Why is 2021 Venza such a big deal?
Previously, the Prius was the sole Toyota model to be available only as a hybrid
IT is perhaps not that unusual for a nameplate to return after a multiyear absence, but it is unusual for it to return as an all-wheeldrive hybrid. That’s right, there is no non-hybrid version of the 2021 Toyota Venza.
That’s a bold move unless you think the same way Toyota does: that hybrids and not necessarily battery-electric vehicles are where it’s at. For now, at least. In fact, the redesigned Sienna minivan is also hybrid only.
The redesigned Venza is noticeably smaller than its predecessor, which naturally translates into less cargo volume, with the rear-seatback either upright or folded flat. The distance between the front and rear wheels is actually the same as that of the RAV4.
Whether you take a shine to the exterior styling — which seems almost Lexus-like — the passenger environment is something quite special. It’s incredibly elegant and understated.
The 8- and available 12.3-inch touch screens are easily viewed, but there is a mild learning curve to the controls.
On the plus side, the Venza uses a traditional console shifter instead of dials or switches for gear/direction selection.
The standard all-wheel-drive hybrid system consists of a 176-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder and three electric motors — including one supplying power to the rear wheels — for a net output of 219 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque. That is a bit light to handle the Venza’s 3,900-pound heft, but
the electric motors do provide significant low-speed power.
It’s only when accelerating to higher speeds that the modest power rating is quite glaring. The transmission is a continuously variable unit with selectable Normal, Eco and Sport drive modes.
What the Venza might lack in outright performance, it makes up for in fuel economy. The hybrid system is rated at 40 mpg in the city, 37 on the highway and 39 combined. That’s better than any nonhybrid competitor by a wide margin. An animated display between the driver’s gauges indicates when the hybrid is in electric mode and when the regenerative braking system is operating.
The lithium-ion battery pack is beneath the rear seat, so it doesn’t interfere with cargo stowage or passenger room.
When launching from a dead stop or in slippery or icy road conditions, all-wheel-drive sends up to 80 percent of the system’s torque to the rear wheels. In normal steady-state cruising, 100 percent of the hybrid’s power is sent to the front wheels. When cornering, light braking pressure is applied to the inside rear wheel to slow it down (a form of yaw control), which helps the Venza turn with less understeer and therefore more stability.
Venza pricing starts at $33,750, including destination charges, which compares with $30,000 for the RAV4 hybrid and $39,700 for the larger Highlander hybrid, which has three rows of seats.
The base Venza LE comes with a decent degree of content, such as a power driver’s seat, interior ambient lighting, wireless phone charging, hands-free power liftgate and a six-speaker audio system. You also get most of Toyota’s active-safety technology and driver-assist features.
The XLE adds roof rails, front- and rear-parking assist, heated and ventilated power front seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror and fancier interior/exterior trim.
With the 12.3-inch touch screen, the Limited arrives with a 360-degree surround-view camera, puddle lights to illuminate the ground when the doors are opened, heated and cooled front seats, heated steering wheel and a nine-speaker, 1,200watt Jbl-brand audio package.
Optional for the Limited is the stunning and mesmerizing Star
Gaze panoramic glass roof that can go from clear to frosted and back, as needed, at the press of a button.
If you’re in need of cavernous cargo capacity with off-road capability, then other Toyota utility vehicles are likely better suited to your needs. But with all-weather versatility combined with upscale looks and content, the reconstituted fuel-sipping Venza is a definite contender.