2021 Toyota Venza Review

Name: 2021 Toyota Venza
Brand: Toyota

Price Range: $18,596 - $33,998

The 2021 Toyota Venza's aggressive new styling borrows cues from Lexus and other luxury brands. Its interior design is upmarket too. On the downside, the Venza doesn't offer as much passenger and cargo space as its rivals, and it's not rated for towing. But if you value comfort, technology and great fuel efficiency, the Venza is an excellent pick.

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2021 Toyota Venza Review

Pros

High fuel economy
Standard all-wheel drive
Luxury-level interior quality
Quiet and comfortable ride

Cons

One of the smallest midsize SUVs
Higher cost of entry
Not rated for towing

What's new

All-new midsize SUV
Available exclusively as a hybrid
Kicks off the second-generation Venza

Overview

Written by automotive expert Jonathan Elfalan

7/22/2020

Hey, the Venza is back! Did you miss it? Considering the lack of shed tears or internet outcry back when Toyota binned the original Venza after the 2015 model year, the answer would probably be, "No, not really." But a 2021 Toyota Venza is here nonetheless, and it's got a few new party tricks to show off.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near Spring, TX

42 listings

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2021 Toyota Venza
XLE 4dr SUV
$22,994
good price
- 91,414 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 40 City / 37 Hwy MPG
- Fred Haas Nissan (4 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Upgraded Headlights
Close
Located in Tomball, TX
Certified. CARFAX One-Owner. 40/37 City/Highway MPGClean CARFAX. Coastal Gray Metallic 2021 Toyota Venza XLEVenza XLE Hybrid, Nissan Certified Sele...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
39 Combined MPG (40 City/37 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTEAAAAH7MJ056332
Stock: MJ056332T
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 08-08-2025
2021 Toyota Venza
XLE 4dr SUV
$23,995
great price
- 64,130 miles
- 1 accident, 1 owner, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 40 City / 37 Hwy MPG
- Car Guys (5 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Upgraded Headlights
Close
Located in Houston, TX
LOADED WITH VALUE! Comes equipped with: Air Conditioning, Bluetooth. This Toyota Venza also includes Clock, Climate Control, Multi-Zone Climate Contro...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
39 Combined MPG (40 City/37 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTEAAAAH6MJ055317
Stock: 055317
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 11-12-2024

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The new Venza competes with other midsize crossover SUVs such as the Chevrolet Blazer, Honda Passport, Subaru Outback and Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. These models are known for their abundance of passenger and cargo room. Oddly, this is something the new Venza is a bit short on. However, it does have something they don't: a standard hybrid powertrain.

All Venzas use a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors (one dedicated to charging) to send power through a continuously variable automatic transmission to its front wheels. A single rear motor also provides power to the rear wheels when you need extra traction. It's a similar setup to the RAV4 Hybrid and Highlander Hybrid SUVs. Total output is 219 horsepower. This might not seem like much given that the Passport's V6 cranks out 280 hp, for example, but we've found acceleration to be perfectly adequate. Plus, it's smooth, quiet and gets you a Toyota-estimated 39 mpg in combined city/highway driving.

Overall, we think highly of the Venza and recommend it if you're looking for an SUV that's stylish, upscale and fuel-efficient.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Good

7.8

out of 10

We drove the 2021 Toyota Venza on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

7.5/10

How does the Venza drive? The specs for the Venza's four-cylinder hybrid powertrain don't look like much on paper, but this SUV is adequately quick in real-world acceleration. In Edmunds testing it covered 0-60 mph in 7.6 seconds. That's a second behind the Honda Passport but quicker than a V6 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The Venza's handling doesn't quite match its sporty looks, but it is tidy and confident as you go around turns. When you're just commuting around town, Toyota's mastery of blending gas and electric power shows through and the Venza delivers smooth and virtually lag-free acceleration.

Comfort

8/10

How comfortable is the Venza? Toyota paid special attention to dialing up the comfort level in the Venza. The cabin is well insulated from the sounds of the outside environment, and the engine doesn't have the same annoying drone as it does in the RAV4 Hybrid. The Venza also delivers excellent ride comfort, feeling more like a Lexus in the way it dispatches bumps and handles highway dips.

The front seats are both comfortable and supportive. Our Limited trim test vehicle featured front seats with heat and ventilation, but we didn't find the seat ventilation to be all that effective. Thankfully, the dual-zone climate control provides more than adequate cooling. Rear passengers have pretty comfortable seats as well, with reclining seatbacks and climate control vents to ensure good air flow.

Interior

7.5/10

How’s the interior? We consider the Venza a rival to other midsize SUVs such as the Honda Passport and Subaru Outback. However, it has less interior space than those vehicles and generally matches the RAV4, which is a class size smaller. This isn't to say it's cramped inside; it's just that it's not as roomy as other SUVs in the same price range.

The rest of the interior is quite good. Toyota's latest (optional) 12.3-inch infotainment screen offers a user-friendly interface and menu structure. Below this screen are upgraded touch-sensitive controls for the climate control and radio. They work OK and are responsive, but we'd still prefer standard push buttons and knobs.

The Venza's sleek body is relatively easy to climb in and out of and offers excellent forward visibility. The thick rear roof pillars obscure some of the natural view over your shoulder, but blind-spot monitoring is standard to help you out while changing lanes. Our Limited trim came with a 360-degree parking camera system that takes much of the guesswork out of maneuvering in tight spaces.

Technology

8/10

How’s the tech? Toyota has finally caught up with the industry on smartphone integration, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features in the Venza. The projection of your phone's apps doesn't use up all of the space on the optional 12.3-inch touchscreen, but it spans a good amount and leaves room for additional on-screen controls. The native navigation system isn't as elegant, quick or easy as phone-based navigation apps, but it's nice to have in case you don't have a cell signal. Four USB ports plus a wireless charger provide power on the go for all devices on board.

Toyota has also come a long way with its advanced driver aids, and many come as standard equipment. Adaptive cruise control works down to a full stop, and lane-centering assist keeps you in bounds without ping-ponging off lane markers. It's one of the more comprehensive and well-executed systems in the segment.

And we'd be remiss if we didn't mention the Venza's optional tint-on-demand electrochromic panoramic sunroof. With the push of a button, you can switch from clear glass to opaque white. It effectively blocks out much of the direct sun and heat but maintains a bright cabin space.

Storage

7/10

How’s the storage? Size matters when it comes to storage, and the Venza is smaller than most in the class. The cargo area is usable and doesn't look that small in isolation, but at 28.8 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, it trails the class by a good margin (even the RAV4 offers more space) and has a slightly awkward liftover height. The 60/40-split seats fold flat, and you can store the cargo cover under the load floor when it's not in use. A hands-free tailgate is standard, something some competitors only offer on top-trim models.

Cabin storage for small items is also limited. Most bins are smaller than those you'll find in the average midsize crossover, and the Venza even lacks overhead space for sunglasses. For those with child seat needs, things are considerably better. Anchors are easy to access and we didn't have any issues installing a large rear-facing infant seat. But drivers over 6 feet will likely need to locate the seat on the passenger side.

It should also be noted that the Venza has not been rated for towing.

Fuel Economy

10/10

How’s the fuel economy? Preliminary fuel economy estimates are 39 mpg (40 city, 37 highway). However, we observed an impressive 44.3 mpg when driving our 115-mile real-world evaluation route. Granted the Venza only comes as a hybrid, but it obliterates everything in the segment in efficiency. The next most efficient SUV is the Subaru Outback (which is considerably slower) at 29 mpg combined. If our result is an accurate representation, we expect the Venza to routinely match or exceed its economy estimates.

Value

8.5/10

Is the Venza a good value? While the Venza's cost of entry is higher than most in this segment, it has the interior quality and exterior styling of a Lexus. You won't be able to get into a Venza for less than $33,000, but it does come with a significant number of standard features such as a full suite of advanced driving aids, LED headlights and taillights, and a hands-free liftgate. The fully loaded Limited trim is competitively priced with segment leaders too.

Additional benefits for the Venza beyond Toyota's basic three-year/36,000-mile warranty include lengthier hybrid powertrain coverage for eight years/100,000 miles. Toyota also recently extended its battery warranty coverage to 10 years/150,000 miles. Free scheduled maintenance is included for the first two years/25,000 miles, and there's roadside assistance for the first two years of ownership.

Wildcard

8/10

The Venza has returned with a healthy amount of personality. It's destined to be more popular than its predecessor just based on its aggressive new design alone. But that sportier look isn't backed up by athletic performance. Sure, it's adequately quick and very fuel-efficient, but it's not the weekend-joyride type unless the point is seeing how far you can get on a tank of gas.

But, if like us you value substance, then the Venza excels in almost all the important areas for this midsize SUV class and rewards you with a well-rounded driving experience.

2021 Toyota Venza trim level differences

The 2021 Toyota Venza is a midsize SUV that comes with more standard features than most in its segment. It's offered exclusively as a hybrid with all-wheel drive and comes in three trim levels: LE, XLE and Limited. Highlight features include:

Which Venza trim does Edmunds recommend?

The Venza's higher starting price means it comes pretty nicely equipped from the start. Since that's the case, we'd go with the base LE model. It gets you Toyota's full suite of advanced driver aids, a hands-free liftgate, LED headlights, and keyless entry and ignition. You won't be able to upgrade to the larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, but we think the standard 8-inch screen and controls are easier to use anyway.

Compare 2021 Toyota Venza trim levels

Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Texas

$90/mo

$159/mo

Avg. Midsize SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

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Reliability

The 2021 Toyota Venza has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 1 recall. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, ranks it #5 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

4 out of 5 stars4/5Excellent

#5 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

$374/yr

vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV

Frequency

0.75x/yr

vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV

Severity

10.7%

vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV

Recalls

1 recall found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 22V239000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 22TA03, 22
Number of vehicles affected:: 458110
Defect Description:: Toyota Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022 Lexus LX 600, Lexus NX 350h, Lexus NX 450h+, Toytoa RAV4 Hybrid, 2021-2022 Lexus LS 500h, Toyota Mirai, RAV4 PRIME, Sienna, Venza, and 2020-2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vehicles. The Skid Control ECU software may not turn on the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system when the vehicle is restarted after the driver has disabled the VSC system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
Defect Consequence:: Driving with a deactivated stability control system increases the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will update the Skid Control ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 27, 2022. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 22TA03. Lexus' number for this recall is 22LA01.

Warranty

3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
Hybrid component Warranty: 8 years / 100,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 5 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 2 years / unlimited miles
Free maintenance Warranty: 2 years / 25,000 miles

Toyota Venza Owner Reviews

4.3

145 reviews

5(59%)

4(24%)

3(8%)

2(4%)

1(5%)

See all 145 reviews Write a vehicle review

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Perfect car for SOME people

JimB, 10/19/2020

2021 Toyota Venza XLE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)

We are an active, retired couple who love to travel. No need for 3rd row seats, looking for comfort, safety assistance, and fuel efficiency. We bought the upgraded seat package, but didn’t want the moonroof. Also opted to use Apple Play & our phones for navigation because write-ups indicated the 12” screen w/nav was overly complicated versus the 8” screen w/o nav. Wanted a good audio …

Definitely a great car for SOME people!

RMH, 12/11/2020

2021 Toyota Venza Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)

I went from a BMW X3 m40i to this car. From the first week I had the BMW, I had issues with the brakes, the electronics, total engine shutdown, and the list goes on. Yes, it was fun to drive (when it was running) but I was tired of being a frequent flier at the local BMW service center. My family and friends have Toyotas and can vouch for their reliability, so I began researching the …

Best car I have owned.

Flatkansas, 07/24/2021

2021 Toyota Venza LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)

Very quiet, smooth stable ride. I like how the engine shuts off coasting, braking, or stopped at a light. It make very very little sound or vibration when the gas motor starts/stops. I have driven conventional gas (non-hybrid) vehicles with auto engine stop/start that are very annoying. I was at bit concerned about the added complexity of a hybrid, but Toyota has been making hybrids …

Venza is a Lexus 350

Jack, 12/15/2020

2021 Toyota Venza Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)

Traded in my 2016 Rav 4 Hybrid Limited for the 2021 Venza Limited w/o the moonroof. As a big fan of the Toyota Safety features this Venza has sensors for about any fender bender & up imaginable. The cameras are awesome including the front end view & 360 look around. I like the Technology, 12” screen & navigation, easy to use.Toyota throws in the first year on Safety Connect that connects …

See all 145 reviews of the Toyota Venza

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2021 Venza Highlights

Trim:

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$32,670
Engine Type	Hybrid
Combined MPG	39 MPG
Cost to Drive	$90/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	28.8 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the Venza models:

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Uses front-mounted radar and cameras to maintain a preset speed and distance to the vehicle ahead. Operates down to a stop.
Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection: Warns you of an impending collision with a vehicle, pedestrian or bicycle. Can apply the brakes to avoid or mitigate damage.
Lane tracing assist: Works with adaptive cruise control to keep the vehicle centered in the lane with small steering inputs.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver4 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover15.5%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Acceptable
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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2021 Toyota Venza Review

Selling or Trading-In?

Price & Payment

2021 Toyota Venza Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

For sale near Spring, TX

2021 Toyota VenzaXLE 4dr SUV

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

2021 Toyota VenzaXLE 4dr SUV

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

2021 Toyota Venza trim level differences

Which Venza trim does Edmunds recommend?

Cost to Drive

Reliability

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

Cost

Frequency

Severity

Recalls

Warranty

Toyota Venza Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Perfect car for SOME people

Definitely a great car for SOME people!

Best car I have owned.

Venza is a Lexus 350

2021 Venza Highlights

Safety

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2021 Toyota Venza
XLE 4dr SUV

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XLE 4dr SUV