After a six-year break, Toyota reintroduced the Venza as an all-new SUV for 2021 (beginning of second generation). Read our review of the 2021 Venza if you’re thinking about buying an older model to help you decide.
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The Toyota Venza was retired for what reason?
After the 2015 model year, Toyota stated that the first-generation Venza will no longer be produced. Toyota claims that this choice was made as a result of three factors: customer preference, segment competition, and declining sales.
Is the 2021 Venza a wise investment?
The Venza XLE model is the most economical option, and it sits between the LE and Limited models in the portfolio. We were able to get heated and ventilated imitation leather seats with the $510 SofTex package. During the sweltering summer days, we were grateful that vegan leather was made to retain less heat than typical leather. The 12.3-inch touchscreen with capacitive controls, navigation, and a nine-speaker JBL audio system were included as part of the $2,050 Premium Audio package. The huge screen was a wonderful update, but the touch controls for the HVAC and screen were more difficult to use than the conventional physical buttons. We also missed having knobs for the volume and radio tuning because the touch controls were so sensitive. Our Venza totaled $39,735, which is a great price given its outstanding equipment.
Even though the Venza excelled at its main task, it wasn’t flawless. Its 2.5-liter l-4 hybrid engine, which has three electric motors and a combined output of 219 horsepower, is stressed at medium throttle input and roars loudly when moving forward or passing on the motorway. Its traction control system was also finicky. When pressing the brakes while driving over a bump, rough pavement, or a steel plate, the system might momentarily stop power and lock the wheels. Even while it didn’t happen frequently, I did see it several times throughout the year.
We also criticized its cramped interior and inadequate packaging for a product of its size. Despite being longer than the RAV4, the Venza offers less room for passengers and freight. Its swoopy roofline, high cargo floor, and constrained overall design reduce the amount of cargo room.
Going to the dealer was simple. We were reminded when it was ready for service thanks to the Toyota Connected Services app, and making an appointment through the app was simple. Customers don’t spend a dime because Toyota’s maintenance plan includes typical factory scheduled services for the first two years or 25,000 miles. (We had to, though; we spent less than $200 across four visits because our Venza was a member of a fleet.)
The Venza was less expensive to maintain over time than other two-row midsize SUVs. In total, our 2015 Nissan Murano SL AWD cost us $589.76 during the course of a year. The Venza and the $77.90 we spent for our 2018 Dodge Durango V-8 long-termer are more pricey than that. Even while the two years of free maintenance are nice, we’d rather go to the dealer less frequently; the Venza has scheduled maintenance every 5,000 miles. Despite this, we never needed to go to the dealer outside of scheduled maintenance. Over the course of the year, we stayed clear of any unexpected surprises like flat tires or windshield chips.
We made a couple gas stops, and they weren’t ignored. For an SUV this size, the Venza gets 40/37/39 mpg in the city, on the highway, and in the combined cycle, according to the EPA. On average, we didn’t quite reach those statistics, but we weren’t too far off (35.1 mpg). Even so, we were able to save money at the pump, which was helpful given how much gas prices had increased by the end of 2021.
Overall, the 2021 Toyota Venza long-termer met all of our expectations. It isn’t always a fun SUV to drive, and it has flaws, but it excels at a number of things. Many people will appreciate the fact that it is cozy, has many elegant features, and is affordable. Even if its technology isn’t the best, it’s sufficient to meet some of your daily commuting needs. And the Venza is a very alluring bundle, with outstanding dependability and an IIHS Top Safety Pick certification.
Toyota plans to produce the Venza in 2022.
- Offerings that are less technologically advanced with an optional 12.3-inch touchscreen and Star GazeTM Panoramic Roof
Dallas, Texas (Dec. 15, 2021) The 2022 Venza offers a sophisticated driving experience with effortless acceleration, predictable handling, and minimal noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). The Venza combines comfortable city and highway performance together with exceptional fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 39 combined MPG rating, thanks to its distinctive Toyota Hybrid System II powertrain and cutting-edge Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive system.
The Venza has enough of space for five people and is quite nimble. It also has a number of additional tech options, including as a 12.3-inch touchscreen with nine JBL speakers, a 7-inch multi-information display (MID), a digital rear-view mirror, and a 10-inch color Head-Up Display. A Star GazeTM fixed panoramic glass roof and heated and ventilated front seats are further optional features that create the ideal environment for authentic, elegant grand touring.
A variation of the Toyota New Global Architecture K platform, which also supports some of the company’s sedans and crossovers, serves as the foundation for the 2022 Venza. As a result, Venza offers the best of both worlds: CUV flexibility and sedan-like driving comfort.
Three electric motors are combined with a highly efficient 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine to create the new-generation Toyota Hybrid System seen in the Venza. The gas engine uses a VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing Intelligent Electric Motor) on the intake camshaft and a VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing Intelligent) on the exhaust camshaft. Further enhancing engine economy are a fully variable oil pump and a variable cooling system (electric water pump and thermostat).
The tried-and-true technology generates 219 system horsepower total and an EPA-estimated 39 combined MPG. The way the electric motor increases low-speed torque enhances the impression of everyday acceleration and responsiveness, as it does with other Toyota hybrids. Without running the engine at high rpm, the hybrid system optimizes the level of electric motor assistance and gas engine RPM. The synchronization of engine and vehicle speeds results in smooth and quiet acceleration. A lithium-ion battery is also used in the hybrid system of the Venza to improve performance, size, and weight.
The Venza’s performance personality may be customized by the driver using the NORMAL, ECO, and SPORT driving modes. The throttle response is improved and sharpened in SPORT mode, making fuel efficiency more enjoyable. While NORMAL mode is best for regular driving, ECO mode alters the throttle and environmental logic to assist the driver concentrate on getting the most out of the fuel and batteries. Additionally, the EV mode enables short-distance, low-speed electric-only driving.
The driver can sequentially shift using a feature that “When driving in hilly terrain, for instance, downshifting to step-up the regenerative braking promotes more control. Additionally, by precisely regulating the driving torque to reduce pitch during acceleration and deceleration, the hybrid system improves ride comfort.
The widespread usage of high-strength steel contributes to the TNGA-K platform’s inherent strength. This enables the front strut and rear multi-link suspensions to be tuned for handling agility and a quiet, comfortable ride.
An electronically controlled brake system with Active Cornering Assist (ACA), which activates the stability control to lessen understeer in specific cornering circumstances, improves the handling of the Venza. The driver simply notices the increased agility, not how the mechanism is working.
When setting off or cornering on normal or slick roads, the hybrid system uses a differential torque pre-load function to improve acceleration and deceleration controllability. Additionally, the function contributes to improved straight-line stability, controllability, and steering performance at higher speeds.
While the XLE and Limited come standard with 19-inch multi-spoke super chrome polished alloy wheels, the 2022 Venza LE rides on 18-inch multi-spoke two-tone alloy wheels.
Toyota’s Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive, a highly effective technology that maximizes the advantages of the hybrid powertrain, is a standard feature on the 2022 Venza. Electronic On-Demand AWD uses a separate, rear-mounted electric motor to power the back wheels as necessary rather than a transfer case and driveshaft.
In order to prevent front wheel slip during off-the-line starts, it preemptively distributes up to 80% of driving force to the rear wheels. The technology also helps to lessen understeer, which improves cornering agility.
The distribution of torque varies depending on the situation, going from 100:0 for constant-speed driving to 20:80 for slick roads. The Multi-information Display and audio system panel can show torque distribution.
Keeping outside noise out is crucial for clients who demand quality experiences in a car. The cabin of the 2022 Venza is remarkably quiet. Instead of just shooting at a “Toyota engineers designed a quiet environment suitable to having easy conversation or hearing music in clearer detail by setting an objective for sound level (decibels).
The first line of defense against noise incursion, which reduces vibration through the steering, floor, and structure, is the high-strength TNGA-K platform. An acoustic glass windshield helps reduce wind noise, while suspension tuning resists disruptions of the road surface. Insulation is strategically positioned to help reduce tire noise.
That’s only the start. Under the flooring and above the headliner, body sealing material and sound-absorbing insulation are positioned throughout the building. To reduce noise in the frequencies that frequently disrupt speech, the materials and their placement were carefully considered.
For instance, the floor silencer pad is made up of a single piece rather of several smaller ones. Surface coverage consequently reaches roughly 92 percent. To further reduce road noise, sound-dampening material is inserted into holes and spaces between components.
Under the hood, the engine compartment is surrounded by sound-absorbing insulation that helps reduce intake noise. This is made possible by the installation of two unique resonance chambers, which assist reduce air intake noise in the 530Hz and 650Hz bands.
The TNGA-K platform offers excellent crash protection, but the 2022 Venza also has Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 2.0), a complete suite of active safety systems that includes:
- Daytime bicyclist detection is part of the pre-collision system’s daytime/low-light vehicle and pedestrian detection capabilities (PCS)
- a dynamic radar cruise control with a full speed range (DRCC)
- LDA w/SA stands for Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist.
- Automatic High Beams (AHB)
- Support for Lane Tracing (LTA)
- Road Sign Support (RSA)
In the event that the driver does not react quickly enough to an emergency scenario, the Pre-Collision System with Daytime/Low-Light Vehicle and Pedestrian Detection, as well as Daytime Bicyclist Detection, is intended to give autonomous braking capability. The XLE and Limited include Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automated Braking (PA w/AB), while Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) is standard on all grades. Additionally, fog lights are now included as standard on the Limited grade for improved visibility.
Predictive Efficient Drive (PED), a feature of the Venza, analyzes driving patterns and keeps track of traffic and road conditions to aid maximize hybrid battery charging. When the driver opts for PED, the system is programmed to memorize recurrent routes and understand when and where the car is most likely to slow down or stop. Then, it can contribute to lowering energy consumption through optimal accelerator pedal release timing guidance.
PED can assist in maximizing battery charging and discharging before slopes or traffic jams. For instance, the system is made to deliver greater engine braking force while approaching a downhill stretch so that the hybrid battery can be charged more effectively after the accelerator pedal is withdrawn.
Venza offers exceptional comfort thanks to its standard power seats (8-way driver on all grades and 4-way passenger on Limited). An automatic slide-away option is available on the motorized driver’s seat. The seat automatically moves to the rearmost position when the driver enters or exits the vehicle to facilitate entry and exit. The seat returns to the last setting the driver set when the Venza is started. The Limited grade of the Venza comes equipped with distinctive seat bolster stitching, which adds to the seats’ stylishness as well as comfort.
Three degrees of adjustment are offered for the heated front seats on the Venza. On Limited models, ventilated front seats are standard equipment that adds comfort by drawing cool air from the air conditioning system into the seat.
S-FLOW cooling technology, which debuted on Lexus, is used in the Venza. The technology provides comfort and aids in reducing energy use by only directing air cooling to occupied seats. On the Limited and XLE with the 12.3-in display, the temperature control system is operated through Intelligent Touch capacitive controls.
The Venza offers plenty of inside room while taking up little outside space. The middle stack tray can hold the largest iPhone models, while cupholders can hold huge drink sizes. 24-ounce bottles fit in door bottle holders.
Venza provides 28.8 cubic feet of storage space for bags behind the second row. The lithium-ion battery pack can be tucked away behind the back seats, freeing up space for additional passengers or baggage. When not in use, the typical tonneau cover can be kept in the area beneath the deck board.
The cutting-edge entertainment and connection offered by the 2022 Venza are provided by Toyota’s user-friendly and adaptable audio systems. An 8-inch touchscreen is part of the basic Audio Plus package for LE and XLE models. The beautiful 12.3-inch touchscreen display of the Premium Audio with Dynamic Navigation and JBL is standard on Limited and available on XLE. The controls may be swapped between front passenger and driver use.
Toyota audio systems offer a wide range of connectivity features in addition to AM/FM radio, such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility, Bluetooth wireless technology, and more. Siri is available through Apple CarPlay, and Google Assistant is available through Android Auto.
All Venza trims have a 3-month trial subscription to SiriusXM’s Platinum Plan Satellite Radio, HD Radio, and Toyota Remote Services. Enhanced 2D landmark displays, land guidance displays, and freeway exit displays are available elements of dynamic navigation. All Venza vehicles will include a one-year trial subscription to Toyota Safety Connect as standard equipment.
For all musical genres, the basic 6-speaker audio system with 4-channel amplifier delivers clear, strong sound. The most potent audio system offered in a Toyota to date, the musical beauty JBL Premium Audio System features 9 speakers, including a rear subwoofer, and is driven by a 12-channel, 1,200-watt amp. It was created specifically for the Venza with a novel speaker architecture and optimized for the distinct cabin environment.
The most notable feature of the Venza is actually located on top of the car. The 2022 Venza boasts an optional Star GazeTM fixed panoramic glass roof, a first for Toyota. Using the ON/OFF button, drivers may quickly convert from transparent to frosted modes thanks to the Star GazeTM electrochromic glass technology. Star GazeTM’s frosted mode makes the cabin feel even more open, airy, and welcoming by brightening the interior while limiting direct sunlight.
The driver is surrounded by technology that improves visibility. While the XLE and Limited grades get a 7-inch color MID, the Venza LE grade has a 4.2-inch color MID. A Hybrid System Indicator on either display indicates the driver system output and regeneration status to promote eco-friendly driving practices. The display offers a game-like score feature for the driver and advises the ideal acceleration level for eco driving, as it does on previous Toyota hybrid cars.
A 10-inch color Head-Up Display is an option that presents important data at eye level, such as the hybrid system indicator, the speedometer, and TSS 2.0 features.
The 2018 Toyota Venza’s optional digital rearview mirror with HomeLink universal transceiver aids the driver in seeing what is behind the car. A switch on the digital rearview mirror is intended to give the driver a wide, unobstructed view from a back camera if rear passengers or cargo is obstructing the view behind. The mirror also aids in lowering headlight glare. The Limited grade has a standard Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan, which offers a wide-angle overview of the area around the vehicle and improves outside visibility.
An optional rear camera cleaning system sprays washer fluid to remove water droplets, dirt, snow, and snow-melting road treatments from the lens of the backup camera’s standard projected path and dynamic gridlines. A typical hands-free power liftgate can be programmed to lock itself as it closes. For added convenience, the Smart Key System that operates on all five doors is standard on the XLE and Limited classes.
*Prices are MSRPs (manufacturer suggested retail prices) minus the $1,215 delivery, processing, and handling fee.
All parts, excluding those that would typically require wear and maintenance, are covered by Toyota’s standard 36-month/36,000-mile new-vehicle guarantee. Additional 60-month warranties have no mileage restrictions and cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles as well as perforation from corrosion for 60 months. When sold as new, hybrid-related components are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first, from the date of first usage for repairs necessary to address material or workmanship flaws. The HV battery has a ten-year/150,000-mile warranty that is transferred from one owner to the next.
ToyotaCare, a free program that covers routine factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, as well as two years of roadside assistance, regardless of mileage, are also included as standard equipment on the 2022 Venza.