aren’t ready to step up to the more expensive Lexus, but want an experience more refined than the RAV4.
Want to see more Toyota goodness? Follow Jake on Instagram, it’s all cars all the time.
