Toyota Venza 2023 review

Toyota Venza: Designed initially as a low-sling crossover based on the Camry sedan, Toyota cancelled the Venza in 2015 because it seemed to have arrived too soon to capitalize on the surge in popularity of crossovers. They revived the concept in 2021, and the Venza moniker is now used for a small crossover with five seats that are 186.6 inches in size and only available with all-wheel drive (AWD). Although it shares most of its hybrid components with the Lexus NX and RAV4 Hybrid, it is more expensive and has fewer amenities than the latter.

Holding a unique market niche, Venza caters to those seeking a step up but not ready for a Lexus. Toyota hasn’t made significant changes to it since its resuscitation. Venza’s driver-assist technology will be improved in 2023, and a new multimedia system including USB-A and USB-C connections will be included in all trim levels. A 12.3-inch touchscreen is standard on the XLE, while rain-sensing wipers and a head-up display are added to the Limited. The new Nightshade trim level, a blackout-trim version of the XLE, is offered in LE, XLE, Nightshade, and Limited.

Its rivals include the RAV4 and NX and hybrid versions of the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, and Hyundai Tucson. Although it has less luggage space and rear-seat legroom than most competitors, it is more potent than the Escape or CR-V and has similar fuel efficiency. It employs a lighter, more energy-dense lithium-ion battery than the RAV4’s nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery. However, both are still protected by the RAV4’s original warranty for ten years or 150,000 miles. The RAV4 and this vehicle share the same engine and hybrid system.

A 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that produces 175 horsepower when used alone and 219 horsepower when paired with its electric motors powers the standard hybrid powertrain between the Venza and RAV4. The AWD system powers the back wheels with an electric motor when necessary. Although it isn’t the best off-roader, it can provide more traction on slick or rainy roads and may be used in snow. The hybrid system automatically alternates between using gas, electricity, or both, depending on the driving circumstances. Although the engine may be louder than you would imagine when accelerating, it has adequate power to overtake on a highway.

The purpose of the EV (electric vehicle) mode button is to keep the car running only on battery power at low speeds. However, the system already accomplishes that, and it just takes a little pressure on the throttle to override it, so it’s useless. Regenerative braking is how the battery is refilled and not plugged in. The Venza’s excellent handling and serene, comfortable ride make for a pleasurable driving experience. All models are equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the chairs are supportive with simple controls.

Prices for the Limited range from $35,455, which includes a $1,335 delivery cost, to $43,600. The top-trim Venza costs more than $1,400 (with delivery), more than the starting price of the least-priced Lexus NX 350h, so the Toyota is a better choice for anyone looking for some luxury at a cheaper cost. Yes, in exchange for its Lexus-lite design, it gives up some utility and cargo capacity compared to the RAV4, but it still has enough space. Although it isn’t flawless, the Venza has enough advantages—including a respectable fuel economy—to be taken a closer look.

What’s New

• Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 2.0 to 2.5+ driver-assistance technologies now have enhanced capabilities and a high-resolution camera.
• Utilizing XLE characteristics, the Nightshade dark-accent look trim increases.
• The XLE has a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Nightshade and standard LED fog lights.
• All trim levels come equipped with a new wireless charger, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an enhanced multimedia system with upgraded USB connections.
• Rain-sensing wipers and a head-up display are now standard on the Limited level.
• Blizzard Pearl exterior colour is replaced with Wind Chill.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain
• Comfortable interior
• Lexus-like look and feel at a Toyota price

Cons

• Growly engine on acceleration
• Rivals have more cargo space
• Unusual console limits small-item storage

Performance:Toyota Venza

The hybrid powertrain used in all Venza grade levels combines a 2.5-litre gasoline engine with two electric motors for assistance. When the electric motors are engaged, the engine may produce up to 219 horsepower in addition to its own 176 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque. An automatic continuously variable gearbox (CVT) transfers power to the front wheels.

Standard equipment includes an all-wheel drive (AWD), which uses a third electric motor to power the back wheels when necessary. Compared to a mechanical connection, AWD uses less weight and gasoline. Its purpose is to enhance handling and traction rather than off-roading. Although other rivals have a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds, the Venza has no towing rating.

Depending on the driving situation, the hybrid system automatically alternates between using electricity, gas, or a mix of the two. Regenerative braking is used to charge the battery instead of plugging it in. The Venza offers enough power for daily driving and overtaking at highway speeds despite its lack of speed and sometimes loud engine during acceleration. The ride is calm and pleasant, and the steering is light and fluid. While its performance isn’t awe-inspiring, driving it is generally enjoyable.

Fuel Efficiency: Toyota Venza

The EPA rates the 2023 Toyota Venza at 40 mpg in the city, 37 mpg on the interstate, and 39 mg overall. Like most mainstream competitors, it operates on regular-grade, 87-octane gasoline. However, if you’re comparing it to its cousin, the Lexus NX 350h, which has a comparable hybrid powertrain, remember that the Lexus recommends premium-grade fuel.

Only the Toyota RAV4, which shares Venza’s hybrid technology, achieves superior combined fuel efficiency among Venza’s significant all-wheel-drive hybrid competitors at 40 mpg. The Honda CR-V achieves 37 mpg, the Hyundai Tucson gets 37 or 38 mpg, depending on the grade, and the Ford Escape hybrid achieves 39 mpg combined, matching the Venza. Compared to non-hybrid small SUVs like the Volkswagen Tiguan, these hybrids are much more efficient.

Driver assistance and safety:

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awards the Venza the highest possible five-star crash test rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awards it a Top Safety Pick, citing it as “Good” in the majority of tests but “Acceptable” in the new side-crash test, which more closely resembles being hit by a big SUV. It also receives “Good+” ratings for the use of the LATCH child seat tethers, “Acceptable” ratings for the headlights, and “Superior” ratings for the front accident prevention system.

With an enhanced radar and camera, the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 2.0 standard system on the Venza will be improved to TSS 2.5+ for 2023. Front collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assistance, automatic high-beam headlights, road sign assistance, adaptive front braking, and lane tracing are all included in the package.

The required rearview camera and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic warnings are standard in all grades. Further features include front and back parking sensors, emergency rear brakes on all except the basic LE model, and a 360-degree overhead camera on the top-tier Limited trim.

Coziness & Space:

In keeping with its rivals, the Venza provides 39 inches of headroom for passengers in the backseat and 38.6 inches for front seats. The headroom in the front seats is unaffected by a panoramic sunroof, which is an option on all trim levels except the basic model, while the headroom in the back seats decreases to 36.9 inches. The Ford Escape features 42.4 inches of front-seat legroom, somewhat less than the Hyundai Tucson and Honda CR-V’s 40.9 inches.

Most rear-seat passengers will find the Venza’s 37.8 inches of legroom sufficient. Still, it falls short of competitors’ offerings, with the Tucson coming in first at 41.3 inches—virtually full-size SUV territory.

The front seats of the Venza are comfortable and well-cushioned. In the primary LE, they are cloth-clad, and the driver’s seat has power adjustments. The Limited, XLE, and Nightshade models include a motorized passenger seat and have leather-look upholstery. The front seats on the XLE and Nightshade have heating features; on the Limited, they also have ventilation. On a prolonged journey, the front seats will be the most comfortable since the back seats aren’t as well-padded. Only the most considerable bumps enter the cabin throughout the calm trip.

Infotainment:Toyota Venza

The touchscreen on the base LE is 8.0 inches. This was formerly installed on the XLE, but the 12.3-inch screen seen on the Limited is now standard on that trim and its new Nightshade variant. A new multimedia system that supports both screen sizes comes with an upgraded wireless charger, one USB Type-A and two USB Type-C ports, over-the-air updates, and a trial membership to linked services. This intelligent assistant manages music controls, navigation, and cabin temperature. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now wireless.

The 12.3-inch central screen is reminiscent of a tablet, with an easy-to-use interface using side icons that open menus for music, phone, navigation, and settings. Certain services, such as phone calls and radio volume, may be managed using buttons on the steering wheel. Three buttons on the infotainment system allow you to adjust the volume and switch the music system on/off. Although it is slower to operate than a dial, it is still preferable to dragging a digital volume controller across the screen.

Storage & Cargo Space:

The cargo area of the Venza is on the smaller side of the class, measuring 28.8 cubic feet with the back seats folding and 55.1 cubic feet with them up. The Hyundai Tucson has 38.7 cubic feet behind the back seat, the Honda CR-V delivers 39.3 cubic feet, and the Ford Escape has 34.4 cubic feet behind the chair. The rear of the Toyota RAV4, comparable to the Venza, has 37.5 cubic feet while having a length over six inches less.

A hands-free power liftgate is standard on all Venza trims; nonetheless, the opening is not particularly wide, and it requires much effort to reach the somewhat high load floor (caused by the hybrid battery pack). The Venza has roomy door pockets up front, but there isn’t much space for functional smaller-item storage in the oddly formed console.

Design: Toyota Venza

With its sculpted front, tastefully placed chrome highlights, and sloping back window—albeit with considerable loss of rear visibility—the elegant Venza resembles a Lexus rather than a Toyota. While all other levels come with standard LED headlights and rear illumination, the primary LE has 18-inch wheels, while all other trims have 19-inch wheels. The Nightshade adds gloss black wheels, blacked-out door handles, emblems, and grille.

Venza’s dashboard has conceptual similarities with the RAV4, but it has a unique design element that draws attention: a tall centre console that extends far into the open centre stack. Although it isn’t as luxurious as a Lexus, the inside is still decent for the money.

Is the 2023 Toyota Venza worth it?

Venza’s pricing is by where it sits in the manufacturer’s portfolio. With shipping costs included, the price ranges from $35,455 for the LE to $43,600 for the Limited. On the other hand, the Lexus NX 350h starts at around $45,000, while the RAV4 Hybrid starts at $32,060. Other competitors with all-wheel drive and hybrid drivetrains include the Hyundai Tucson ($32,485), Honda CR-V ($35,745), and Ford Escape ($36,535).

The XLE is probably the Venza model that most customers will look at. LED fog lights, an auto-dimming mirror, heated leather-look seats, and a 12.3-inch centre screen cost $39,665 more than the standard specification. For an extra $1,125, the XLE with black style elements is the new Nightshade version.

How Much Does Toyota Venza Insurance Cost?

Insurance for the Toyota Venza is comparable to those of its competitors. Our analysis indicates that, on average, a 30-year-old female driver with a spotless record should pay an annual premium of $1,971, but this figure applies to all 50 states. In contrast, the Honda CR-V Hybrid costs $1,920, the Hyundai Tucson Blue costs $1,963, the Lexus NX costs $2,282, and the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV costs $2,340.

Toyota Venza Generations

Second Generation
2021 to Present

In 2021, the Venza brand was brought back to life as a tiny crossover with all-wheel drive and solely hybrid power, modelled after the Japanese Harrier SUV. Additionally, it is now positioned as a more luxurious on-road crossover, emphasizing ride comfort and fuel efficiency. It includes a wide range of standard technologies.

First Generation
2008 to 2015

The original Venza was designed with active empty-nesters in mind, who want a bigger car to fit their lifestyle rather than transport kids around. It was based on the Toyota Camry sedan. Because of its very specialized readership, it was discontinued in 2015.

Verdict

Middle of the range for the carmaker is the only hybrid model, the Toyota Venza. Although they all share platforms and hybrid system components, it is more luxurious than the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid but not as elegant as the Lexus NX. The Venza’s load space is not as great as that of the RAV4, and it may make noise while accelerating. Still, other than that, it’s a beautiful, well-equipped, and comfortable vehicle that should appeal to people seeking a little more luxury without going into Lexus territory. It will get improved driver-assist safety technology, several new features, and an appearance package with Nightshade in 2023.