Absolutely right! I had a bad experience leasing the previous Venza (2.7 L), made in US. Terrible quality of the plastic panels inside, after a year many pieces of the dashboard were popping out.
I bought a corolla for my daughter. made in mexico, the quality fit finish are not very good. I like my JDM 2022 Venza it is an off trail luxury machine.
Just bought a 2024 Venza Limited trim for my wife. Beautiful car. Drives quieter than my Rav4. Dash is more modern looking. Sleek is a good description of the dash. Getting 42.3 mpg as of today. The Stargazer roof is very nice if you live in a cloudy environment. That blast of daylight through the Stargazer makes the grey days nicer.
I pre-ordered this Japanese-import -Venza Limited in Ruby Flare Pearl in October 2022 for my wife and got it before Christmas. It is truly a luxury vehicle. The gas mileage is unbelievable. Its personal best so far is 50.1 MPG. As for the 2023 RAV4, I eventually pre-ordered the XLE Premium in Windchill Pearl for my son and got it a month later. Both are excellent SUVs. We feel fortunate to have both.
@@Gopinathk17 The current generation Venza is Hybrid. Our 2023 RAV4 XLE is gasoline. So, the comparison might not be fair. Anyway, my wife appreciates our son’s RAV4’s bigger space. That is what we use if we need to fit my family of 5 in 1 car. But, my son likes his Mom’s Venza’s quiet and luxurious ride. So, it all depends on which feature you will put priority on.
Wife and I just bought a '21 XLE. My daughter had bought a '23 earlier this year and loves it. We had really never heard of it. Sweet car! Luxurious compared to all we have driven in past at 40 mpg.
Nathan is spot on with his comments. We have a 2020 RAV4 Hybrid XLE and a 2022 Venza LE and prefer the Venza. It also gets better gas mileage. After 25,000 miles on each vehicle the RAV4 sits at ~36mpg vs. the Venza at ~43mpg.
@@benk3654 I ran the factory tires until I they needed replaced, so yes. I wouldnt have considered the factory tires snow performance "good" but manageable. My biggest issue with the factory tires were how weak they were to punctures. I replaced them this last fall with new Pirelli Scorpions and they have performed much better in all driving conditions than the factory tires did.
We just reviewed this ourselves. Was scratching my head the first day of driving it, but by the end of the week, we hated to turn it back in. Its pleasant nature and fuel efficiency just grows on you.
I bought a used 2021 Venza LE and absolutely love it. It does have a Lexus feel to it. And you can actually find these over the Rav 4. The dealership wanted 50k for a new hybrid. Solid pass for me and my wife. I haven’t got the 500 plus miles of range they are claiming but I do drive mostly in a rural area.
Nathan, I got my mom to buy one last year and she loves it, with her not so heavy foot she’s averaging 49 MPG, inspired me to write an article on Hotcars about it. I always recommend it to customers it’s a Lexus in a Toyota clothing
It’s the Toyota Harrier in other markets. For those that don’t know Toyota Harrier was what they called the Lexus RX before Lexus brand launched globally and RX became it’s own model. Venza’s second generation merged with Toyota Harrier like Nissan merged Rogue with it’s global X-Trail model in its second generation.
We got the Rav4 LTD because it has a real sunroof, although our LTD was more expensive than that with a MSRP of just over $44K with options & accessories. If a real sunroof does not matter, I would take the Venza in a heartbeat because they are all assembled in Japan.
I just got the 2023 xle venza and I like it way better then my 2019 rav 4.. the quiet upscale interior plus it was built in Japan… every other car on the road is a rav 4 i love that the venza is unique.
I had a RAV4 and honestly for the size of it. It went through a lot of gas. My girlfriend at the time had the Venza V6 all wheel drive. The thing was absolutely fantastic in the snow honestly even with 20 inch tires it didn’t make any sense but the car worked, so now it looks like Toyota kept the name in name only
We bought a 2021 rav4 xse model. We took the car into Toyota for its first service. Our sales guy let us take out the 2022 Venza LTD model before the service was down on my rav4. We had the deal down for the new Venza we have never looked back. Great car for great road trip.
@@Mildern Please be informed that the current generation Venza is only available in Hybrid. That is why for model years 2023 onwards, Toyota decided to drop the Hybrid nameplate since there is no gasoline only version.
The Venza and the RAV4 Hybrid have plenty of power. 219 Horsepower is not lacking in power! The RAV4 Hybrid I owned in 2023 got the same mileage as the 2024 Venza I now own, exactly the same. Which is great.
Good vehicle for a real estate agent; dependable, good mpg’s, decent range, quiet/comfortable, awd, etc.. I’d get the xle as it has physical button but smaller screen but it gets better mileage with smaller wheels not to mention its cheaper 😂
I agree. I have a 2021 Venza XLE, I got it to avoid the haptic touch 'buttons'. However if you want that setup for 2023 you can only get it on the base LE trim
You guys always seem to throw shade at the venza. I own a 2021. I think its has plenty of power, low end and top end. And no one seems to mention that the base model starts at $34,xxx. Mine had no options, yet came standard with auto folding mirrors. Auto lift gate. Wireless charging. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. 1 touch up and down on all 4 windows. 8 inch screen. Bought new and now have 26,000 miles on it. My only complaints are that it's a little tight on knee room.
Let me add onto what you said. The wind noise at 60mph is pretty quiet and there is only a very very slight thumping of the wind against the interior of the Venza. Not unpleasant like in the Ford F-250 I have. Couple demerit for the Venza though and that's the lack of power down on the passenger side. I always hit my head getting into the vehicle. I'm only 5'10. Drives me nuts. My wife is short snd doesn't have that problem. An excellent vehicle.
I wished the Rav4 had a quieter ride for wind and road noise as the Venza. The Rav4 noise is acceptable but you really notice it when a long road trips on the highway. A part of me wanted the Venza to be more like the bz4x shape which looks closer to the original Venza.
Love my limited. Had since August 2023. Feels great; like a discount Lexus:) Hearing the Crown looks Interesting and I am sad the Venza label is again retired. Wondering about parts and resale etc.. Regardless very happy so far :) but that is a head scratcher!
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has the exact same engine as the regular Toyota RAV4 gasoline engine. The difference is obviously that the Hybrid also has a battery pack with regenerative charging and four electric motors for 4WD. To say that the Venza is underpowered is incorrect as the RAV4 is not underpowered and both models share the same gas/electric powerplant. My wife owns a 2023 RAV4 Hybrid and l own a RAV4 LE gasoline powered model. And l would say that it is possible that her vehicle outperforms mine (with the same gas engines).
My wife has the a 2020 hybrid rav4. She is supposed to be getting 500+ range but never does. She’s getting about 35mpg so the mpgs aren’t too bad, but the problem is we can only pump about 10 gallons in the 14 gallon tank even when it’s completely empty. There was even a recall to replace the tank and fill tube. The recall helped a little, before the recall we could only pump 8 gallons before the pump would shut off.
@Johnny Neymar nooo. Ravs are Japan too. Not all. Primes are Japan. Certain hybrids, xles, le, limited too. A few by me at my dealer. Japan made. Brand new
When my sister got her rav4 hybrid, she also considered the venza. The issues were the slight price increase and the bigger body. She does not need or want something that big. I realize it isn't THAT big, but it is bigger than she needs so why would she spend the extra money? If Toyota would keep increasing their prime lineup, they could have complete dominance with the cross, rav4 and venza. Unfortunately, that does not appear to be the direction Toyota is going. They already got rid of the Prius prime after something like 2 years and have stated they are starting from scratch with their fully electric vehicles.
Easily spotted on your vin. All venzas are made in Japan. Some rav4 are as well. If your Toyota vin starts with the letter J it’s made in Japan!! The Japanese built Toyotas are better.
I Loved the new Venza, but it only comes with 33 year old depressing grey or death black interior colors that became popular in 1990. I would have bought it but we REFUSE to buy another vehicle with interior colors that have been shoved down everyone’s throats for more than 1/2 my life. I also looked at the new Rav but the fit and finish, the comfort, cabin noise wasn’t nearly as good as my 11 Rav 4WD Limited. Ultimately I chose the Subaru Forester Touring. In 25 the Forester will be available with the Rav / Venza hybrid system. When it comes out I’ll sell my Forester and buy a Forester Touring Hybrid.
Nathen I missed you too along with Andre when I dropped by TFL studios I love your reviews as well !!! Y’all keep doing what you’re doing I watch every day!!
I owned a 2022 venza hybrid limited I love it good on gas very comfortable and quiet lexus like interior thanks for your video take care bye from milton Ontario Canada 🇨🇦
I will never buy a New Toyota vehicle again. Why? Their stupid "subscription" service for options you pay for when you buy the vehicle. Say you buy the top model, loaded with all the options. You may get to use them for a limited time but after 1 year or however long they turn the option(s) off through an online downgrade (not calling it an update) and hold it hostage until you pay a ransom. It's basically ransomware. Some features may require a ransom to use as you drive the vehicle off the dealer lot which is just Bull$hit! Any other manufacturers that pull this garbage will also permanently lose my interest and business.
i have a "21 venza xle. love it...only complaints. 1. paint, chips and wears to easy (driver foot board paint is gone) 2. tires, noisy cant wait to put better tires on. 3. that damn electronic ebrake (god forbid you need to move the car a few feet with the door open or not closed all the way). also even disabling it doesnt disable. car doesnt like what your doing will reenable it
so which is better nathan.....this venza....hybrid....or the rav 4 hybrid....its the same motor slash hybrid.....help us, ???? is it the same mpg or not for different money....
I have a venza 2021 and my wife loves it! Only 200 ponies but it will embarrass any V8 or vs V6 superbads cars outthere! this all wheel drive hybrid system are quicker from 0-40 miles then slows down a little but when it kicks it actually does and also get very good gas mileage when driving long distances I get over 43-46 miles
My 21 Venza limited has NEVER delivered over 430 miles per tank. It NEVER takes more than 11 gallons per tank when showing empty and Toyota claims the tank holds 14.5 gallons. Overall, It’s loud. The low mileage Bridgestone Ecopia tires are loud after 10,000 miles and are terrible in Minnesota winters (changed out for Michelins which has hurt MPG but improves drivability and noise. The Stargazer roof is a gimmick and a non starter for those wanting a opening sunroof. The car squeaks and rattles at 18,000 miles. It’s cramped with no storage in the front or back and finally, at $44,000 is overpriced IMO. It’s leased so it’s gone in 13 months or sooner if I can find something else now.
A six hour roadtrip to houston did not impress me. I wish we would have taken my corolla hybrid. I don’t care for safety sense buuuut I guess you can get used to it. My mom paid a lot for the limited.
Same here, we have a '21 Limited in Northern Minnesota. Worst vehicle we have ever owned. Milage is more like 30-32 MPG most tanks, and is terrible in the snow/ice (so bad, it will get stuck in our driveway with 4-5" of overnight snow). It also drives, sounds and feels like a washing machine or other appliance, absolute zero character. Can't wait for the lease to be up.
wierd my '21 xle easily gets over 500 miles a tank and as far as i know venza's have a 12 gal and a .5gal res tank not 14 gal. as for gas miliage if im hard on it the lowest mpg ive gotten is 38 otherwise average high 40's....as for tires YES they suck. get quieter tires for next set and road noise is so much quieter. and im at 38k miles and i dont hear any squeaks and rattles. also dont get you saying its cramped? and no storage? ive takin it into muddy orchards and it didnt get stuck once (came close thou in clay mud) it must be a limited thing?
I’m might looking forward to get me 2023 in next 2years after I paying off my 2015 Toyota Venza it still feel like luxury Lexus RX but 20215 aren’t Hybird ❤️
The better buy is go straight to a highlander. The Venzas sloping rear roof line kills much of the cargo room, and the rav has pretty cheap materials and little if any NVH materials. For the low 40s, just go to the highlander.
Definitely being a bit Hyperbolic. The Venza has plenty of space for everyday driving. Also, a low 40s Highlander is going to be a stripped LE model, and any Hybrid (let alone Hybrid + AWD) Highlander is going to be hard to obtain at MSRP in this market. An Highlander Hybrid AWD XLE with the 12" screen is $47,000-$48,000 MSRP by the time you get done with destination and port installed accessories. Most dealers are not going to give up that kind of Highlander for MSRP.
I looked at Highlander first, but ended up with a Venza. Unless you need third row seating or the extra cargo, it's just too big of a car. Also the styling will be closer to a RAV4. The Highlander starts at a higher pricepoint to match the technology you would get on a Venza. The big thing I see is the Venza is built for the Japanese/Asian market and a luxury Toyota, while RAV4 and Highlander are appliances/utilities.
@@panzer_TZ Toyota charges far to much for their high end trims anyway. 34k in a rav just to get a sunroof and heated seats for an xle premium? I'd rather spend the money on something larger and deal with things I don't need anyway. Most dealers near me are MSRP, just have to wait for it to arrive. Even then comparing a rav4 limited hybrid at the low-mid 40s vs a highlander hybrid at mid-high 40s, it's a no brainer being it's far larger, has a way more refined ride and NVH materials, and gets extremely similar mileage.
I don't need auch a large vehicle. I'm at that stage in my life where I don't need a Highlander, Sequoia, 4Runner or Highlander. I want a pavement riding, hotel cruising and a coastal driving suv. This was perfect. No more kids, have a dog and wan to just go cruising up and down the coast.
$40+ for a hybrid and they still only get 40mpg. Something is wrong. My mom had a Honda CRX in 1985 that got over 50mpg. Same time period, a friend of mine had a Mitsubishi small pickup with a diesel engine that also got over 50mpg. With all the battery technology these days we should be getting 75 or better. What’s up?
I really wish manufacturers would get away from the non opening sunroofs. Frankly, we were looking at a Model Y, and my wife wanted to open the sunroof.
Wow.. Thanks for the review.. I agree with just about everything you mentioned.. But you didn't mention my biggest gripe about the Venza.. The outward visibility it terrible in my view.. The visibility problem seriously hurts safety. Toyota made the roof, or roofline way way way to low. The A-pillars are slanted back much more horizontally.. This reduces visibility. If Toyota made the Venza more boxy and raised the roofline about two or three inches, it would have made the Venza MUCH better. I'm surprised you didn't mention that ..
I agree but not because of rear view I can get away with that. But the front view for me was cutoff. I'm tall and can't see you where traffic lights are and I own a 2010 Venza same issue. People say lower the seats well I need to lower completely so now I'm uncomfortable as if I'm laying down I want to sit upright. The rav4 has a different boxy easy to see view front.
In many ways yes. But for me, the low ride of a Camry is a dealbreaker. I have a 21 Tundra with a 3 inch lift, and the wife has a 20 Sequoia and the ride height is high and visibility is phenomenal. I rent vehicles almost daily for my job travels and getting in to a car feels as if my rear end is 3 inches off of the ground. It’s too unsettling for me.
last comment about manual transmission, made me cringe. Unfortunately Americans dont really know how to drive a manual (globaly speaking), as I heared engine reving to 3.5k rpm when down shifting. They say they like to have fun but they dont know how to drive it anyway :D, you still need to know how to drive automatic, especially older gears which you need to help with accelaration pedal to switch.
In Canada, the XLE costs more today than the limited trim cost at launch back in (2021?). And to my eye, browsing the specs sheet, almost nothing's changed. So thats a turn off to me
Honestly I love the looks upfront, so gorgeous... However, my gripe with Venza(Toyota marketed this with Harrier other side of Pasific ) is at rear.... Toyota designer going too far with split taillights, turn indicators and reverse lights placed lowered on rear bumper and sized as tiny like pencils.... Last week, this type of car got rear end collision because other motorists failed to notice the indicator.., too low down.., And those indicator and reverse light modules get recalled for mud and flood water damage... Toyota needed radical facelift for its taillights or for next gen models.... Again great front looks but atrociously design fail for its taillights assembly.....
Exactly my thoughts! I would not have missed a beat of purchasing this car if not for that ugly rear. I fell in love with the gorgeous front. If Toyota redesigns that rear to a stellar look, I'm convincing all my Lexus friends to convert.
@@Itstherealdeal453 If that mother was an English Teacher, she might teach you the difference between (wrong) "you're mother" and (correct) "your mother".
I just got my 2023 Venza XLE in grey/blue and I love it. It stands out, since you see so few of them on the road. The exterior design is modern and interior is very sleek. Very economical on gas with the hybrid engine. Can't complain. It fits perfectly for a family of 2-3. Not too big not too small. Toyota hit the sweet spot with the Venza.
The cx50 is getting this drive train in one year but it is going to be built in the joint Toyota/Mazda plant in Alabama. That is what my mazda dealer told me.
My 2 biggest gripes about the Venza are the unsafe, bumper mounted rear turn signals and the lack of leather seats availability. I find the softex cheap and utilitarian.
I noticed a new Kia Forte which they switched the bumper-mounted turn signals to a very brightly lit amber unit. There's no missing them. Toyota should go that way if they insist on putting the blinkers in the wrong place.
Turn signals are questionable. I assume the lack of leather is because it's becoming increasingly unpopular apparently to use real leather. Cause it's cows and you know methane. Another is that this is a Toyota. Gotta keep some of the brand hierarchy. But these are expensive. Would be nice if the Softex was nicer. Thought are just my thoughts and potential reasons. Now I must ask why would you want to sit in a a chair of skin. Just the thought of it creeps me out. SKIN. Ripped off the flesh of a animal. I ain't no environmentalists but that's a hard sale for me when we have alternatives.
@@jimthumerzs2301 perhaps from a distance, but in bumper to bumper traffic in urban areas these turn signals are increasingly becoming called out for their unsafe design.
@@baronvonjo1929 I don’t have issue with synthetic leathers in vehicles. But I expect real leather to be available for a price. Luckily, I read that aftermarket companies are offering genuine leather replacements for manufacturers that peddle their fake leather seats. I am one of the few who would prefer a deep and velvety velour cloth over cheap leather. However, a supple, rich, and intensely soft leather is second to none in my book.
When you use your turn signal aside from the rear turn signals there are bright yellow flashing lights on the side of each mirror so you have to be pretty hard pressed to not see the Venza is planning on making a turn!
Selling point for me was the “J” on the VIN- they are built at the Tahara plant in Aichi Japan, same as 4Runners and larger Lexus SUVs.
exactly.. i would only buy a rav with a J vin too, not sure if there are any still coming from japan
Absolutely right! I had a bad experience leasing the previous Venza (2.7 L), made in US. Terrible quality of the plastic panels inside, after a year many pieces of the dashboard were popping out.
Yes quality assured sorry Mexico
I bought a corolla for my daughter. made in mexico, the quality fit finish are not very good.
I like my JDM 2022 Venza it is an off trail luxury machine.
I was checking the market, trim to trim it’s almost same price with RAV Hybrid
Just bought a 2024 Venza Limited trim for my wife. Beautiful car. Drives quieter than my Rav4. Dash is more modern looking. Sleek is a good description of the dash. Getting 42.3 mpg as of today. The Stargazer roof is very nice if you live in a cloudy environment. That blast of daylight through the Stargazer makes the grey days nicer.
I pre-ordered this Japanese-import -Venza Limited in Ruby Flare Pearl in October 2022 for my wife and got it before Christmas. It is truly a luxury vehicle. The gas mileage is unbelievable. Its personal best so far is 50.1 MPG. As for the 2023 RAV4, I eventually pre-ordered the XLE Premium in Windchill Pearl for my son and got it a month later. Both are excellent SUVs. We feel fortunate to have both.
Which is better rav or venza?
@@Gopinathk17 The current generation Venza is Hybrid. Our 2023 RAV4 XLE is gasoline. So, the comparison might not be fair. Anyway, my wife appreciates our son’s RAV4’s bigger space. That is what we use if we need to fit my family of 5 in 1 car. But, my son likes his Mom’s Venza’s quiet and luxurious ride. So, it all depends on which feature you will put priority on.
Wife and I just bought a '21 XLE. My daughter had bought a '23 earlier this year and loves it. We had really never heard of it. Sweet car! Luxurious compared to all we have driven in past at 40 mpg.
Nathan is spot on with his comments. We have a 2020 RAV4 Hybrid XLE and a 2022 Venza LE and prefer the Venza. It also gets better gas mileage. After 25,000 miles on each vehicle the RAV4 sits at ~36mpg vs. the Venza at ~43mpg.
Ive owned a '21 Venza for about 10 months now in NE indiana. Its been a fantastic vehicle, even in the cold and snow.
Do you use the stock tires in the snow??
@@benk3654 I ran the factory tires until I they needed replaced, so yes. I wouldnt have considered the factory tires snow performance "good" but manageable. My biggest issue with the factory tires were how weak they were to punctures. I replaced them this last fall with new Pirelli Scorpions and they have performed much better in all driving conditions than the factory tires did.
We just reviewed this ourselves. Was scratching my head the first day of driving it, but by the end of the week, we hated to turn it back in. Its pleasant nature and fuel efficiency just grows on you.
I bought a used 2021 Venza LE and absolutely love it. It does have a Lexus feel to it. And you can actually find these over the Rav 4. The dealership wanted 50k for a new hybrid. Solid pass for me and my wife. I haven’t got the 500 plus miles of range they are claiming but I do drive mostly in a rural area.
Ive gotten pretty close to 500 with my '21 but it was with mostly city driving and a lot of light throttle with high EV ratio.
Im getting 485-505 in fill ups if thats what you guys mean by range .
The LE is a seriously good value.
Me neither but I drive a lot kf freeway miles.
Nathan, I got my mom to buy one last year and she loves it, with her not so heavy foot she’s averaging 49 MPG, inspired me to write an article on Hotcars about it. I always recommend it to customers it’s a Lexus in a Toyota clothing
... is she staying under 45mph or something? the rated MPG is far lower.
2023 Toyota Venza Hybrid/MPG
40 city / 37 highway
@@Sir...... I know but with most Toyota hybrids depending on how you drive them, ie: use regen going down hill
You can certainly get 10 MPG over EPA
It’s the Toyota Harrier in other markets. For those that don’t know Toyota Harrier was what they called the Lexus RX before Lexus brand launched globally and RX became it’s own model.
Venza’s second generation merged with Toyota Harrier like Nissan merged Rogue with it’s global X-Trail model in its second generation.
You missed the point on the Stargaze roof. Should have pushed the button to show how it changes from frosted to clear. Superb vehicle.
Right just this in a couple Mercedes and old school in Maybach had this.. quite the oversight
Whoopty doo... 14 hundred bucks? No thanks! Colossal waste of money!
@@kurtp5379It really makes the interior feel roomier.
@@CreachterZ, 😂
The Venza is a gem.
We got the Rav4 LTD because it has a real sunroof, although our LTD was more expensive than that with a MSRP of just over $44K with options & accessories. If a real sunroof does not matter, I would take the Venza in a heartbeat because they are all assembled in Japan.
The Canadian version is built in Japan-:)
44k?! They saw you coming... 😂
I just got the 2023 xle venza and I like it way better then my 2019 rav 4.. the quiet upscale interior plus it was built in Japan… every other car on the road is a rav 4 i love that the venza is unique.
I had a RAV4 and honestly for the size of it. It went through a lot of gas. My girlfriend at the time had the Venza V6 all wheel drive. The thing was absolutely fantastic in the snow honestly even with 20 inch tires it didn’t make any sense but the car worked, so now it looks like Toyota kept the name in name only
I seen one yesterday in person in the parking lot. It gives me previous gen lexus vibes before they went grill crazy.
well the older RX’s used to be based on the Harrier
We bought a 2021 rav4 xse model. We took the car into Toyota for its first service. Our sales guy let us take out the 2022 Venza LTD model before the service was down on my rav4. We had the deal down for the new Venza we have never looked back. Great car for great road trip.
I love my new 2023 venza xle
Lol that rav4 didn't last long!
@@Itstherealdeal453 Us too. My wife and I love our red 2023 Venza Limited.
The Venza just seems so much more modern/upscale than the RAV4. It really feels like a gas version of the bz4X.
You said “gas version of the bz4X”. Forgive me, but which vehicle are you comparing it to?
@@mr3klax the Venza
@@Mildern Please be informed that the current generation Venza is only available in Hybrid. That is why for model years 2023 onwards, Toyota decided to drop the Hybrid nameplate since there is no gasoline only version.
@@mr3klax so? I'm not talking about drivetrains. I'm talking about design and feel.
@@Mildern I see.
In Japan, a phev is coming. hope that comes to the US. And just like the RAV4, it uses the same system as the RAV4 Prime
The Venza look great the downside is the turn signal light. I don't like it on the bumper. bad idea.
The Venza and the RAV4 Hybrid have plenty of power. 219 Horsepower is not lacking in power! The RAV4 Hybrid I owned in 2023 got the same mileage as the 2024 Venza I now own, exactly the same. Which is great.
"Hangin' 10 with Nathan" I like the 'low key' feel of these.
We have a '21 Venza Limited. For us, it is simply amazing.
They used to be old geezer SUV's.
Wow... Filming the video in short sleeves while it's snowing. That's the real boss.
Good vehicle for a real estate agent; dependable, good mpg’s, decent range, quiet/comfortable, awd, etc.. I’d get the xle as it has physical button but smaller screen but it gets better mileage with smaller wheels not to mention its cheaper 😂
I agree. I have a 2021 Venza XLE, I got it to avoid the haptic touch 'buttons'. However if you want that setup for 2023 you can only get it on the base LE trim
@@santoxtremefluffy so the 2023 xle upgrade is actually a downgrade for some of us
You guys always seem to throw shade at the venza. I own a 2021. I think its has plenty of power, low end and top end. And no one seems to mention that the base model starts at $34,xxx. Mine had no options, yet came standard with auto folding mirrors. Auto lift gate. Wireless charging. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. 1 touch up and down on all 4 windows. 8 inch screen. Bought new and now have 26,000 miles on it. My only complaints are that it's a little tight on knee room.
I thought I gave it a positive review .... "Shade?" I don't agree.
Let me add onto what you said. The wind noise at 60mph is pretty quiet and there is only a very very slight thumping of the wind against the interior of the Venza. Not unpleasant like in the Ford F-250 I have.
Couple demerit for the Venza though and that's the lack of power down on the passenger side. I always hit my head getting into the vehicle. I'm only 5'10. Drives me nuts. My wife is short snd doesn't have that problem.
An excellent vehicle.
...and yes, we have taken the Venza 520 miles on one tank (although it has the same filling up the tank issue as the RAV4 - takes forever to complete)
I wished the Rav4 had a quieter ride for wind and road noise as the Venza. The Rav4 noise is acceptable but you really notice it when a long road trips on the highway. A part of me wanted the Venza to be more like the bz4x shape which looks closer to the original Venza.
The new Venza is just as loud as the RAV4. Test drove both.
Yup venza isn’t much quieter. Both need massive improvement in sound control from engine and road/wind. It’s the biggest con imo in rav4.
@@Odat its the tires mostly...change to quieter tires and road noise diminishes greatly
I have both - 2023 Venza Limited and 2023 RAV4 XLE Premium (gas). The Venza is noticeably quieter and a much more comfortable ride.
Love my limited. Had since August 2023. Feels great; like a discount Lexus:) Hearing the Crown looks Interesting and I am sad the Venza label is again retired. Wondering about parts and resale etc.. Regardless very happy so far :) but that is a head scratcher!
Some people say it's loud with road noise, is that true?
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has the exact same engine as the regular Toyota RAV4 gasoline engine.
The difference is obviously that the Hybrid also has a battery pack with regenerative charging and four electric motors for 4WD.
To say that the Venza is underpowered is incorrect as the RAV4 is not underpowered and both models share the same gas/electric powerplant.
My wife owns a 2023 RAV4 Hybrid and l own a RAV4 LE gasoline powered model. And l would say that it is possible that her vehicle outperforms mine (with the same gas engines).
My wife has the a 2020 hybrid rav4. She is supposed to be getting 500+ range but never does. She’s getting about 35mpg so the mpgs aren’t too bad, but the problem is we can only pump about 10 gallons in the 14 gallon tank even when it’s completely empty. There was even a recall to replace the tank and fill tube. The recall helped a little, before the recall we could only pump 8 gallons before the pump would shut off.
My 21 xse rav4 goes 580-600 miles on a tank.
@@fallguy4209 🧢🤥
@@DUNGSTA why I have to lie? I don’t need to lie to impress anyone.
@@fallguy4209 you're lying to yourself
The Venza is only made in Japan so it has that quality going for it.
Alot of rav4s are built in Japan too
@@antoniocognato5023 wrong 😂 Ravs are built in America
@Johnny Neymar nooo. Ravs are Japan too. Not all. Primes are Japan. Certain hybrids, xles, le, limited too.
A few by me at my dealer. Japan made. Brand new
When my sister got her rav4 hybrid, she also considered the venza. The issues were the slight price increase and the bigger body. She does not need or want something that big. I realize it isn't THAT big, but it is bigger than she needs so why would she spend the extra money?
If Toyota would keep increasing their prime lineup, they could have complete dominance with the cross, rav4 and venza. Unfortunately, that does not appear to be the direction Toyota is going. They already got rid of the Prius prime after something like 2 years and have stated they are starting from scratch with their fully electric vehicles.
Is it made in Japan? If so, a huge plus.
Yes
Easily spotted on your vin. All venzas are made in Japan. Some rav4 are as well. If your Toyota vin starts with the letter J it’s made in Japan!! The Japanese built Toyotas are better.
I Loved the new Venza, but it only comes with 33 year old depressing grey or death black interior colors that became popular in 1990.
I would have bought it but we REFUSE to buy another vehicle with interior colors that have been shoved down everyone’s throats for more than 1/2 my life.
I also looked at the new Rav but the fit and finish, the comfort, cabin noise wasn’t nearly as good as my 11 Rav 4WD Limited.
Ultimately I chose the Subaru Forester Touring.
In 25 the Forester will be available with the Rav / Venza hybrid system.
When it comes out I’ll sell my Forester and buy a Forester Touring Hybrid.
David no one cares 😅 crybaby ass bitch
Nathen I missed you too along with Andre when I dropped by TFL studios I love your reviews as well !!! Y’all keep doing what you’re doing I watch every day!!
I owned a 2022 venza hybrid limited I love it good on gas very comfortable and quiet lexus like interior thanks for your video take care bye from milton Ontario Canada 🇨🇦
5:00 163 lb ft is not combined that’s for gas engine only. It’s about 240ish combined.
I’m interested in testing the Mazda CX-70. Six cylinder option which means some get up and go
Is that released yet?
@@PonyFoot123 no, appears sometime this year though. Probably will be a pretty hot car sales wise
This is off my list for no towing. The RAV4 Hybrid and Sienna have at least some towing capacity.
Tow these nuts 😅
Get a truck if you want to tow
I will never buy a New Toyota vehicle again. Why? Their stupid "subscription" service for options you pay for when you buy the vehicle. Say you buy the top model, loaded with all the options. You may get to use them for a limited time but after 1 year or however long they turn the option(s) off through an online downgrade (not calling it an update) and hold it hostage until you pay a ransom. It's basically ransomware. Some features may require a ransom to use as you drive the vehicle off the dealer lot which is just Bull$hit!
Any other manufacturers that pull this garbage will also permanently lose my interest and business.
it's latest trend. Benz & BMW is the notorious.
Ausi has a subscription for their hvac system. Can you believe that?
how quiet is the hybrid Venza? compare to hybrid RAV4 and hybrid Cross? thanks
i have a "21 venza xle. love it...only complaints. 1. paint, chips and wears to easy (driver foot board paint is gone) 2. tires, noisy cant wait to put better tires on. 3. that damn electronic ebrake (god forbid you need to move the car a few feet with the door open or not closed all the way). also even disabling it doesnt disable. car doesnt like what your doing will reenable it
I like the screen, but “blends nicely into the interior” is not exactly the way I’d describe it…😂
Nathan, why do you keep comparing Venza to RAV4? In Japan it is a Raised AWD Camry, as well as Cross for raised Corolla.
so which is better nathan.....this venza....hybrid....or the rav 4 hybrid....its the same motor slash hybrid.....help us, ???? is it the same mpg or not for different money....
Why not put Toyota Safety sense 3.0? Disappointed when a Corolla has 3.0, but a 40K Toyota only has 2.5
Why? There literally no difference between the two.
I have a venza 2021 and my wife loves it!
Only 200 ponies but it will embarrass any V8 or vs V6 superbads cars outthere!
this all wheel drive hybrid system are quicker from 0-40 miles then slows down a little but when it kicks it actually does and also get very good gas mileage when driving long distances I get over 43-46 miles
My 21 Venza limited has NEVER delivered over 430 miles per tank. It NEVER takes more than 11 gallons per tank when showing empty and Toyota claims the tank holds 14.5 gallons. Overall, It’s loud. The low mileage Bridgestone Ecopia tires are loud after 10,000 miles and are terrible in Minnesota winters (changed out for Michelins which has hurt MPG but improves drivability and noise. The Stargazer roof is a gimmick and a non starter for those wanting a opening sunroof. The car squeaks and rattles at 18,000 miles. It’s cramped with no storage in the front or back and finally, at $44,000 is overpriced IMO. It’s leased so it’s gone in 13 months or sooner if I can find something else now.
A six hour roadtrip to houston did not impress me. I wish we would have taken my corolla hybrid. I don’t care for safety sense buuuut I guess you can get used to it. My mom paid a lot for the limited.
Same here, we have a '21 Limited in Northern Minnesota. Worst vehicle we have ever owned. Milage is more like 30-32 MPG most tanks, and is terrible in the snow/ice (so bad, it will get stuck in our driveway with 4-5" of overnight snow). It also drives, sounds and feels like a washing machine or other appliance, absolute zero character. Can't wait for the lease to be up.
wierd my '21 xle easily gets over 500 miles a tank and as far as i know venza's have a 12 gal and a .5gal res tank not 14 gal. as for gas miliage if im hard on it the lowest mpg ive gotten is 38 otherwise average high 40's....as for tires YES they suck. get quieter tires for next set and road noise is so much quieter. and im at 38k miles and i dont hear any squeaks and rattles. also dont get you saying its cramped? and no storage? ive takin it into muddy orchards and it didnt get stuck once (came close thou in clay mud)
it must be a limited thing?
Good thinking on the limited with bigger wheels but how much stuff could they add on it to kill more than 10mpg
Same for my 2022 RAV. Says tank is 14 gallons. I've gotten to as close to E as possible and it takes a little over 12
I have always trusted your opinion on cars. Thanks!
Considering Lexus NX 350H but hard to find…..how would the Venda compare?
Go with the Venza you save money
What do y’all at TFL or really anyone thing the best smelling interior new cars are?
still waiting for mine in canada booked it it december 2022. :)
I’m might looking forward to get me 2023 in next 2years after I paying off my 2015 Toyota Venza it still feel like luxury Lexus RX but 20215 aren’t Hybird ❤️
its interesting that venza xle's are generally cheaper than rav4 hybrid xle
The better buy is go straight to a highlander. The Venzas sloping rear roof line kills much of the cargo room, and the rav has pretty cheap materials and little if any NVH materials. For the low 40s, just go to the highlander.
I was going to say, I’ll never understand crossovers with this sort of shape. What is the point?
Definitely being a bit Hyperbolic. The Venza has plenty of space for everyday driving. Also, a low 40s Highlander is going to be a stripped LE model, and any Hybrid (let alone Hybrid + AWD) Highlander is going to be hard to obtain at MSRP in this market. An Highlander Hybrid AWD XLE with the 12" screen is $47,000-$48,000 MSRP by the time you get done with destination and port installed accessories. Most dealers are not going to give up that kind of Highlander for MSRP.
I looked at Highlander first, but ended up with a Venza. Unless you need third row seating or the extra cargo, it's just too big of a car. Also the styling will be closer to a RAV4. The Highlander starts at a higher pricepoint to match the technology you would get on a Venza. The big thing I see is the Venza is built for the Japanese/Asian market and a luxury Toyota, while RAV4 and Highlander are appliances/utilities.
@@panzer_TZ Toyota charges far to much for their high end trims anyway. 34k in a rav just to get a sunroof and heated seats for an xle premium? I'd rather spend the money on something larger and deal with things I don't need anyway.
Most dealers near me are MSRP, just have to wait for it to arrive. Even then comparing a rav4 limited hybrid at the low-mid 40s vs a highlander hybrid at mid-high 40s, it's a no brainer being it's far larger, has a way more refined ride and NVH materials, and gets extremely similar mileage.
I don't need auch a large vehicle. I'm at that stage in my life where I don't need a Highlander, Sequoia, 4Runner or Highlander.
I want a pavement riding, hotel cruising and a coastal driving suv. This was perfect. No more kids, have a dog and wan to just go cruising up and down the coast.
$40+ for a hybrid and they still only get 40mpg. Something is wrong. My mom had a Honda CRX in 1985 that got over 50mpg. Same time period, a friend of mine had a Mitsubishi small pickup with a diesel engine that also got over 50mpg. With all the battery technology these days we should be getting 75 or better. What’s up?
I really wish manufacturers would get away from the non opening sunroofs. Frankly, we were looking at a Model Y, and my wife wanted to open the sunroof.
Now all Toyota has to do is work on the grill. Something similar to the Avalon’s grill would be sick
Wow.. Thanks for the review.. I agree with just about everything you mentioned.. But you didn't mention my biggest gripe about the Venza.. The outward visibility it terrible in my view.. The visibility problem seriously hurts safety. Toyota made the roof, or roofline way way way to low. The A-pillars are slanted back much more horizontally.. This reduces visibility. If Toyota made the Venza more boxy and raised the roofline about two or three inches, it would have made the Venza MUCH better. I'm surprised you didn't mention that ..
Take out the back seat head rests when you don’t need them. Much more visibility out the back window!
You h the shift goes to “Manuel” when you have it in S push it to the right
Excellent. I wouldn’t buy anything other than Toyota
I agree but not because of rear view I can get away with that. But the front view for me was cutoff. I'm tall and can't see you where traffic lights are and I own a 2010 Venza same issue. People say lower the seats well I need to lower completely so now I'm uncomfortable as if I'm laying down I want to sit upright. The rav4 has a different boxy easy to see view front.
"... If Toyota made the Venza more boxy and raised the roofline about two or three inches,
..." yeah, and call it a RAV4 while they're at it :-)
Where would this vehicle line up size wise compared to an Explorer, Traverse, etc?
Closer to the Escape or Equinox in size
@@NathanDAdlen thanks! Bit too small for my liking. The wife had an Escape years ago.
What is Kit and why are you saying it?
If you're looking for the best just choose the Camry..better at all from all SUVs
In many ways yes. But for me, the low ride of a Camry is a dealbreaker. I have a 21 Tundra with a 3 inch lift, and the wife has a 20 Sequoia and the ride height is high and visibility is phenomenal. I rent vehicles almost daily for my job travels and getting in to a car feels as if my rear end is 3 inches off of the ground. It’s too unsettling for me.
Great detail here Nathan! Thank you
last comment about manual transmission, made me cringe. Unfortunately Americans dont really know how to drive a manual (globaly speaking), as I heared engine reving to 3.5k rpm when down shifting. They say they like to have fun but they dont know how to drive it anyway :D, you still need to know how to drive automatic, especially older gears which you need to help with accelaration pedal to switch.
I called it the high end RAV4 😊
How are the seats ?????very very small
damn the '23 compass I ordered was $38K so its in the same price range wow, still think jeep is better but this looks nice
You got ripped off if you paid 38k for a glorified Fiat platform.
Isn't nightshade a poison?
prop rod? no thanks, that just tells me they're trying too hard to cut costs considering my 2013 camry has gas lifts for the hood
The Venza is better drives better and more comfortable but not many people know about the Venza so that's on toyota
In Canada, the XLE costs more today than the limited trim cost at launch back in (2021?). And to my eye, browsing the specs sheet, almost nothing's changed. So thats a turn off to me
Dandy! Thanks for the review. A couple nice points that other reviewers haven't addressed.
It’s the same platform and engine and platform as the rav4.
Honestly I love the looks upfront, so gorgeous...
However, my gripe with Venza(Toyota marketed this with Harrier other side of Pasific ) is at rear....
Toyota designer going too far with split taillights, turn indicators and reverse lights placed lowered on rear bumper and sized as tiny like pencils....
Last week, this type of car got rear end collision because other motorists failed to notice the indicator.., too low down..,
And those indicator and reverse light modules get recalled for mud and flood water damage... Toyota needed radical facelift for its taillights or for next gen models....
Again great front looks but atrociously design fail for its taillights assembly.....
Exactly my thoughts! I would not have missed a beat of purchasing this car if not for that ugly rear. I fell in love with the gorgeous front. If Toyota redesigns that rear to a stellar look, I'm convincing all my Lexus friends to convert.
@@misswegan I think the rear looks sharp 😅 you’re mother thought so to as she watched me leave her house 😊
@@Itstherealdeal453 If that mother was an English Teacher, she might teach you the difference between (wrong) "you're mother" and (correct) "your mother".
It reminds me a bit of a Subaru Outback, of course different power train.
Batteries are different for the Venza, Lithium Ion
Well, did you buy it?
That is such a dad attire from the shirt to hat to wacth 😂
You do great reviews Nathan.
2023 XLE VENZA are fantastic!😊 I don’t care for the night shade
I just got my 2023 xle venza and I love it.. every other car on the road is a rav 4 and I like being unique
I just got my 2023 Venza XLE in grey/blue and I love it. It stands out, since you see so few of them on the road. The exterior design is modern and interior is very sleek. Very economical on gas with the hybrid engine. Can't complain. It fits perfectly for a family of 2-3. Not too big not too small. Toyota hit the sweet spot with the Venza.
Black wheels look stupid
I'm sorry it looks like Grandma car that got blacked out... I chose 2023 Honda CRV Sports Touring Hybrid "in dark blue" back in January
The screen looks better than the one in the NX/RX
I like this vehicle, great review
Very comfortable to drive.
How many times did he say RAV4?
Is it made in Japan?
These are/were only made in Japan, alongside it's Japanese twin called the Harrier.
no moonroof option ???, unlike the RAV4.
If I'm riding from LA to Denver, I want to be in an E-class.
Quiet 90 mph.
My 2021 Venza have highway wind noise after about 70 mph . anyone same ?
I love the Toyota Harrier!
I suspect this will take over the Avalon sales numbers, not the Crown.
Don't like the all Black interior....
I definitely laughed at that outro 😂😂
it can't tow! at least the Rav4 can tow 1500 - 3500 lbs (depending on model)
For some reason people don’t buying it. It’s nice inside, but outside… Better seats, but much smaller cargo.
I wish the cx-50 had this drive train
The cx50 is getting this drive train in one year but it is going to be built in the joint Toyota/Mazda plant in Alabama. That is what my mazda dealer told me.
VENZA is GREAT!
The thing has no towing capacity, which is unacceptable for an SUV.
WHAT??! What happened to the prices?? This thing should not be more than about 29G. That’s always been the normal price for a car like this.
My 2 biggest gripes about the Venza are the unsafe, bumper mounted rear turn signals and the lack of leather seats availability. I find the softex cheap and utilitarian.
I noticed a new Kia Forte which they switched the bumper-mounted turn signals to a very brightly lit amber unit. There's no missing them. Toyota should go that way if they insist on putting the blinkers in the wrong place.
Turn signals are questionable.
I assume the lack of leather is because it's becoming increasingly unpopular apparently to use real leather. Cause it's cows and you know methane.
Another is that this is a Toyota. Gotta keep some of the brand hierarchy. But these are expensive.
Would be nice if the Softex was nicer.
Thought are just my thoughts and potential reasons.
Now I must ask why would you want to sit in a a chair of skin. Just the thought of it creeps me out. SKIN. Ripped off the flesh of a animal. I ain't no environmentalists but that's a hard sale for me when we have alternatives.
@@jimthumerzs2301 perhaps from a distance, but in bumper to bumper traffic in urban areas these turn signals are increasingly becoming called out for their unsafe design.
@@baronvonjo1929 I don’t have issue with synthetic leathers in vehicles. But I expect real leather to be available for a price. Luckily, I read that aftermarket companies are offering genuine leather replacements for manufacturers that peddle their fake leather seats. I am one of the few who would prefer a deep and velvety velour cloth over cheap leather. However, a supple, rich, and intensely soft leather is second to none in my book.
When you use your turn signal aside from the rear turn signals there are bright yellow flashing lights on the side of each mirror so you have to be pretty hard pressed to not see the Venza is planning on making a turn!