On November 11, 2008, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK) started producing the first-generation Venza. More than 70% of the Venza’s parts came from US vendors. Venza annual sales were expected to range between 75,000 and 100,000 units, according to Toyota. Along with the Avalon, the first-generation Venza was one of only two Toyota vehicles made in North America that weren’t offered for sale in Mexico.
In June 2015, TMMK ceased producing the Venza for the American market. Up until 2017, the car was still being produced there for export.
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In 2021, will Toyota produce a Venza?
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.
Is Toyota reintroducing the Venza?
After being discontinued in 2015, the Toyota Venza is back for the 2021 model year and injects some elegance into the hybrid SUV market.
Will there be a Toyota Venza in 2022?
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.
How well is the 2021 Venza selling?
Despite all these excellent qualities, every vehicle has its drawbacks that need to be considered as well. Even if the 2021 Toyota Venza has few, we’ll discuss a few reasons you might not want to purchase this specific crossover.
1. Insufficient hauling power
You might feel a little let down by the 2021 Toyota Venza if weekend trips and adventures are your thing. The luxury amenities and networking capabilities of this crossover are given far more attention than the ability to tow heavy loads. While this is ideal for customers without these goals, some could find the lack of capability in the Toyota Venza frustrating.
2. Unacceptable levels of traffic noise.
The Toyota Venza generates a lot of road noise that can annoy passengers because of its mechanical design and structural layout. Some people might find it difficult to tolerate the Venza’s loudness when driving, which is primarily the result of its tires.
3. Displeasing controls that irritate drivers
When it comes to integrating contemporary technology or user-based controls, this Toyota crossover doesn’t hold back. The Venza’s controls, however, can be too complex for individuals who are not accustomed to such cutting-edge technology.
How It Stacks Up to the Competition:
Try to think of a few advantages the 2021 Toyota Venza has over two or three of its primary rivals. (See below for research sources.)
Both the 2021 Toyota Venza and the 2021 Lexus RX received nearly identical consumer evaluations despite having a very comparable exterior. While the Lexus RX does offer a few hybrid versions, the Toyota Venza goes above and beyond what consumers expect by concentrating only on hybrid options. The Toyota Venza model is the only one that combines hybrid technology with elegance. The Toyota Venza is just more cheap than the Lexus RX because it has a lower starting price and smaller upgrade increments.
With the release of its newest model, the 2021 Toyota Venza entered a highly competitive class of rivals in the mid-size crossover market. The Toyota Venza has never competed against the Honda Passport, which has been a competitor in this market for a long time. The Honda Passport falls short of the modern and environmentally friendly efforts made by the Toyota Venza’s hybrid powertrain, despite having a complete gasoline engine variant that produces more horsepower. While the Venza has switched to a more contemporary CVT, the Passport still makes use of a scuffed-up 9-speed automatic transmission. Although most interior dimensions of the Honda Passport are greater, the Toyota Venza trades off space for exceptional fuel efficiency that the Passport cannot come close to matching.
The mid-sized crossover industry is becoming more competitive, and new models with never-before-seen features are regularly released. In order to compete effectively in this market, the 2021 Toyota Venza is a redesigned model that has been pulled out of retirement. The 2021 Toyota Venza is performing well and is becoming more and more well-liked thanks to its enticing design components and contemporary amenities.
RAV4 or the Venza, which is larger?
The midsize crossover Toyota Venza was just added to the Toyota model roster. The Toyota Venza Hybrid was designed from the ground up to provide drivers a sense of luxury throughout their everyday commute. It has space for five passengers and is based on a midsize crossover platform. What distinguishes the famous 2020 Toyota RAV4 compact crossover from the upcoming 2021 Toyota Venza is what many Toyota car buyers want to know. Learn more with our Downeast Toyota comparison of the 2020 Toyota RAV4 and the 2021 Toyota Venza.
The 2021 Toyota Venza has a longer body that improves passenger comfort and has room for five passengers as well as 36.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seats. It shares the same 105.9-inch wheelbase as the 2020 Toyota RAV4. There are three categories of Toyota Venza models: LE, XLE, and Limited. With seating for five passengers, 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seats, and 69.8 cubic feet of storage space with the rear seats folded flat, the Toyota RAV4 is a recognizable compact crossover. The pricing of a Toyota RAV4 model starts at $25,950 and comes in six trim levels: LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure, TRD Off-Road, and Limited.
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.
Is the 2021 Venza a quality vehicle?
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.
Which vehicle may be compared to the Toyota Venza?
The Toyota RAV4 is one of a number of popular compact crossovers that the Toyota Venza must compete against.
The RAV4 has a similar construction to the Venza but is more manly, better handled, and designed with off-road driving in mind.
Despite being sportier, the Chevrolet Blazer shares some of the Venza’s design priorities.
Although they have hybrid powertrains as well, the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape don’t appear as upmarket as the Venza.
Will the Toyota Venza debut in 2023?
The Toyota Venza is anticipated to be a carryover model until 2023. For 2023, the forthcoming model will be offered with a new Nightshade Edition trim. The current generation of the Toyota Venza, which was completely redesigned and put on sale in 2021, is now in its third model year.