Another similar sized crossover SUV is the Mazda CX-50. It doesn't sip fuel quite as gingerly, but offers a lot of strengths. Check out my review here: ruclips.net/video/YufZoDwfwCk/видео.html
I bought my Toyota Venza limited January 2021 after test driving four different RAV4 hybrids. I immediately noticed it was quieter and the seats were more comfortable than the RAV4. Also for some reason the JBL sound system sounded better in the Venza than in the RAV4. The stargaze roof is gimmicky and if you're a true sunroof person you're going to want to stick with a RAV4. It also prevents you from installing roof rails for kayaks and such. I decided to go forgo the accessory hitch and instead opted for an aftermarket actual hitch even though I only use it for my rather heavy e-bikes. Just a few weeks after my purchase we got about an 8-in snowfall in my location so I took it out and romped on it in the fresh snow in a parking lot trying to see if the computer controlled rear wheel drive would react fast enough. I just could not make it get squirrely and it performed very well. Obviously in a snowy climate you would need actual snow tires but the all-season stock tires didn't do bad. Also in colder climates you fuel economy will suffer a little due to the extra drain caused by defrosters, heated seats and the like. I still typically got around the claimed gas mileage of 37 highway 39 City. In warmer climates my gas mileage approaches nearly 50 MPG. People need to understand also that the ecvt transmission has absolutely nothing in common with a CVT and is nearly bulletproof. about the kindest thing that can be said about this car is that you don't notice it's a hybrid. As a driver you will rarely notice when regenerative braking is being applied and that's a good thing. Due to the regenerative breaking you will also rarely need to replace your brakes which will help offset the cost of a hybrid battery many years down the road. If I had it to do over again I would still order a limited edition but for go the gimmicky stargaze roof. It's also my understanding that the newer models have wireless Android auto and Apple carplay as well as an updated infotainment system. It truly is a Lexus Lite compared to a RAV4, but the RAV 4 can carry more cargo. When I anticipate heavy traffic I drive in sport mode which engages the rear motor more quickly giving the feel of adding an instant torque turboesque feel to the acceleration. I test drove a hybrid Avalon which was only front wheel drive. In sport mode the Avalon was sluggish compared to either a RAV4 hybrid or a Venza. So much so it was a hard pass for me. The Avalon was also harder to get in and out of since it set so low to the ground. The amazing thing is the 40% thermal efficiency of the internal combustion engine. It is an Atkinson cycle which opens the valves for a small portion of the compression cycle so the engine isn't fighting its own compression making efficiency the number one goal rather than horsepower. I've suffer from insomnia so often times, when driving at night during low traffic I have achieved Prius level 50 MPG trips multiple times. I now have 25k on my Venza and I am averaging 44mpg. That's pretty solid performance from an all wheel drive crossover.
@@viewsonvehicles I can't recommend the Toyota Venza highly enough. My friends give me a hard time about driving a Grandma car, but I honestly like it. You don't even notice you're driving a hybrid. I do wish you could select a mode and have it stay in that mode until you switch it. I also have had problems with the cargo space since it narrows in the back quite a bit compared to a RAV4. I also miss having a straight up sunroof that actually opens to get fresh air without having the wind blow in the side windows. I'm an old man now so I'm not a big sunroof guy anymore I don't like the glare. It's also my understanding that newer models have wireless Android auto and Apple carplay and an updated infotainment system so what I thought was going to be the last car I buy before I shop for an urn it's probably going to be my second to last car because I'll trade mine in on a newer model, sans the gimmicky roof and ride it out until it's time for my kids to fill the urn with my ashes. I am a recovering audiophile and do consider the near clinical frequency response of the JBL sound system to be quite nice.
Nice detailed review! I basically agree with all your points. I typically avg about 42MPG, but i live in a somehwat hilly (Seattle) area. My last ride was a 2015 RAV4 Limited, and my '21 Venza XLE is WAY quieter, with more power, and much smoother. The ride is much more compliant, and the build quality and materials much better. There can be noticeable road noise on coarse pavement -- I think Toyota has a product strategy to withhold some level of sound dampening to make you want a Lexus. But this is nearly a Lexus for significantly less (based on how inventory is actually equipped at dealers). And the new Lexus NX has even less cargo space. I can totally accept the marginally lesser space of Venza vs. RAV4. It is direcly comparable to the space in models such as X3, RDX, etc.
@@powerguymark Thanks for the owner perspective. I plan to cancel my Tesla Model Y order ($47000 after tax credit). I already put down a deposit for a 2023 Venza Limited ($43000). Wait time is 8-10 months. 😊 I have much higher confidence on Toyota reliability over Tesla, although part of me really want to own a Tesla. But, this Venza is a keeper for at least 300000 miles or 20 years.
I bought my Venza Limited March 2021. I am in love with my car!!!!! I selected the high tech package including the HUD. This is all standard now with this trim. I did not go with the sunroof. I drove a 2014 Venza which I replaced with this now 2 year old Venza. I simply love everything about this new version, the styling, the comfort and the performance! Just love it!
@@marilynnscorner345 Absolutely ! Its the best car I have ever had. If you haven't had a hybrid before , just be ready for the Hybrid noises it makes. They are all normal. Just filled up last evening , and got 45.5 mpg for the last tank.
@zonie1953. Could you elaborate on the noise from a hybrid? I am the new owner of a 2024 XLe Venza. I’ve noticed a deep humming sound as if the car is unable to switch gears. There is no particular time of day or event that it occurs, but it happens at least 4-5 times a week. Thank you so much!
Just got word from my Toyota dealership that my new 2023 Venza limited will be here at the end of March. Thanks for the very detailed review. Can’t wait to start driving mine. 22:49
I had a 2010 Venza and I was amazed how many features it had vs the RAV4 and how much cheaper it was because no one knew what a Venza was. Just totalled it a year ago and waited 14 months and found a '21 Venza for $30k and I'm still amazed how little fanfare it gets vs the RAV4. I just wished they kept the extra lighter on the passengers side as the older Venza because it was the perfect location to power my dashcam. The only thing I didn't like was the lighter in the arm rest but I'm over really happy I finally bought a hybrid vehicle. 410 miles to a tank vs 300 miles on my old one.
410 miles per tank is only 27 miles per galon not even close to 37. I use at work a Ford Transit Connect not hybrid and it give me 31mpg average the manufacturer spec say 24/27.
Thanks for sharing your video i owned a 2022 venza hybrid limited I love it good on gas good power very comfortable i watch some other guy test the venza on highway they are complaining to noisy on highway 🛣 for me is very quiet i owned a lot of cars in past but the venza is very nice to drive but I always drive with the ECO mode i never put in the sport mode thanks again take care bye from milton Ontario Canada 🇨🇦
Great review! We bought our 2022 Venza XLE in Blizzard Pearl last year. So far it has been a fantastic vehicle and I like the fact it is built in Japan.
Thank you for your review. It made me feel good about the decision I made a couple of months ago when I blindly pre-ordered the 2023 Venza Limited. Mine is in Ruby Flare Pearl (Red) exterior with the Boulder (Gray) interior. Of course with the Stargaze roof. ETA is in 6 days. Cheers!
@@viewsonvehicles I got the 2023 Venza Limited in Red 4 days earlier than scheduled ETA (ie, Dec 23, instead of Dec 27, 2023). She looks gorgeous! My family of 5 which fits just fine only has positive things to say about it. Obviously, it is still in its break-in period or honeymoon stage meaning any comment might be too pre-mature. But, we are loving it so far.
@@loiswendt9359 I would say I got lucky. It was last October 22 and I attended a Bible Study. The pastor and I talked about our respective Toyota Siennas during fellowship. And I mentioned that I was in the market for a 2023 Venza and the difficulty I was experiencing in getting one in today's market. He told me that he can connect me to an out-of-state dealership in NC if I don't mind driving 380 miles (6 hours) one-way. And the rest is history. I got the car with all the options and features that I specified on December 23, 2022 - in just 2 months. The pastor's friend was the general sales manager, that is why.
I've been mixed between Venza and RAV4. I think if Venza could tow anything at all, I would not even be on the fence about it. But I'm retired military, and have no desire for extreme adventure. LoL I'll probably go for the nice ride.
I have a 2021 Venza, if your buying one make sure Toyota is going to warranty the high voltage cable from corrosion. So far the 2021 is not covered and I could be looking at a 6 thousand dollar repair after three year warranty is up.
Greetings, I recently bought a Venza 2023 limited and I could hear in your video that you talk about a functionality in the curves. If I'm not mistaken, you said something about corner assistant, I can't find that function in my Venza, could you help me?
Was this during the highway driving portion of the video? I think you might be referring to Lane Tracing Assist, which is part of the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 system. I believe you have it.
Very nice and detailed review. Quick question: does that gold color on it have any shimmer or sparkle to it like pearl paints have? Or is it a flat color?
It has shimmers just like on the white version. It's an option which carries a premium. But, IMHO is really worth it. ADDENDUM: I think I need to clarify that the shimmer that I was referring to was only for the Ruby Flare (Red) and Blizzard (White) exterior which are the only colors available in Pearl.
Me personally? I like the Venza a lot and take it over a RAV4. It's a bit larger and more refined. But the RAV4 has lots of strengths and more options on how to configure it to your personal tastes. My two cents.
The 2012 Avalon's EPA ratings of 20 MPG in the city 29 MPG highway match or even exceed those of midsize six-cylinder models, a testament to Toyota's technology. The Avalon is certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV
@Jaime Garon well I take very good care of mine and have gotten 34 on highway and it's good enough without the expense of hybrid also when you do a full fuel system service it does improve fuel quite a bit,used cars make the best new cars
@@naveenthemachine the seats are more comfortable than a RAV4. It's quieter than a RAV4. Even the JBL sound system sounds better even though there shouldn't be any difference. Being that I own both a 2022 rav4 limited and a 2021 Venza I think I know what I'm talking about. I'll bet my bottom dollar you don't own either one...
@@powerguymark the venza is nicer than a RAV4 yes I agree but considering it’s compromises I don’t think it’s worth it. That said I’d much prefer the venza to the Lexus nx
@@billyrock8305 Ooo. Well, if money is taken out of it, the NX350h, hands down. More power, and a bit more driving fun, etc. But with the nearly 10K difference in price, and the high levels of refinement in the Venza, I'd probably get the Toyota. By the way, I did review the non-hybrid NX350, if you're at all curious: ruclips.net/video/jmwR6zPxdHc/видео.html
Another similar sized crossover SUV is the Mazda CX-50. It doesn't sip fuel quite as gingerly, but offers a lot of strengths. Check out my review here: ruclips.net/video/YufZoDwfwCk/видео.html
The interior in the Cx 50 is so cheap. Everything squeaks and rattles after about 10k miles.
Just got our 2024 Venza XLE(in titanium glow) after a 2 year wait. Couldn't be happier with it.
I bought my Toyota Venza limited January 2021 after test driving four different RAV4 hybrids. I immediately noticed it was quieter and the seats were more comfortable than the RAV4. Also for some reason the JBL sound system sounded better in the Venza than in the RAV4. The stargaze roof is gimmicky and if you're a true sunroof person you're going to want to stick with a RAV4.
It also prevents you from installing roof rails for kayaks and such.
I decided to go forgo the accessory hitch and instead opted for an aftermarket actual hitch even though I only use it for my rather heavy e-bikes. Just a few weeks after my purchase we got about an 8-in snowfall in my location so I took it out and romped on it in the fresh snow in a parking lot trying to see if the computer controlled rear wheel drive would react fast enough. I just could not make it get squirrely and it performed very well. Obviously in a snowy climate you would need actual snow tires but the all-season stock tires didn't do bad.
Also in colder climates you fuel economy will suffer a little due to the extra drain caused by defrosters, heated seats and the like. I still typically got around the claimed gas mileage of 37 highway 39 City. In warmer climates my gas mileage approaches nearly 50 MPG. People need to understand also that the ecvt transmission has absolutely nothing in common with a CVT and is nearly bulletproof. about the kindest thing that can be said about this car is that you don't notice it's a hybrid. As a driver you will rarely notice when regenerative braking is being applied and that's a good thing. Due to the regenerative breaking you will also rarely need to replace your brakes which will help offset the cost of a hybrid battery many years down the road. If I had it to do over again I would still order a limited edition but for go the gimmicky stargaze roof. It's also my understanding that the newer models have wireless Android auto and Apple carplay as well as an updated infotainment system.
It truly is a Lexus Lite compared to a RAV4, but the RAV 4 can carry more cargo.
When I anticipate heavy traffic I drive in sport mode which engages the rear motor more quickly giving the feel of adding an instant torque turboesque feel to the acceleration. I test drove a hybrid Avalon which was only front wheel drive. In sport mode the Avalon was sluggish compared to either a RAV4 hybrid or a Venza. So much so it was a hard pass for me. The Avalon was also harder to get in and out of since it set so low to the ground. The amazing thing is the 40% thermal efficiency of the internal combustion engine. It is an Atkinson cycle which opens the valves for a small portion of the compression cycle so the engine isn't fighting its own compression making efficiency the number one goal rather than horsepower. I've suffer from insomnia so often times, when driving at night during low traffic I have achieved Prius level 50 MPG trips multiple times.
I now have 25k on my Venza and I am averaging 44mpg. That's pretty solid performance from an all wheel drive crossover.
Appreciate reading your owners perspective. Thank you
@@viewsonvehicles I can't recommend the Toyota Venza highly enough. My friends give me a hard time about driving a Grandma car, but I honestly like it. You don't even notice you're driving a hybrid. I do wish you could select a mode and have it stay in that mode until you switch it. I also have had problems with the cargo space since it narrows in the back quite a bit compared to a RAV4. I also miss having a straight up sunroof that actually opens to get fresh air without having the wind blow in the side windows. I'm an old man now so I'm not a big sunroof guy anymore I don't like the glare. It's also my understanding that newer models have wireless Android auto and Apple carplay and an updated infotainment system so what I thought was going to be the last car I buy before I shop for an urn it's probably going to be my second to last car because I'll trade mine in on a newer model, sans the gimmicky roof and ride it out until it's time for my kids to fill the urn with my ashes.
I am a recovering audiophile and do consider the near clinical frequency response of the JBL sound system to be quite nice.
Nice detailed review! I basically agree with all your points. I typically avg about 42MPG, but i live in a somehwat hilly (Seattle) area. My last ride was a 2015 RAV4 Limited, and my '21 Venza XLE is WAY quieter, with more power, and much smoother. The ride is much more compliant, and the build quality and materials much better. There can be noticeable road noise on coarse pavement -- I think Toyota has a product strategy to withhold some level of sound dampening to make you want a Lexus. But this is nearly a Lexus for significantly less (based on how inventory is actually equipped at dealers). And the new Lexus NX has even less cargo space. I can totally accept the marginally lesser space of Venza vs. RAV4. It is direcly comparable to the space in models such as X3, RDX, etc.
@@powerguymark Thanks for the owner perspective. I plan to cancel my Tesla Model Y order ($47000 after tax credit).
I already put down a deposit for a 2023 Venza Limited ($43000). Wait time is 8-10 months. 😊
I have much higher confidence on Toyota reliability over Tesla, although part of me really want to own a Tesla.
But, this Venza is a keeper for at least 300000 miles or 20 years.
@@khliew79 please leave your thoughts after you receive your new Venza. I'd love to hear them.
I bought my Venza Limited March 2021. I am in love with my car!!!!! I selected the high tech package including the HUD. This is all standard now with this trim. I did not go with the sunroof. I drove a 2014 Venza which I replaced with this now 2 year old Venza. I simply love everything about this new version, the styling, the comfort and the performance! Just love it!
I have '22 Venza LE . The LE was the top of the line for my budget ! Absolutely love this car !
I'm thinking about getting one. Are you still in love with it?
@@marilynnscorner345 Absolutely ! Its the best car I have ever had. If you haven't had a hybrid before , just be ready for the Hybrid noises it makes. They are all normal. Just filled up last evening , and got 45.5 mpg for the last tank.
@zonie1953. Could you elaborate on the noise from a hybrid? I am the new owner of a 2024 XLe Venza. I’ve noticed a deep humming sound as if the car is unable to switch gears. There is no particular time of day or event that it occurs, but it happens at least 4-5 times a week. Thank you so much!
the toyta venza is such a good car for the price
Just got word from my Toyota dealership that my new 2023 Venza limited will be here at the end of March. Thanks for the very detailed review. Can’t wait to start driving mine. 22:49
You're welcome! I hope it comes early.
The steep slope of the rear window means less cargo space, probably harder to load a taller item.
The engine sounded very LOUD during this review.
I had a 2010 Venza and I was amazed how many features it had vs the RAV4 and how much cheaper it was because no one knew what a Venza was. Just totalled it a year ago and waited 14 months and found a '21 Venza for $30k and I'm still amazed how little fanfare it gets vs the RAV4. I just wished they kept the extra lighter on the passengers side as the older Venza because it was the perfect location to power my dashcam. The only thing I didn't like was the lighter in the arm rest but I'm over really happy I finally bought a hybrid vehicle. 410 miles to a tank vs 300 miles on my old one.
Always good to hear an owner's perspective. Thank you.
410 miles per tank is only 27 miles per galon not even close to 37. I use at work a Ford Transit Connect not hybrid and it give me 31mpg average the manufacturer spec say 24/27.
@Hector Lopez thanks for the correction. I meant to type 510 miles (14.5g tank) which is 35mpg.
Thanks for sharing your video i owned a 2022 venza hybrid limited I love it good on gas good power very comfortable i watch some other guy test the venza on highway they are complaining to noisy on highway 🛣 for me is very quiet i owned a lot of cars in past but the venza is very nice to drive but I always drive with the ECO mode i never put in the sport mode thanks again take care bye from milton Ontario Canada 🇨🇦
Thank you from your next door neighbor in Michigan! And I'm with you, wind noise overall is well subdued.
Great review! We bought our 2022 Venza XLE in Blizzard Pearl last year. So far it has been a fantastic vehicle and I like the fact it is built in Japan.
Thank you so much! And I'm glad you're happy with yours.
I sense wind noise on the highway. Maybe some DIY products can reduce it. Love the comfy seats!
Thank you for your review. It made me feel good about the decision I made a couple of months ago when I blindly pre-ordered the 2023 Venza Limited. Mine is in Ruby Flare Pearl (Red) exterior with the Boulder (Gray) interior. Of course with the Stargaze roof. ETA is in 6 days. Cheers!
You're welcome! I hope you enjoy it.
How did you even get a Venza limited? I have mine ordered mine over a year ago and now they say it will be another year before I get it.
@@loiswendt9359 Toyota gave it to me for a few days to review. I do not own this Venza.
@@viewsonvehicles I got the 2023 Venza Limited in Red 4 days earlier than scheduled ETA (ie, Dec 23, instead of Dec 27, 2023). She looks gorgeous! My family of 5 which fits just fine only has positive things to say about it. Obviously, it is still in its break-in period or honeymoon stage meaning any comment might be too pre-mature. But, we are loving it so far.
@@loiswendt9359 I would say I got lucky. It was last October 22 and I attended a Bible Study. The pastor and I talked about our respective Toyota Siennas during fellowship. And I mentioned that I was in the market for a 2023 Venza and the difficulty I was experiencing in getting one in today's market. He told me that he can connect me to an out-of-state dealership in NC if I don't mind driving 380 miles (6 hours) one-way. And the rest is history. I got the car with all the options and features that I specified on December 23, 2022 - in just 2 months. The pastor's friend was the general sales manager, that is why.
Very informative video. Could you please make video of Lexus LX none Subscription and subscription remote start technology features
Thank you! I'll Look into a Lexus LX explainer.
The 2023 Venzas come with Safety Sense 2.5
That's true and good for others to know. My press car was a 2022 Venza and came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0
I've been mixed between Venza and RAV4. I think if Venza could tow anything at all, I would not even be on the fence about it. But I'm retired military, and have no desire for extreme adventure. LoL I'll probably go for the nice ride.
Yeah, the Venza is quite comfortable. And easy to use.
I have a 2021 Venza, if your buying one make sure Toyota is going to warranty the high voltage cable from corrosion. So far the 2021 is not covered and I could be looking at a 6 thousand dollar repair after three year warranty is up.
Where is this cable located that would subjected it to moisture or corrosion, if I ever get the chance to inspect a 2023 Venza?
@@roncoleman8351 it’s the high voltage cable plug that plugs into the rear electric motor. You can see it the only one there.
Did they fix the steering column rattle?
Thanks!
Thank you so much! I really appreciate this.
Well done. Lots of good information.
Thank you!
At 9:58, I see the Dealer carry Dash Cam, I 'd appreciate someone let me know brand and where to get..
great informative video. whats the color of the venza
Thank you very much! The color is called Titanium Glow.
Greetings, I recently bought a Venza 2023 limited and I could hear in your video that you talk about a functionality in the curves. If I'm not mistaken, you said something about corner assistant, I can't find that function in my Venza, could you help me?
Was this during the highway driving portion of the video? I think you might be referring to Lane Tracing Assist, which is part of the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 system. I believe you have it.
The cab feels tight
Plus $5000 price gouge by our local dealers
Very nice and detailed review. Quick question: does that gold color on it have any shimmer or sparkle to it like pearl paints have? Or is it a flat color?
Thank you! I wouldn’t say it shimmers, no.
It has shimmers just like on the white version. It's an option which carries a premium. But, IMHO is really worth it.
ADDENDUM: I think I need to clarify that the shimmer that I was referring to was only for the Ruby Flare (Red) and Blizzard (White) exterior which are the only colors available in Pearl.
@@mr3klax nice. It’s a fun detail to have.
Idk which to get this or the rav4 ?
Me personally? I like the Venza a lot and take it over a RAV4. It's a bit larger and more refined. But the RAV4 has lots of strengths and more options on how to configure it to your personal tastes. My two cents.
Shhhhh..... a hidden Lexus
Question. Can running boards be install on it 😅
Not from the factory that I could find.
US car prices are so cheap....my country has the 2nd most expensive car price in the world..
Yeah, we tend to have lower prices in the world auto market, we are lucky. If you don't mind sharing, what country are you from?
Man my 2012 avalon cost $42000 less and has a v 6😄😄
@@jaimegaron4222 34 highway
So this a lie?
The 2012 Avalon's EPA ratings of 20 MPG in the city 29 MPG highway match or even exceed those of midsize six-cylinder models, a testament to Toyota's technology. The Avalon is certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV
@Jaime Garon well I take very good care of mine and have gotten 34 on highway and it's good enough without the expense of hybrid also when you do a full fuel system service it does improve fuel quite a bit,used cars make the best new cars
Sounds so noisy
You certainly hear some wind noise, but it's muffled and in the background, generally. Not as quiet as the best Toyota's, still pretty good.
Way too compromised. Not worth it at all
Envy is a bad character trait...
Not even remotely accurate.
It's almost the ultimate daily driver.
@@powerguymark less legroom headroom and cargo space than a rav4? Means the ultimate daily driver…?
@@naveenthemachine the seats are more comfortable than a RAV4. It's quieter than a RAV4. Even the JBL sound system sounds better even though there shouldn't be any difference. Being that I own both a 2022 rav4 limited and a 2021 Venza I think I know what I'm talking about.
I'll bet my bottom dollar you don't own either one...
@@powerguymark the venza is nicer than a RAV4 yes I agree but considering it’s compromises I don’t think it’s worth it. That said I’d much prefer the venza to the Lexus nx
Exceptionally high value for the money. Topgun. ✅
Excellent review ✅
(Please list both American 🇺🇸 and Canadian 🇨🇦 prices)
Thank you very much!
@@viewsonvehicles You’re welcome!
Venza hybrid Vs Lexus NX350h? 🤔
@@billyrock8305 Ooo. Well, if money is taken out of it, the NX350h, hands down. More power, and a bit more driving fun, etc. But with the nearly 10K difference in price, and the high levels of refinement in the Venza, I'd probably get the Toyota. By the way, I did review the non-hybrid NX350, if you're at all curious: ruclips.net/video/jmwR6zPxdHc/видео.html
@@viewsonvehicles Yeah it’s a tough comparison!