Toyota Venza or RAV4 Hybrid? Which Is Right For You?

In this episode the RAV4 Hybrid meets it's rizy cousin: the Venza, aka the Toyota Harrier. Unlike Toyota's self-claimed competition, the Venza is in fact not a mid-sizes 2-row crossover, but a more luxurious compact CUV with a little less space than the RAV on which it is based. I argue that this makes the Venza less of a Murano/Edge/Passport/Santa Fe competitor and more of a Lexus alternative...
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[@jimmartin5098]

I purchased the Venza XLE but added the JBL sound system with Dynamic navigation and the soft Tex interior...they discounted the Venza $4,000.00. Which brought the price back to $36,000.00. Which is the price for the standard XLE. I love this version for myself. But, I am 62 yrs old and done raising children. Empty nester. Not great storage for sure. But, the ride and the JBL sound system make it perfect for me. The new design of the NX 300 is identical to it for 2022. But, does have some luxury Lexus features...but for the same features as I have on the Venza...The NX Hybrid would run $48,000.00. I love my Venza so far...3000 miles and counting.

[@Ghost-jy9hk]

How much does it cost to fill up at the gas station and how many miles until empty?

[@swissmrkc]

Still love it?

[@mhassouneh]

Every car, truck & tractor should come with a volume knob for the infotainment system.

[@paulelgie2568]

I just purchased the Venza XLE after having a 2018 Rav4. In my mind it is more like a Lexus. I bought it because it is more luxurious,quieter, and the fuel mileage is incredible. It is a well designed SUV.

[@NEILANIL1]

Thanks for that feed back.

[@afcgeo882]

And once the new NX comes out? Who will buy it then?

[@Piketom1]

@@afcgeo882 people whose leases are up on the old model.

[@afcgeo882]

@@Piketom1 Who will buy the Venza then?

[@Piketom1]

@@afcgeo882 I'm sure there are people who will be looking at trading up from their last gen RAV4 and may like the styling of the Venza better or like the ride quality of the Venza better. As Alex noted, the Venza has a softer suspension tune.

[@khachikhmayakyan2349]

“I suspect that by the end of this video, everyone will be confused” Yeah that’s because Lexus sells a luxury crossover based on an older non-luxury car with a weaker hybrid system... yet charges significantly more for it

[@rjhick1]

To make it even more confusing is that alot of the Lexus vehicles are outdated as well.

[@arescoleman5895]

InstaBlaster

[@jacobcoots7095]

Just got my 2021 Toyota Venza Limited. Cross shopped with Ford Escape hybrid,Rav 4 Hybrid, CX-5, Lexus NX, and a few others. Ultimately, the Venza just felt more polished. Premium interor and exterior styling. Great gas mileage. As soon as I drove/saw it I knew it trumped the others for me.

[@2004cyrus]

I’m getting one in the morning. Cross shopped those models also. Are you a young guy? I am, and wondering if I’ll get teased lol

[@jacobcoots7095]

@@2004cyrus 41... not young not old. It's a great car.

[@2004cyrus]

@@jacobcoots7095 okay that’s awesome! Thanks for letting me know!

[@sammyjammy6647]

@@jacobcoots7095 how do you reconcile the fact that you’re getting a hybrid to save on a gas but spending potentially over 50k to do it? Might as well buy a corvette at that point. Also, even though you cross shopped the rav4 hybrid with the same engine hybrid set up, it starts at 28k which goes towards the idea you’re trying to save.

[@carlmanu]

@@sammyjammy6647 over 50k? I’m sure we’re not talking about the same vehicle. The venza fully loaded goes for about $43 and that’s MSRP. I bet you can get it for less.

[@mct8888]

Love that you can get a Limited Venza with no sunroof. Forget those stupid things!

[@hereigoagain5050]

My wife and I love our RAV4 Hybrid. I like the styling of the Venza better, but I would still chose the RAV4 to save $.

[@joec1774]

@alex on autos -- 2021 is actually the NX's SEVENTH model year, it's ancient. Also, love that you had "Harrier" playing on the Venza infotainment. Kudos on the Easter Egg :)

[@normt430]

Yeah, thr NX is basically a 2015 RAV4 still.

[@elliottmanning4116]

“The slight differences that we find in the Venza would put this over the Edge for me.” 😎😂😂

[@ELP1125]

🤨

[@afcgeo882]

Trying hard to grasp at straws there?

[@ccroy2001]

I missed that and I'm a Ford girl! I need to Focus

[@elliottmanning4116]

@@ccroy2001 maybe you should explorer why your not focusing. 😂😂😂🤣🤣🤣

[@djm12988]

The song was “Harrier”, which is what the Venza is called in Japan!

[@johnbrews9724]

Own a limited version without the skylight. Compared mainly with Outback, which I have driven for a decade. Found the Venza handles curves more confidently than the new Outback XT. Quieter, better sound system, more comfortable, 360 camera, hugely better mpg, rides better and throttle response far smoother. Do like bigger cargo space of the Outback and find Subaru eyesight system more confidence-inspiring than Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (which IMO requires work). As a caution to first-time buyers of a hybrid, I’d suggest looking at the Car Care Nut videos to appreciate just how great the differences are from a simple gas vehicle.

[@johnbrews9724]

I want to add that the navigation system is horrible - way out of date, doesn’t know where the US Post Offices are!! Suggests left turns that have been illegal for years!! Labeling of roads at major intersections often is lacking, even when you are actually at the intersection! Guidance ends in some cases before you actually arrive at destination!

[@aluisious]

@@johnbrews9724 Who even uses factory nav anymore?

[@thepcuser5469]

@@johnbrews9724 i highly recommend you just use apple carplay or android auto

[@christianlind7035]

The Venza has much more headroom than the Rav-4. I'm 6'4" tall and hit my head on the roof of the Rav-4 even when the seat was in the lowest position. In the Venza I had 2" inches of extra headroom. I bought the Venza XLE.

[@jollyp1605]

At 6’4” how comfortable are you in the drivers seat. Do you have good leg room?

[@michaelchinchen]

I love your grading system at the end. Thanks for all that you do!

[@jkia9998]

I like the Venza interior better but the front styling reminds me too much of the Sienna minivan (big negative). The price difference between the RAV4 and Venza is too high for content. IMO Toyota could have upgraded the RAV4 interior and put in more sound proofing to offer a more refined product instead of bringing the Venza to the US. The limited trims of both models are out of reach for most people. Instead of the lux RAV4 I see the Venza as what the RAV4 should be in terms of interior refinement and improved NVH.

[@richbrown6221]

Amazing review Alex thank you so much, I’m putting this one on my shopping list.

[@baldheadlogic]

I like the Venza. However, I think Toyota should offer a 3rd row delete option for the Highlander especially the hybrid for people who want more room and cargo space.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Agreed. If you delete the 3rd row the spare tire could be kept inside.

[@patphiltremaine7820]

As always, a good comparison, thank-you! We have been watching closely your Toyota reviews as we plan for our next Toyota upgrade in the new year. Good job! A lot of detail converted in a short period of time!

[@priddle3392]

I just want to say that you do an excellent job on your reviews. Appreciate the hard work. Thanks

[@erweber]

As usual, the best review on the web! Thank you, and good job Sir!!!

[@renaudgiguere7496]

Bigger on the outside? Smaller on the inside? Less practical? Not quite as fuel efficient? More expensive? Not as good looking? (for my taste) Less performance? I would pass and stick to the Rav4 Hybrid. A more luxurious touch can be appreciated, but only if it is added to the existing qualities, not instead of. Great review as always.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Well summarized.

[@pit9820]

every man to his own taste. I don't know how they measured that, but today I was in the Toyota showroom and just compared these two models. In Wenza, there is simply MUCH MORE back seat. Also in VENZA there are many interesting options that have never been and apparently are not yet foreseen in RAV4. The quality of the finishing materials is much better, the seats are much more comfortable. Personally, I definitely decided that I would take VENZA, because I did not find any reason to buy RAV4. Also, the most important plus for VENZA, it is assembled completely from zero to the end at factories in Japan, while all RAV4 are American assembly.

[@hss8973]

Venza by far the better choice.

[@jasonchagnon5186]

@pit9820 yes. It was much more comfortable!

[@Im2qwik]

I've followed you over the years...your production now is top notch and well polished...excellent

[@ns123]

One of the best reviewers! thanks for the excellent comparison!!!

[@Richard-ee4hv]

😢Alex you have no idea how happy I am when I hear that little jingle when you start thank you for many enjoyable podcasts!

[@MrGomjabber]

The Rav4 is incredibly uncomfortable for me when sitting behind the wheel. The Venza is not. I like everything about the Venza execpt for the cramped cargo area, but that cool exterior look comes at a price. Also, will definitely be getting the XLE so I can get more knobs instead of cap touch buttons.

[@locomotions1]

Excellent review, clear and concise! Thank you!

[@hyrenaj2888]

That roof was a feature in the Maybach 57/62, iirc... Amazing you can get it in a midrange Toyota now

[@runyr70]

Excellent review, thanks 😊

[@chetanjiva5997]

You cover all main the points that matter to a buyer. I like this format of the review more than any other car reviewers. Thank you

[@hansschweikert9153]

Wow. One of the best reviews I've ever seen. I tip my hat to you Alex. What tips me towards the RAV4 Prime would be towing capacity (for a smallish sailboat about 2300 lbs.) and the roof rack (for the vacation bound cargo box). I prefer the styling and the posh interior of the Venza but losing cargo space is another detraction for me. I notice that readily when comparing my wife's 2015 Lexus RX 350 to my 2008 Highlander Hybrid: way smaller in back for those college kid drop offs. Utility wins my heart. Thanks for the great discussion.

[@pauldeutsch2044]

I'm surprised that you didn't mention the digital rear view mirror or the heads up display.

[@geoffreyfinch9199]

Great review and comparison. Thanks

[@jonathanbormann5077]

The Venza has really grown on me. At first I thought it was hideous. Then I saw one in person and went "hmm, not too shabby." Really like the interior as well, just wish the climate control was actual buttons. Still have another year or so before I'll be in the market so we'll see what changes.

[@c_b5060]

Great info that I've not seen in any other review.

[@ccroy2001]

My neighbor just got a Venza. It's gorgeous! Her leased C300 is going back and she's buying the Toyota. As nice as the outside is surprisingly I think I prefer the Rav4 for the knobs and buttons and more practical storage in the dash.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Agreed.

[@rudydevos]

The Venza LE model is the one to buy. It is the only one that has physical buttons.

[@Wire-Free]

Well Alex, I really enjoyed the fantastic description in comparison in your videos! I've been tossing around the idea of a Venza so this was very helpful

[@bibiallie5391]

Since I sat in the driver seat of a venza at the dealership I’m torn! As we are looking to replace my very old Chevy Aveo. I love everything about this car however my hubby thinks we should get a Nissan or Honda as he’s the finance guy 🤦‍♀️ so torn!!

[@typesbad]

I greatly appreciate this review and am now even more interested in the Venza than before. To replace my wife's daily driver, comfort and quiet definitely trumps speed and sporty handling. The latter I get from my car. After the MDX, Im definitely looking for something smaller. The kids are grown, so as long as I can put two adults in the back seat for just a crosstown trip, I'm good. Thus the Passport, Murano, Blazer, Edge, etc are uselessly big. As far as cross shopping, I plan on looking this head on with the CR-V hybrid, and the Outback, which I really wish had a hybrid.

[@DaddyDan77]

Although these are both Toyotas this feels like a Chevy v Buick comparison.

[@MrWillaqui]

Very impressive review. Thank you.

[@thadrand2875]

Nice review!! I have a Venza Limited on order.

[@BillSklodowski]

I like it! I'm gonna want to check out the Venza "Prime"

[@josegeorge9512]

A very well done review - doesn’t antagonize the brand at the same time does call out key points for the end consumer. To answer your question I would get the RAV 4 over the Venza to save $. N would wait for the Lexus if I really wanted a premium vehicle from Toyota

[@cycloopnl]

I'm in love with my 2021 RAV4 XSE AWDi hybrid.

[@davidgoode7416]

Great review, thanks

[@MF-ch8ni]

Great content Alex! Well done!

[@epbski]

Love the Boeing 787 reference! I'm definitely an avgeek. Alex, are you also an aviation enthusiast?

[@Glideslopes]

He must be. Really don’t hear any auto reviewers dropping wide body references on HV’s. 😉

[@rightlanehog3151]

Alex, While the Venza is another welcome addition to the fleet of high mpg Toyota Motor Corporation Hybrid offerings, the first choice has to be the RAV4 Hybrid. With its lower price , extra interior space, better ground clearance and quite decent tow rating, the RAV4 simply provides more #utility for less money. As a bonus, Americans can buy a RAV4 Hybrid made in Kentucky while Canadians can get one from Ontario. On the subject of powertrain choices, the more powerful 245 hp system from the Highlander/Sienna Hybrids would certainly be an upgrade for Venza and RAV4. Lastly, people who have not yet seen Alex's Award Winning RAV4 Hybrid Tow Videos® should take this opportunity to see what Venza buyers will be missing.😁

[@normt430]

With the average age of RAV4 buyers at about 60-years old, most have more than a bike rack mounted hitch.

[@James-il3tq]

@@normt430 Average new SUV buyer age 25-54. I'm a. 2019 RAV4 hybrid XSE owner, 41 who tows a 1050lb camper and bike rack regularly.

[@normt430]

@@James-il3tq j.D. power surveys actual owners... "...Compared with the Compact SUV segment average, RAV4 buyers are more often women, skew a little older, and earn less in terms of annual household income. J.D. Power research data show that 54% of RAV4 buyers are women (compared with 51% for the segment), with a median age of 59 (vs. 56 segment average)...."

[@afcgeo882]

Actually, Americans and Canadians get a mix of Kentucky, Ontario and Japanese-built Ravs.

[@afcgeo882]

@@normt430 From the 2020 Rav4 review by JD Powers and Associates: “According to J.D. Power data, the RAV4 is more frequently purchased by women. The data shows that 56% are female (vs. 50% for the compact SUV segment). They’re slightly younger, too, with a median age of 57 (vs. 59), the result of 24% of RAV4 owners reporting to be members of Generation Y (vs. 19%). Toyota RAV4 owners are not as affluent, enjoying a median annual household income of $86,818 (vs. $92,841).” www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2020-toyota-rav4-review STOP TROLLING!!!

[@ethanmckibbin]

Had the 2021 Venza Limited for 1 month now averaging 43-44mpg, absolutely love the car and only just filled up for the second time. The Venza replaced my 2018 Highlander Platinum awd while keeping all the features and doubling gas milage. It sits next to my 2018 RAV4 Limited Hybrid in the driveway. The new rav4 doesn't work for me both appearance wise as well as the roofline is to short and flat so I hit my head and I found the seats much less comfortable. The 2021 Venza was a car of the year finalist and it's clear why that is.

[@normt430]

The neighbor had two RAV4 hybrids like yours. Then they traded one in for a brand new RAV4 Hybrid and the new does not look as nice. It has chopped up fender area and authentic not as prestigious looking as the old one.

[@ethanmckibbin]

@@normt430 if 2018s were so easy to get a hold of I probably would have had 2. 4th gen rav4s are desireable and holding value thought even almost 4 years later. I and others see the Venza as the 5th generation rav4 we should have got for 2019. I see my Venza as a newer version of my 2018 RAV4 just they way it should have been not that off-brand looking jeep & Tacoma mix going on.

[@James-il3tq]

New Venza looks ok but boring. I personally prefer new RAV4 mini-4runner look. Much more masculine. Both vehicles look faaaar better then last Gen RAV4 which badly needed redesign 🤮

[@rogersellars3290]

Very useful, thanks

[@ethanmckibbin]

@@rogersellars3290 I since bought a second Venza 3 months ago I liked the first one so much. I got a great deal on trading in my 2018 rav4 hybrid and I'm loving the gas mileage on the highway for my work commute.

[@OldThomMerton]

I am one of those folks who likes to have the extra room when I need it but I don't need the room of a Passport/Edge . . . I would like to sit three comfortably and have cargo space for trips. I am also looking for a smaller footprint vehicle, both environmentally and in size. At this point, the Venza is near the top of my list for hybrids as it comes off better across the spectrum of needs . . .

[@Corvette1658]

Thank you Alex my mom was thinking about getting a 2022 Toyota Venza. Now she thinking of getting a 2022 RAV4 Hybrid. Because the Venza is nice and she used to have a 2011 Toyota Venza. Before we sold it in 2019 before we moved from Chicago IL to SC. She drives a 2020 Subaru Outback XT Onyx Edition. She likes it but not as much as she did with Toyota. So when the lease on her Subaru is up in September. She would love to go back to Toyota. And with today gas prices she would love to get a Hybrid.

[@BigdogLarry]

It’s a sharp looking SUV and very Lexus like. However, I don’t understand why they put the turn signals on the bottom.

[@ramonahumada4]

The best car reviews by far!

[@James-il3tq]

Personal preference on looks (I prefer RAV4, more masculine and 4runner like). RAV4 is significantly cheaper, bigger cargo capacity, slightly faster (weighs less) and rated for 1750lbs towing (Venza no tow rating at all). Venza also has all touch screen buttons on mid+ models which is far less functional and distracting. RAV4 for the win IMO (certainly more practical).

[@normt430]

The neighbor traded one of two RAV4 Hybrid for a new RAV4 Hybrid. The new one looks cheap and not as classy as thr old one parked next to one another.

[@Spartan1912tam]

@@normt430 model year of both?

[@normt430]

@@Spartan1912tam old one is probably a 2017 and new one a 2019.

[@swissmrkc]

Love this review Alex....I was debating a loaded rav 4 vs loaded venza, 2023 ven,a 9nly got better, Ill soon be driving 20-30k a year so need a family car size with great fuel economy....and my 2020 top trim Santa Fe gets literally half the mpg of the venza. Planning 9n trading that in for this as long as I can get MSRP and no Toyo port add ons. Got the Santa Fe in late 2020 40k MSRP for just 34k before things got crazy.

[@ramonmaldonado2468]

Another great 👍 review.

[@RandomIndie]

I crossed shopped the NX300 vs the Venza Limited... no comparison, the Venza is by far the better car. Cockpit is better, infotainment is WAY better, and looks wise, the NX "beak" kind of turns me off. Luxury interior is tied. Venza wins IMO.

[@rajcherian578]

Great review. most of the car review of the "you tubers" I see are boring except " car help corner " a Canadian one and “Motormouth”. So, i will watch your reviews too in future. You did a great job. I subscribed too. I had a 2021 Rav 4 XLE premium that I traded for a crown XLE 5 months ago and i traded that for a Venza limited 2022 used SUV. I love the ride of a crown and the infotainment system but overall i bought this for the getting in and out easier and Hybrid and smaller to park than a crown as we are older couple. I am booking for a RAV4 plug in Hybrid and till then hopefully I will use this used 2022 Venza Limitd. A lot more I like in this than my XLE crown.

[@SilverScarletSpider]

Toyota and Honda: Jekyll and Hyde

[@doseofdoug8871]

Great comparison.. 😊

[@davidmulligan42]

Right now, the Venza is top of the list when it comes to replacing my wife's 2011 RDX. Option 2 would be an off-lease RX 350/450. We like to keep cars a long time, so reliability is a concern when car shopping. Toyota/Lexus just hits the sweet spot for us.

[@m4st3rm1nd9]

Venza is much smaller than RDX

[@davidmulligan42]

@@m4st3rm1nd9 Maybe you're thinking of the MDX. The Venza is longer than the RDX and has a bit more cargo capacity.

[@m4st3rm1nd9]

@@davidmulligan42 MDX is obviously bigger. You are right - Venza is longer on the outside, but does not translate to inside. RDX has more interior room and cargo space than the Venza. Check this: carbuzz.com/compare/acura-rdx-vs-lexus-rx-vs-toyota-venza

[@orlandovelastegui1391]

The Craziest thing is when you kick the back bumper and the rear hatch open!!! Toyota you amaze me again!!!! I love my Toyota Venza!!!!

[@La-yt1wr]

I've been more of a fan of the Venza since it first came out, if only they offered it in XSE trim with the red leather seats like the Camry.

[@naveenthemachine]

Yes!!

[@James-il3tq]

Personal preference on looks (I prefer RAV4, more masculine and 4runner like). RAV4 is significantly cheaper, bigger cargo capacity, slightly faster (weighs less) and rated for 1750lbs towing (Venza no tow rating at all). Venza also has all touch screen buttons on mid+ models which is far less functional and distracting. RAV4 for the win IMO (certainly more practical).

[@martinmartin5904]

@@James-il3tq the look of the previous gen rav4 was better , now with tacoma-style truckish look it's ugly and this ugliness sells at the expense of aerodynamics that gives free mpg .

[@James-il3tq]

@@martinmartin5904 Many people like the baby 4runner look of new RAV4. It gets 40mpg which is same as Venza and hybrid Ford Escape. No MPGs given up.

[@martinmartin5904]

@@James-il3tq Alex himself in episode '' 2021 Toyota Venza Part 2 '' from 2020-07-22. At 4:34 in this episode : '' It happens in hi speed area ,75-80 speed limit you should get better fuel economy . It appears to be a little more AERODYNAMIC '' but now it's seem to forget what he said 4 month ago .

[@tonynewman777]

Thank you for the chart I've had a hard time finding information 5 minutes and 11 seconds I have three young man teenagers still 6 foot 4 and taller... having a Ford undependable we're looking at a Toyota and trying to fit in 2 something that just doesn't fit mostly. We did like new Hybrid Toyota van. I still be a little pricey I have to drive 42 miles to work got to keep good gas mileage.

[@art562]

Great video comparison w RSV 4 …n against midsize… I am looking at Venza as my option ..the LE… don’t need the extra stuff…at $32,000 is very competitive ..the only concern is the leg room.. specially the 2nd row.. I am new driver for hybrid…. So if u have “ a full status “ on the hybrid function “ yiu could drive it as EV only version,,,n how many miles before it switches to Gas?

[@biggun7]

Decided on XSE hybrid, wanted a moon roof and can’t get on venza 😢. Mine has the panoramic roof so got best of both options imho. Mileage is similar, avg 41 in summer and 38 in winter

[@rogersellars3290]

I’m looking to replace my 2016 High,Andre XLE. I like the Highlander storage, carry space and am OK with its price range but don’t need 3rd row seats; I would love an electric or hybrid. What should I get.

[@spakls103]

Test drove them both and I also own a 2019 RAV4 I think I’m gonna go purchase of Venza

[@kimberlykoester8703]

Definitely like the Rav4 styling better! I have a 2020 Limited Hybrid Rav4 and love it!!

[@ocmdog]

Thank you for doing this review. Very comprehensive and a necessary look at just how similar they are. I wanted to lean towards the Venza based on the styling but I actually prefer the practicality and the interior of the Rav4 more. I think it was a missed opportunity to not bring up the Rav4 Prime as well and see how that compares. The power and efficiency of the Rav4 prime is very attractive and might overcome the luxury features of the Venza (I haven't driven either though so I wouldn't know, hence my wish it was mentioned). I did appreciate your comments on the Lexus NX, however.

[@bwest-yq3uc]

Yes the 2023 Rav4 prime and the 2023 venza would be a good comparison.

[@gregthomson7889]

One big thing that no reviewers mention is the Venza is made in Japan.Therefore it has better quality and will last just a little longer.But because its made in Japan you will pay more for it.

[@Davidipac]

I like your new intro

[@DJPleasureSeekingMissle]

Markus Schulz Global DJ podcast. Good taste in music Alex😎.

[@markvicferrer]

Reminds me of the Camry, Lexus ES & Avalon companion.

[@MusicConnoisseurian]

I drive all three of these regularly. None of which are remotely closely in experience except the Avalon is a somewhat close second or completely different in the years from 2005/2007-2012 to the ES.

[@MistSoalar]

maybe just for me, but Harrier sounds better than Venza

[@whoeverwhoever400]

The US wants to a feminine name to attract for female buyers.

[@talast2000]

it's definitely no Venza of the original model.... about the only relationship they had together is the toyota logo....

[@toyorobo]

10:08 "If you get the base Harrier, then we do get an 8 inch screen..." Haha

[@honeste6652]

This trend of putting turn signals lower is stupid. It goes right up there with gloss black interior trim and non-physical controls.

[@jgbains]

Alex is there a location where i can sort out the scores based on various factors .. may be ian an excel sheet on your website. Next year I am thinking of buying hybrid /elec SUV/CUV under $40K and would to use your amazing database for my research

[@xavierp0nce]

That weird TINY rear turn signal at the bottom of the car looks so .... out of place and like an afterthought.

[@kingloo6407]

Not safe

[@trevorryan403]

The new Venza looks SO much better than the old one! It's definitely small for the midsize class though. The moon roof is neat, but I'd rather have one that opens. No roof rack or towing really limits this to a strict city cruiser. Overall, I'd rather get the RAV4 Prime or Hybrid for space and usability.

[@evdanielsson7]

You get roof rails if you don’t opt for StarGaze.

[@devilsrighthandman769]

It's a great looking crossover, specially for a Toyota. But honestly, I'd rather get the Rav4. This Venza isn't worth the premium over it.

[@nicholaspappas9712]

Like the RAV4 because I have had a few of them, I like the Venza because it’s Quite, might get the Highlander Hybrid next time because, I have a 2018 Highlander now.

[@toothpickdic]

Nice easter egg having "Harrier" when showcasing the infotainment!

[@marktepper3440]

Does the LE model have the same sound insulation at the other top trims. IE acoustic front windshield snd other?

[@Ben-bs4od]

This is like you say, not a mid sized crossover but a longer compact crossover. I wouldn't take either of these over the new Hyundai Tuscon. And if I wanted a hybrid, I'd take the more comfortable seats which seems to be the Venza or the Tuscon if it's power is comparable.

[@JBM425]

If it can't tow, this crossover is a no-go.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Exactly. Alex has proven beyond a shadow of a doubt how well the RAV4 Hybrid tows.

[@rnjvisionfx]

Some people have money to buy a truck if they want to tow. Then use a car like this on a different day... sometimes people have cars for different uses, not an all in one car.

[@24Ellie]

Did you ever get any clarification on the reason for no tow rating on the Venza?

[@jamesboardman8859]

Alex, I love your very comprehensive reviews of each of your test vehicles, but I must admit that I sometimes get "lost in the weeds" when you get to technical, as I did with your recent review of the Jaguar i-Pace, and it's comparison to the Tesla Model 3. I was able to comprehend most of what you said about the capacity of their two ion battery systems, and the expected amount of range of the two cars in both urban, and rural settings, but when you starting discussing their two different charging systems, rapid charging, vs standard charging, and the difference between their two charging ports, and the proprietary nature of their charging stations, I was lost. Who knew driving a car from point A to point B was so complicated these days! Anyway, I wanted to compliment you for something you do, that I don't see other reviewers do, and that is demonstrating the interior volume of a vehicle by moving around from the driver's seat, to the rear seat, and even to the trunk or hatch to demonstrate cargo capacity. Brilliant, even dullards like me can grasp the amount room available to me in a particular vehicle. For all 6'3" inches of me, that's important. Keep up the good work, and if ever you offer remedial training in the charging of electrical vehicles at the two different type of charging stations out there, I'm in!

[@ukassh23]

Markus Schulz for life:)) Nice review too:)

[@stevenjames1138]

I think I prefer the OG Venza to this new one, although having a hybrid is nice for fuel economy. Personally, if I were in the market for a new vehicle, I'd cross shop the RAV4 Hybrid with the Ford Escape Hybrid.

[@afcgeo882]

CRV, not the Escape.

[@blueplanet1048]

Thank you for the great informative review! Can you please compare the venza to RAV4 Prime? Thank you!

[@stevearita3267]

Nice review as always! I'm curious whether the Venza has the same "inability to fill the gas tank to full issue" as the RAV4 hybrid was reportedly having? I was hoping to hear mention of that in your review, maybe you did and I just missed it. Thanks.

[@johnbrews9724]

My limited Venza shows full on the gauge when refueling. However, it never takes 14.5 gallons and range to empty is never as advertised.

[@2004cyrus]

@@johnbrews9724 a Toyota mechanic told me the Venza has a large reserve. He said turn off engine while filling then the gauge will update when you turn the engine on after the fuel cap is secured and fuel door closed.

[@johnbrews9724]

@Joshua R: Not my experience. Of course, the engine is off while refueling, and of course, the gas cap is screwed on after refueling. The gauge always shows “full”, but the distance to empty is never as advertised, and never come close to putting in more than 11 gallons.

[@2004cyrus]

@@johnbrews9724 oh yes I’ve heard of that. I believe it’s because gas mileage and distance to empty are computed differently. Your mpgs change as you drive and that can’t be predicted ahead of time. Yet the distance to empty just goes by what it sees in the tank. I probably didn’t explain that worth a crap but it’s been explained to me and it makes sense.

[@carolbrown8875]

My 2019 toyota xle hibrid had a problem with the gas tank never filling. It was fixed for free, then had no problems filling all the way

[@MrPetrello]

How did the brakes feel as compared to non hybrid Alex ?

[@WDavid-bm9jd]

I think for this sort of small size SUV, the capacity, visibility is more important than leather seat, luxurious feelings especially when their power trim are almost same, so RAV4 is more practical car

[@meshail59]

NX 2022 is out now, do you still recommend Venza or go for Lexus NX 300h 2022?

[@paulstein9258]

I bought the Limited 10 days ago. Observations. The panoramic sunroof is wasted on empty nesters. Only people in the back seat can benefit. Really sharp though. No sunglass holder. Tiny cubicles. Positives. After spending time with the manuals, I really like the infotainment center. You don’t need knobs. Steering wheel has all the necessary controls. Set climate control to auto and forget about it. Set headlight to auto, and forget about it. Automatically switches between high and low beam. Excellent tint for rear seat passengers. Averaging 37 mpg, but got 47.5 in light traffic where I could really accelerate from the light in the best echo. Why is this car so heavy. 3900 pounds.

[@jjpac2011]

Excellent and informative video. I have a 2014 Rav XLE in excellent condition and test drove a 2021 Venza XLE Hybrid. I love the look of the vehicle. Looks like a sportier Rav. However, the interior cargo and rear passenger spaces are significantly smaller and that was a deal breaker. Gonna look at the Highlander Hybrid as well as the Rav XLE Hybrid next, if and when my dealership gets them in again. Most of these are sold before they get off the boat here in hawaii.

[@sergecharest7426]

Last monday I ordered a Limited Venza but here in Canada it’s 4 months delivery! Is it the same in US.

[@lambodp]

Sounds like Toyota decided that buyers of the Venza won't tow where buyers of a Rav4 might, hence the lack of towing rating. I assume it is more than capable of it, just that it was never verified.

[@dwaynecoy1871]

Venza uses the exact same engine, transmission, and drive train. It has the exact same wheelbase and turning radius. And the back up camera in the Venza includes a trailer hitch hookup icon to help guide you when backing up to hook up a trailer. I'd bet the farm that a Venza has the same towing capacity as a Rav4.

[@2004cyrus]

3500lbs per website

[@elsaandnoah]

Boy, now I’m wondering about a sbs comparison between new Venza hybrid vs BZ4X or Subaru Solterra!? I wonder if the Venza is more readily available?

[@josesime24]

how many miles at year i need to drive in a venza hybrid to maitain my battery life in good standars??

[@luccouture8984]

I’m almost 6’5’´ and the RAV4 didn’t have enough head room for me when I tried it. (My head would quickly hit the ceiling in case of a frontal impact). Is the Venza better in that regard?

[@afcgeo882]

Worse due to the sloping roof.