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 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class ranked #12 in Luxury Midsize SUVs. Currently the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class has a score of 8.3 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 46 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Lots of powerful engine choices Posh interior Above-average cargo space (in non-coupe models) Lengthy features list
Cons Less athletic than many competitors Coupe has limited cargo space and visibility Finicky engine stop-start system
Performance, plug-in, or pedestrian: there’s a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE for almost every luxury-SUV buyer.
Pros Wide palette of body styles, powertrains, trims GLE Coupe, for the well-to-do contrarian Powertrain choice abounds Composed, quiet ride
Cons AMG = $$$ Not so fuel-efficient Addled infotainment interface Odd feature availability Coupe body costs money, space
The AMG GLE 43 is slightly more powerful, increasing engine output from 362 horsepower to 385 hp. Otherwise, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is unchanged for 2018.
PROS Multiple available powertrains make each model distinct Interior is quiet, upscale and roomy Abundant list of standard safety, tech and luxury features AMG variants are seriously quick
CONS Not many places to store small personal items Punishing ride on AMG models, with little benefit to handling Ride quality with the standard suspension isn't as comfy as we expect Base V6's acceleration is merely adequate
