While the Venza is a new entry in Toyota's 2021 SUV lineup, it revives a name that was retired after the 2015 model year.The new 2021 Venza will slot between the compact RAV4 and the mid-size Highlander SUV in Toyota's lineup. It's based on the Harrier SUV that Toyota sells abroad, which we always thought would make a fine SUV for the North American market; apparently Toyota agrees. Unlike the Harrier, which is sold with both hybrid and conventional non-hybrid powertrains, the U.S. market Venza will be powered exclusively by a hybrid system.
The all-new 2021 Toyota Venza is a hybrid crossover with solid fuel economy ratings, an upscale cabin, and comfortable seats. However, it also has less cargo space than many rivals and lacks athleticism.
Pros Posh interior Roomy, supportive seats Cushioned ride
Cons Some usability issues with the larger infotainment screen Subpar cargo capacity and high cargo hold load floor Not as fun to drive as rivals
All-new midsize SUV. Available exclusively as a hybrid. Kicks off the second-generation Venza.
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
The 2021 Toyota Venza brings an upscale flair to the compact crossover class to go with its efficient and reasonably powerful hybrid powertrain.
Pros Hybrid powertrain has enough guts and thrifty fuel economy Looks like a Lexus Fancy interior finish Standard active safety features Standard all-wheel drive
Cons Less room than RAV4 Can top $40,000 Slushy acceleration Tight rear seat head room
The 2020 Lexus RX 450hL comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic.New front and rear fascia, new suspension hardware.New optional 12.3-inch touchscreen and increased standard safety equipment.Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard.
Pros Impeccable cabin finished with top-quality materials and construction Advanced safety features come standard Excellent fuel economy for a luxury crossover Wide cargo bay makes it easy to load luggage and groceries
Cons Third-row space is tight for anyone other than small kids Less overall cargo capacity than competitors
The 2020 Lexus RX Hybrid ranked #4 in Luxury Hybrid and Electric SUVs. Currently the Lexus RX Hybrid has a score of 8.1 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 28 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent gas mileage Serene ride Upscale interior
Cons Not as fun to drive as rivals Subpar cargo capacity Sloped roofline limits visibility and cargo utility
The RX's exterior looks sporty and aggressive but its driving dynamics tell a different story.
Pros Great real-world highway fuel economy, plenty of safety equipment, cushy ride.
Cons Clumsy handling, frustrating infotainment system controls, mediocre acceleration performance.