If you haven’t checked out the 2023 Toyota Venza lately, it remains a solid choice for those who want a reliable and fuel-efficient vehicle. Sitting somewhere between a crossover SUV and a sedan, the Venza gets a lot right.
Overview and Design
The Venza’s design closely follows the aesthetic of the luxurious Lexus brand, offering a more upscale feel than its mechanically identical sibling, the RAV4 Hybrid. It features a refined exterior look and a luxurious interior, with a notable focus on technology. The Venza, however, struggles to stand out in terms of spaciousness and versatility compared to its RAV4 counterpart and other competitors in the midsize SUV segment.
Performance and Fuel Economy
All 2023 Venza models are equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, complemented by three electric motors and a lithium-ion battery, producing a total system output of 219 hp. With standard all-wheel drive, the vehicle offers a combined fuel efficiency of approximately 39 mpg. However, it’s worth noting that the powertrain can feel stressed under medium throttle and gets loud when accelerating on highways.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The Venza’s interior is where it truly shines. The materials inside feel premium, akin to a Lexus model, with soft and smooth surfaces and comfortable seating, even over long distances. The rear seat offers ample room for adults, complemented by impressive cargo space. Technologically, the Venza boasts a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, and a user-friendly control layout.
Safety and Reliability
For safety, the 2023 Venza comes with Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5 suite, which includes various driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control and lane tracing assist. In terms of warranty, it offers a basic coverage of 3 years/36,000 miles and extended coverage for hybrid/electric components for eight years/100,000 miles.
Handling and Driving Impressions
The Venza offers a confident driving experience with controlled body roll and an impressive all-wheel-drive system. While it doesn’t feel as engaging as the smaller RAV4, it navigates well on city streets and provides a serene highway cruising experience. The driving modes (Eco, Normal, and Sport) don’t significantly alter the driving experience, keeping it more comfort-focused rather than performance-oriented.
Final Verdict
The 2023 Toyota Venza is a more luxurious, refined alternative to the RAV4 Hybrid and other compact SUVs. It offers a well-rounded package focusing on comfort, fuel efficiency, and technology, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a nearly premium automobile experience. The suggested model for the Venza experience is the Limited trim, which includes luxury features like a larger touchscreen and leather seats.
Overall, the 2023 Toyota Venza is a commendable choice in the midsize SUV market, especially for those prioritizing a blend of luxury, technology, and efficiency. However, potential buyers might want to consider its interior space and cargo capacity limitations, as well as its driving dynamics compared to non-hybrid rivals.
