The Venza is only available as a hybrid. It is propelled by a system that combines a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder gas engine with three electric motors to provide 219 horsepower. The Venza has standard all-wheel drive, with the gasoline engine and the other two electric motors turning the front wheels while one of the electric motors powers the rear wheels. We were let down by the Venza’s driving characteristics during our test drive because it didn’t provide the smooth ride we were hoping for. Its performance was likewise subpar at our test track, taking 7.6 seconds to reach 60 mph, 1.5 seconds slower than the Passport.
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Is the Toyota Venza exclusively a hybrid?
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.
- Auxiliary 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. The temperature control system on the Limited and XLE with the optional 12.3-in touchscreen is controlled via 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.
Exists a non-hybrid Venza model?
The Toyota Venza is back for 2021, completely redesigned with all-wheel drive, better fuel efficiency, cutting-edge technology, and a cozy, design-focused interior.
First-generation Venza was a crossover designed with active empty-nesters in mind. It made its debut in 2008 but was discontinued in 2015 after struggling to connect with its target market and losing out to Toyota’s own RAV4 compact crossover and Highlander three-row SUV in terms of sales. The revived, second-generation 2021 Venza is still a five-passenger crossover, but the only thing that distinguishes it from its previous incarnation is its name.
The Venza is a plug-in hybrid, right?
According to the Japanese journal, Toyota will make some improvements to the Harrier, also known as the Venza in the United States, in October 2022. As part of this update, the business will unveil the plug-in hybrid system. The electrified Venza system “should be built on the same 2.5L engine as the RAV4 plug-in hybrid,” according to the manufacturer (RAV4 Prime).
The A25A-FXS 2.5-liter Dynamic Force Engine used in the RAV4 plug-in hybrid, which is in short supply in the US, generates 177 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 165 lb.-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. This engine is assisted by two motors: a 4NM motor at the back and a 5NM motor up front. The 179 horsepower and 199 lb.-ft. of torque produced by the 5NM motor. The 4NM motor produces 89 lb.-ft of torque and 53 horsepower. 302 hp is the total net power of the engine and electric motors. Energy is stored in an 18.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, and the charging process takes 2.5 hours using an AC 6.6 kW charger.
The Toyota Venza PHEV’s introduction in the United States is unknown. A new Venza, however, is not one among the models Toyota plans to sell in the United States in 2022, according to a regional internal document from New York that was leaked. The document described the year’s launch schedule. Notably, Toyota has said nothing about the Venza Prime model, of which it sold a meager 5,128 units in the US in 2021.
Is the Venza a plug-in hybrid for 2021?
The onboard lithium-ion battery pack of the Venza powers its electric propulsion motors, which are recharged by a third motor that serves as a generator when the vehicle is running on gasoline. This cannot be charged from an external power source because it is not a plug-in hybrid.
Why is Venza not well-known?
The 2021 Toyota Venza is ranked third among two-row midsize SUVs by KBB. It also has a starting price that is considerably higher than the two SUVs that are rated ahead of it at $33,645. The Hyundai Santa Fe and the Subaru Outback are KBB’s top two picks. These models have respective starting prices of $28,385 and $28,070. That is significantly less expensive than what Toyota is giving.
As was already established, Toyota vehicles typically cost less than comparable premium vehicles. Not to mention, clients are more likely to spend money on a Toyota due to its reliability. However, it’s difficult to rationalize spending an additional $5,000 when the model from 2021 is out of date. especially when reputable experts like KBB claim that the less expensive SUV options are superior in general.
The 2021 Toyota Venza is a fantastic two-row midsize SUV, but it has some flaws. The packaging, infotainment system, and price are a few reasons not to get one. It’s challenging to endorse the SUV due to a lack of interior space, even when compared to its smaller sister. Last but not least, the out-of-date infotainment system makes the high pricing look worse.
What distinguishes the Toyota Venza LE from the XLE?
The Venza is being brought back to Toyota’s range for 2021 after a brief absence. Its entire length places it squarely between the Highlander and the RAV4. The only way to get a 2021 Toyota Venza is as a hybrid, which is interesting. Since Toyota has done so well in the hybrid sector, buyers should anticipate the Venza to have a ton of fantastic features. There are three distinct trims available, all of which are described here.
Here is a quick overview of the Venza’s measurements before discussing how the trims differ from one another. After all, SUV buyers value size since they depend on their vehicles to fulfill their needs. With 37.8 inches of legroom, the second row of the Venza is quite roomy. The 22.8 cubic feet of cargo space is located behind that row of seats. When the back seats are folded down, there is an additional 55.1 cubic feet of cargo space available.
Under the hood of the Venza, all trims share the same parts. Both electric motors and 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engines are employed. 219 horsepower are produced by combining the two power sources.
As a standard feature, electronic on-demand all-wheel drive enables the SUV to modify its power delivery whenever necessary. Driving on both wet and dry roads can result in this. When there is a loss of traction due to slippery circumstances, it is crucial to provide power to the wheels that can benefit from it the most. All-wheel drive can still be used when driving in the clear because there are occasions when minor adjustments are necessary to maximize performance, such as when turning at a faster speed.
By providing a variety of drive modes, Toyota has offered users some control over how the Venza responds to input. The default setting would be Normal Mode, Sport Mode would increase responsiveness, and ECO would maximize efficiency. Additionally, there is an EV Mode that can be utilized to go short distances only on battery power.
The precise fuel efficiency will, of course, vary based on the driving habits and the state of the roads. The fuel efficiency of the Venza is predicted to be 40 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. Anybody who wants to cut back on gasoline use will be happy with these figures.
Compare the 2021 Toyota Venza LE vs XLE Trim Levels. What is the Difference?
Toyota has created an SUV with the Venza that, in many ways, resembles a high-end model. Elegant front grilles with chrome highlights are standard on both the LE and the XLE. Their dual exhausts have more chrome, and the XLE gets chrome bumper highlights in addition to silver roof rails.
Very beautiful side mirrors with cutting-edge components are incorporated into the two trims. They include integrated turn signals and are heated, which is really helpful in the cooler months. Their puddle lights are friendly, and their blind spot indicators light up whenever other vehicles are in those challenging to see places on either side of the Venza. The mirror can automatically fold in on the driver’s side to reduce the risk of damage or collision.
Having privacy glass on all of the rear windows is a wonderful touch. The power-operated liftgate can be opened without using one’s hands by kicking one’s foot underneath the sensor. The liftgate’s opening height may be changed, which is practical if one frequently parks in a garage with a low ceiling.
On the LE, multi-reflector LED headlights with automated on/off are standard. Headlights with LED projectors are available for the XLE. The LE’s plain black rear spoiler with a tiny LED center stop light is replaced by a premium rear spoiler on the XLE. The Venza’s exterior color matches the spoiler on the XLE, and it features gloss back details. It sports a full-width LED center stop light in the center that is more visible and has a slightly futuristic appearance. Additionally, the daytime running lights on the XLE are twin LEDs, whereas those on the LE are regular LEDs.
18-inch wheels give the LE an athletic appearance. They have a two-tone, multi-spoke design. They are updated to 19-inch models for the XLE.
When we look inside the cabin, we can see that the standard model is nicely furnished. It boasts four USB ports, wireless charging, LED inside lighting, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Venza joins a select group of high-end cars that frequently include all of these characteristics. Even higher grade components are what the XLE possesses that the LE does not. For instance, the XLE includes a larger multi-information display than the LE does, illuminated footwells, and a rearview mirror with a HomeLink transmitter integrated in. For added comfort in the winter, the XLE has the option of a heated steering wheel.
The Venza comes with cloth seats as standard in the LE trim, and the driver’s seat includes power adjustments and lumbar support. The seats on the XLE are upholstered in both fabric and SofTex. The driver’s seat in the XLE features a memory feature and is heated.
The XLE has a few extra features that give it a more upmarket appearance. For instance, the dashboard has color-keyed highlights, and the armrests and center console have trim that looks like wood grain. All four doors and the liftgate have touch-sensitive locking and unlocking systems as part of the XLE’s Smart Key System. The Smart Key System is included on the LE as well, however it just features sensors on the front doors and liftgate.
The infotainment systems in the two trims are identical, but the XLE offers buyers the option to move up to a higher level. An eight-inch touchscreen, smartphone compatibility, HD Radio, and SiriusXM are all standard on the Venza. The XLE’s available system features a number of noteworthy changes. It features a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL speakers, and navigation.
Toyota automobiles have won numerous awards in recent years for their extensive safety features. The Venza is yet another Toyota that includes driver-assist systems as standard equipment. Both the LE and XLE come equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, a collection of devices that enables the car to alert the driver to a variety of problems. The Venza has the ability to slam the brakes and correct steering in some circumstances, in addition to sending out an alarm if the driver is likely to crash into another car or veer out of their lane.
The LE incorporates rear cross-traffic warning and blind spot monitoring to help drivers be aware of other vehicles that they might not be able to see. The XLE offers a parking assist feature in addition to these monitoring systems. It alerts drivers when they are approaching objects in front of or behind them too closely, and if the driver doesn’t respond appropriately, the brakes may be deployed automatically.