2013 Toyota Venza Limited Drive Review and Road Test

[@maxcactus7]

Watching this in 2020. Not one of those GMC Terrain or Chevy Equinox are still on the road. Meanwhile, thousands of Venzas are barely broken in and still running strong.

[@jtomtl]

I am driving one with V6 AWD, zero mechanical problems, bad interior quality though, otherwise a very comfortable and useful family car, it’s 11 years old and I basically grow up with it

[@JWJTRAINOR]

I don’t know what you’re talking about I see the second and current generation equinoxes everywhere same with terrains

[@ztiantian6266]

@@JWJTRAINOR any equinox or terrains on the road from 2013?

[@JWJTRAINOR]

@@ztiantian6266 probably

[@samuelricketts9891]

Hello

[@samsiphandone7412]

I still have 2013 LE V6 and just over 100,000 miles now... Love it with just regular maintenance (oil changes, 1set of brake changes, 1 battery change, 1 set of tire changes)... Just keep running especially when we take it on long vacation drives (8 times now from FL to NY and back) and I will keep it until it dies...

[@unhappyjavi]

Dude my 2013 venza limited is the best car ever!!!!!! That fact that they don’t make them anymore is even cooler cuz this car always gets heads turning because there’s not that many out there anymore.. I love my venza!!!

[@jbmoore4436]

I feel the same way. I wish the new car they call the venza actually was an updated version of this car. The new car is basically a RAV-4 with a hybrid engine.....If I wanted a RAV-4, I would not have looked at a Venza in the first place. I'd love to buy a 2015 with low mileage.... I love the first generation Venza's utility, looks, and even it's speed/power. Knowing this is basically created from the super reliable Camry, and that it has a 5 star crash rating, completes a really strong package. I've sold GM products and driven ford's cross over. They're decent cars, but I would easily take the Venza over the Escape and especially the Equinox/Torrent....And I did. Love the Venza. Especially considering the winters here in Philadelphia...

[@pitbullpappa]

Notice he forgot to mention the 5 star safety rating which is one of the reasons I purchased my 09 V6 AWD Venza three months ago. I purchased it with just under 80,000 miles on it and have since put just over 2,000 miles on it and I LOVE driving it!! I traded in my 06 bmw 325i for the Venza and I am soooo happy to be done with BMW's. I had a 530i and a 325i and both had nothing but problems and were very expensive to repair and maintain. Regardless of the reviewers opinion, I have absolutely no regrets going with the venza. I can't wait to see how it handles in the snow this winter.

[@HCNBLAZZIN]

How was it in the snow thinking of getting the venza.

[@Ready72000]

Three BMW owner here in 2021. I am getting tired of the endless repairs on the BMWs and am considering other cars. I just noticed the Venza for the first time today. It seems like a direct competitor to the Subaru Outback. My wife has had a 2014 Outback for four years. I have always kind of ignored it but recently “discovered” it in our garage. I have owned Toyotas in the past and miss Toyota reliability. It may be time for me to buy a CUV.

[@gabeeskridge8291]

@@Ready72000 My brother recently sold his 328. Best move he ever made. He finally realized they are not worth the headache. Congrats.

[@velocity313]

Wife just bought one of these used. She looked at Cadillac XT5, Durango, Etc. She got in this and loved it. More room than you think , drives nice with AWD, and with the money she saved she didn't have to trade in her convertible she loves.

[@swhalstead]

watching this video as Im contemplating what to do, as my 36 month lease on my 2013 venza is up. It hasn't been my favorite car, but it really is a jack of all trades and the reliability has been top notch. I think I'll just buy it.

[@stuckinkuwait28]

This is an American car Alex. It was designed here built here and is only sold here in America. It doesnt get any more American than that.

[@lkikib9458]

Actually, the Venza has been sold in Canada all through the years it's been sold in America. There are a lot of first-gen Venzas still going strong here in Canada.

[@NetteSproule85]

i just bought a Venza and I absolutely love it! Everyone has an opinion and nothing will ever be perfect

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Thanks for requesting it! That's what we're here for.

[@NataGeo83]

I own a venza 2014 limited and i wouldn't trade it for any other car. Drives very smooth over snow my 4x4 is very good kicks in when i need it. So whatever this guy talks about the 4x4 by just driving it for a week I Drive it for a month now over bad roads and i am happy.

[@reallauradee]

Still have your Venza?

[@cristinadiaz1301]

Hi naty g How are you I am looking for one right now Hope to find it soon

[@itsnomyth144thsnd3]

It's 2022 and I purchased my 2014 Venza Limited AWD in 2013... Has 59000 miles and it's hands down the best vehicle I ever owned. I wouldn't trade it for two of the vehicles he mentioned, Chevy/ford...

[@timcarpenter818]

These are the best venza years forever

[@donnad3133]

2010s was the best of Toyota but starting with the new rav4 they went stupid ditching v6 then they ruin the new sienna ditch v6 hybrid highlander and ditch gas v6 ruin the new tundra sequoia with mediocre hybrid and twin turbos brought a button down venza

[@РоманМельник-н3м]

try to update navigator ;)

[@Zinizzle]

I love the Venza! I love the styling of it, it looks aggressive yet classy! Very unique! I hope Toyota refreshes this to address some of it's shortcomings.

[@MegaSlowe]

I would take a 10 year old Venza over a brand new Equinox, and I bet it would still last longer.

[@carlovanrijk4039]

MegaSlowe that’s what happened with me: I bought a Venza, my nephew bought an Equinox. Now we see which will last longer.

[@FloresWilliam]

Watching this review in 2020 after the 2021 model year was just announced.

[@kenroc546]

Same

[@dillonh321]

Lol same. Won't be watching the 2021 reviews until at least 2026.

[@cakrawalajingga]

Consider to buy used one, that's why....ha8

[@JSTRonline2]

Reliability, it's #1 out of all of the GM products and probably the Ford too.

[@bellequine]

Just bought a venza...after driving in a Nissan Rogue, Murano (the latter too big, drives like an SUV), a Honda Crosstour (can't see out the back at all), Suburu Forrester, Outback (super loud and has the dashboard of a 1992 corolla). The best thing about the venza is that going from a small compact like my three previous Honda civics, it feels like home. No getting used to it. I love the shift option and the cushioning is great for someone like me with hip and spine problems.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

We hope to have one in 6 weeks, we will post the review ASAP.

[@shwndh]

We have 2013 XLE V6 and we love it. Best car ever! However, We did purchased used at a great price. We would never have spent anything close to $40k for this vehicle for the level of tech and interior quality of materials. But in the $20k range, it's a great deal. I think what killed this car was the pricing and poor marketing. It just cost too much for what it is.

[@fraisdegout]

Hello, I am considering getting the exact model and trim you are describing in your comment, 2013 XLE v6 AWD, used of course, with 53K miles or so. This is going to be a family vehicle (with baby #1 arriving soon), so I'm looking for something comfortable, safe, and reliable (I plan on keeping it for a long time). How have you been enjoying this vehicle so far and have you had any particular issues? Thank you kindly.

[@joeandsteff0401]

I honestly found your honest review fairly entertaining Alex. Honestly 2 thumbs fairly up. Lol

[@sambehnosh8593]

i like the smoth driving of the venza ,the screens inside and very comfortable

[@IanMacdonald-d3e]

I own a 2013 Venza 3.5 liter... best vehicle I have ever owned .I would take it anywhere and it's reliable and fairly economical with regard to fuel consumption and maintenance. I hope it lasts for at least 250,000 to 400,000 miles or even more.

[@RealtimeReviews613]

FINALLY!!!!! Thank you for listening to my REQUEST!!!!!

[@dougie281]

i have a venza and a BMW M5....I honestly love my Venza 0 issues....uses regular gas....and has a billion cup holders! Love my BMW but it is in the shop every 3months...car doesn't even have a dip stick to allow you to check the oil level yourself. ........

[@Toyota4Life]

The Venza is a great car when you review a car you dont review a car based on whats out their you review a car under its own merit. This car is the best looking car in its class and has a potent engine clean interior design and has Toyota name to back it. Great car

[@landrewmackinnon4888]

I 100% agree! Imagine buying a ford based on material touch and then spending the next 10 years repairing it. I just bought a 2009 venza last week. Yup that's right. And they wanted good money for it. Bulletproof engine with a chain. As a long trip car, this car will likely last me 10 years.

[@jamesconway6677]

@@landrewmackinnon4888 I’m about to become a 2015 Venza owner as well., good bye to my V8 lol

[@JWJTRAINOR]

Where is the engine cover? 1:15

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

That's a tough question. The best car for an 18 year old is likely the one that you can afford to repair or replace when they damage it. Knowing most teens, an accident is the more likely source of expenses. The Venza is a large and safe vehicle but the larger the car the harder they are to park and the more likely you are to have some fun parking lot scrapes.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

We will see what we can do and what we can get our hands on. Anything in particular?

[@Bean1595]

get the venza, and never look back. trust me.

[@dagr382]

Refreshingly honest appraisal of a Toyota vehicle.

[@LoudProudNPunk1]

I really want a 2013 Venza. Not the fancy one reviewed here, but one with at least the V6. Gonna wait a few years and get a used one, so I can save a few grand. Whenever my '98 Honda Civic finally dies (which it probably won't) or when I have a better paying job in a few years, the Venza will be mine!

[@stupidcar-noreally-8771]

Did you ever end up getting one?

[@jxmar_]

?🥲

[@MintyFreshTurds]

Very strange that ventilated seats weren't available on the limited.

[@Emens_Travels]

I absolutely love my 2013 Venza V6 AWD!!

[@pdejesu2737]

I got a 2012 Venza. Best vehicle I have ever had. With 70,000 miles, I hope it will last another 10 years!!!

[@zalllon]

With regular service, my 2016 still drives like new (and I bought it as used car), unlike my relatives domestics.

[@AlekcejVelikajROSSIJ]

Купил вензу и остался очень доволен!!! Много знаю что в США делают не качественные вещи. Но здесь всё на высшем уровне, что сказать, американцы хорошо собрали данный автомобиль!

[@antoinettegiacci6731]

I love my 2013 Venza would not trade it for anything.

[@trueblueowner]

I own a venza, come to me in five years, this venza value wise will be much higher

[@sreejithjanak2021]

Exactly, thats the difference between American and Asian vehicles. Asian vehicles have more resale value due to its remarkable reliability and less engine damage.

[@reallauradee]

It says it's been 4 years since you wrote this. Close enough. How's it doing?

[@colormesarge]

It now says 5 years ago on your comment. How is the Venza holding up? The PTO issue has turned me off of buying a used Edge.

[@ThatCarGuy2]

Awesome review! I enjoyed it! Liked and subbed

[@syewh7080]

I’m going to see a 2011 Venza V6 day after tomorrow, please share your experience if you have one. Thanks

[@MegaSlowe]

I have the 2011 XLE V6. 90,000 miles. I also have a 2013 RX 350 with 103,000 miles. I like driving the Venza more. I think it looks better as well. As always, just check the main things (frame rot and parts corrosion if up North), but other than that, these things are as solid as they come.

[@freeasthewind8463]

What do you think of the 2009 AWD V6? I'm looking at buying it, it's has 100k asking 13g. Is it too much?

[@crazykenbei]

Depends how you feel about gas mileage and what your vehicles options especially pricing wise are today.

[@crazykenbei]

@@MegaSlowe the 2011 had trim options? I thought that started with the 2012 when it got slightly refreshed. Now I do know the 2011 had package options but I believe was only one base trim but this is interesting to hear

[@HALWG51]

Wow, Alex looked really young back then!

[@AwesomelySweetYve]

And one more thing. Is the v6 more economical than the 4cyl? I'm new with cars and know absolutely nothing so I'm sorry for asking so much questions. Which one is more fuel efficient. Meaning that I wont spend too much money on gas.

[@sambehnosh8593]

love my venza 2014

[@KYIV0482]

Looks better thn ford and chevy, much more reliable and resale value better by far.

[@coffeekhan]

The CR-V and the Venza are two completely different vehicles. The Venza drives "bigger" because of the width of the vehicle. I think you'll find the ride to be more comfortable in the Venza, but I don't think it drives as nice as the CR-V. Depends what you are looking for. More room in the Venza, for sure. Ask for an extended test drive to make sure you like it. The Venza costs more too.

[@jbmoore4436]

Exactly. The CR-V is in a category with the Rogue and the RAV-4. Those baby "utes" have a completely different purpose than the Venza. The they Esape, Murrano, and the Crosstour were the major competitors in a very quirky cross over market at the time of this car. Sadly, the new Venza is more of a "RAV-4.5" than an updated first generation Venza. The 40mpg is impressive and I understand the need for that in today's economy. It's market to RAV-4 owners, prius owners, and people looking for a unexciting SUVs with a standard hybrid engine. What made the first Venza great has been lost on this new venza, which actually has less cargo space than the present RAV-4. To each his own. But I'd rather have a low mileage 2015 Venza V6 AWD....and it's not even close.

[@coffeekhan]

Interesting. While technically, the GMC and Chevy are in the same segment, I wouldn't shop them against the Venza or the Edge. The Venza & Edge are wider, and will fit 3 adults in the back. I wouldn't think of driving across the country that way, but in a pinch, you can drive a family of 5 (3 teenage boys) to the airport. I would do that with the Edge. Not with the other two. Venza and Edge are distinctive in their styling. Venza IS due for a serious remodel though.

[@ikeproc]

My V6 Venza is a 2010 and have never been in the shop can you say that about the others. Book value is over $22,000. Plus I have a lifetime warranty.

[@RD2554]

which one do u recommend? if not venza? i m looking to buy something like venza

[@809nel]

I like how all these reviewers basically copy each other about the hard plastics and fit and finish compared to GM and Ford but they fail to mention the reliability and longevity of parts on American cars. I'm currently looking for a Crossover and have read so many bad reviews and stories of GM and Ford costing thousands in repairs early in the life of ownership.

[@randalldias7327]

809nel I agree. We just bought a Venza. I watched a ton of reviews and they all seemed to complain about misfit dash panels, etc... Our 2009 V6, AWD seems very well put together. So far we love it. Very comfortable.

[@Lucky8s]

809nel The Toyota Venza competes with cars like the Ford Edge and Nissan Murano, and to be honest, it isn't doing so well. It's actually doing so bad that Toyota is scraping the car from their model line soon (Maybe 2016). The Ford Edge is the top seller, nearly tripling the amount of Venzas sold in North America, so I definitely think it's something to consider.

[@nickvernace6646]

thank you so much lol so true

[@iridius001]

great review thx!

[@nrth5676]

Alex, Will it foolish to buy discontinue car. Love the fact of there frame is wider to make decent room for 3 people to seat in back row. Long lasting, dependability factor & less maintenance issues with toyota made me go for this car. Thinking for 4 cyl.

[@Neno8403]

If the masses want us to believe that Buick is some sort of "luxury marquee"... then that's not saying much. With that in mind, Buicks are ugly, and based on how much I loved my parents 2010 Venza... I'd pick this any day over the competition.

[@coffeekhan]

How about in comparison to the Ford Edge?

[@jaynebailey]

I want to know how dependable is the engine and transmission I didn't care about esthetics

[@cjsteele9594]

Duh, Its a Toyota.

[@contimexoil9338]

Missing your infographics.. You always had a consistent flow of information.

[@anassmail3397]

I have this car

[@anassmail3397]

Arthur

[@jaynebailey]

How is the engine and transmission

[@Ken-vl4wk]

How would you compare the noise insulation compared to the competition?

[@Dermatrans]

Question: is also for the Ladies easy to drive?

[@jamesatthewatercooler5463]

It’s very simple he likes the equinox and terrain better? Guess what been there done that on both of them. Both leases and had nothing but problems with them from Day 1! Trust me the quality on Toyota is unmatched and I purchased a used 2009 Venza loaded. Have had absolutely no problems with it. The terrain the camera freak out of the hatch and the equinox stranded my wife with 131 miles on it. The alternator went bad??

[@thisismagacountry1318]

The modern version of Gus Fring's car

[@JeremyandtheRobots]

It competes with the Mazda CX-7? I vehicle that Mazda quit making a while ago?

[@rooftop9967]

What would be the difference between the venza and rav4?

[@jennyjagoe7526]

Size venza is bigger

[@RealtimeReviews613]

You need more driving shots. Thats be sweet

[@AwesomelySweetYve]

Would you recommend this car for a 18 year old? I don't like small cars and this is so far the mid size SUV that I like. It's not too big or too small. I was thinking about getting a rav4 but someone told me that its most known to cause a lot of accidents. And one more thing, which is better AWD or FWD? Is the insurance more expensive for FWD? I'm not sure if I drove AWD or FWD before. But which is best for a 18 year old? Please reply ASAP.

[@taramilne4008]

Did you get it for your 18yr old.... Im thinking of getting one for mine now

[@LVang152]

I really want Toyota to redesign this car sooner

[@49ydna]

did you open the engine cover?

[@ThePharm4Life]

could you please do 2013 rav4? i am planning to buy it in the summer. thank you!

[@RealtimeReviews613]

So you weren't s fan if it eh? I love the venza! Yes it could better. The steering needs more feedback,proper fit and finish and it needs to loose weight but i rather have this than ANY american crossover. American cars are not as refined. The venza is smooth, quiet, tiny bit of sport, luxurious.

[@abmiles3]

The word of the day is "Honestly"

[@GracielaLyanne]

should i get this model used??

[@MegaSlowe]

Yes, if you can find one. Just check the frame for corrosion like any other vehicle, if it's a northern vehicle.

[@delvidalvi1121]

Excellent

[@christianjomar1]

you're talking about the Toyota Venza or criticizing

[@paulseiferling1460]

Check out the Edmund's consumer reviews.Road noise,steering columns and weatherstrips are real problems.

[@TheGrayWolf81]

Coming from someone who owns this car (2013 XLE), none of these are problems.

[@tonywilliams2835]

My wife had a 2011 Venza Base (car accident) then purchased a used 2014 Venza XLE V-6. Road noise improved when tires were replaced. NEVER experienced any of the other problems. Her 2011 was totaled with 99,820 miles on the odometer. Only routine maintenance performed. Slightly behind in technology compared to others in the class. Ahead of pack in reliability.

[@KhrissyDaDon]

Did he just rate this below a Chevy Equinox? PLEASE -___- other journalists said and I qoute: "The Chevy Equinox was hot when it first debuted, and is now DATED and falling behind its competition!".

[@Neno8403]

And what are these "better options" when there's really no other car that truly competes with the Venza, other than the turd that is the Honda Crosstour??? The Venza has be praised up and down since its debut, for it's Lexus-like interior, comfort, and amenities. My parents own a 2010 Venza, I have driven it several times, and I enjoy it a lot. The interior is large and comfy, and the cargo space is enormous. You all are just biased.

[@tomballesteros4673]

This is a Amazing SUV ,I Recently went turkey hunting and area 3B in Northern Arizona. I accidentally got on the Porter Mountain crossroads to the Springville Highway. The traction control work incredible I’m impressed. Really good Ground clearance and great gas mileage! I even pull my aluminum boat trailer. And also my ATV trainer. Through salt River Canyon Arizona. It is perfect

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It's funny how you don't notice it at the time, but after editing you say to yourself "OMG, how many times did I say that?" Maybe we can put a rolling counter in the videos.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Funny, 99% of our commenters here and on TTAC claim all of our writers are import-biased American hating journo-elitists. Honestly the Veza isn't a bad car and it has proven extremely reliable, however this is a crowded segment with excellent competition and there are better options out there.

[@OldThomMerton]

A couple of fit and finish issues have not dimmed my love for my Venza; reliable as Hel, a great driver, lots of room for folks and or cargo and more fun to drive than you'd think. I still love mine . . . although I have been doing research for it's eventual replacement.

[@95thRiflesOCI]

You can always praise the Venza in your comments then, some people want to know why you think the venza is better then "American made models"

[@davidpaisley9024]

My main complaint about the Edge is that the back seat is terrible, hard to get into and lousy leg room.

[@95thRiflesOCI]

Less cargo capacity then a Rav4, yet the size of a highlander. Not sure who would buy this car except for the 20 inch wheels.

[@satnitcboy]

The passenger space is generous though. If you're in the habit of traveling with grownups, that's a plus.

[@AwesomelySweetYve]

Which is better AWD or FWD? In general and what would be recommended for a 18 year old.

[@East17A]

Ford Edge ?!! I have two of my coworkers / Friends who owns Ford Edge !!! they hate that thing. at least $3000 worth of repairs and didn't end there yet .. while that Toyota Venza owner happy enjoy the Reliability . who knows how long it will last the fast Rusting ford. its fallen a part that for sure !!!

[@macdabrows]

It was "fairly" good review.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

No, the 4 cylinder would be the most economical engine for the Venza.

[@ripvanwinkle8109]

I guess you can find things wrong perfection if you nitpick. You state a handful of NA cars you think are better, see you in 3years when their resale is garbage and reliability is even lower. You want a bunch of overvalued crap you don't need in a car buy NA, you want reliability, comfort, style and something that holds its value then buy Asian.

[@xxlolilylolxx]

The Venza just looks weird to me, I think id rather buy the Ford Edge over this even though I generally prefer Japanese cars.

[@White03T4RV82WD]

Imo it does look weird, but it's a good weird. I'm buying one tomorrow. It's a 2010 Fully loaded V6 AWD with 78k. It's replacing old faithful (2003 4Runner V8 with 134k) since I wrecked it and just want something new with more technology and better MPG.

[@cjsteele9594]

Ford Edge=CRAP

[@algorel4763]

He talked more about Ford products than the Venza, bet he owns an Edge. Somewhat of a slanted review!

[@Jag-leaper]

you clearly havent driven a ford lately ;)

[@bellequine]

Quieter than suburus but not as quiet as Nissan Murano

[@imranabbasi7871]

👍💖💚

[@izzyso3820]

This dude prefers looks over reliability. hahaha

[@vickvega571]

Please never compare Ford or GM unless you are also going to follow with but the Toyota will last 20 years Vs those American brands 😂

[@molaroismorais1758]

This guy didn't know a jack about this car...

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Not as good as Buick's latest offerings, better than the Kis Sorento, on par with the GM twins.

[@colormesarge]

5 years on, your opinion doesn't hold up to actuality.

[@delraksmishalska8161]

I don't understand what's the deal or the hype about American made stuffs. American are not necessarily well know for make quality stuffs....Cars are trash, houses made by cardboard and a bunch of other stuffs.....

[@thesishelp1064]

Good car by engine … infotainment too old for 2013 … too old

[@curtssallee9807]

Venza is better dude....

[@b4ubreak]

all you did was praise American made models and bash the Venza

[@enigmaticfoo]

Lol. Toyota is american.

[@deval_8roblox26]

No more Toyota Venza 😡😡