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 2019 Mazda CX-9 is more than just a pretty face. Along with its attractive style comes plenty of utility and a quick and sporty driving character that enhances the typical three-row family shuttle.Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are newly available.Retuned suspension for a smoother ride.New surround-view parking camera system.
PROS Premium interior, especially the top-level Signature trim Sporty handling Comfortable and quiet on the highway
CONS Cargo capacity isn't as generous as in competitors Third-row seats aren't especially accommodating
The 2019 Mazda CX-9 delivers heavily on style, but it’s just adequate in other respects.
Pros Gorgeous sheetmetal Near-luxury interior Widely available safety tech Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, finally
Cons No touchscreen functionality Not as much space as competitors Limited options No hybrid alternative
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto finally join the spec sheet for 2019 and are standard on Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature trims. Mazda has included a list of other optional features for 2019 as well, which includes ventilated front seats, a 360-degree-view exterior camera system, SiriusXM Travel Link (live traffic and weather updates, among other things), a digital gauge display, power-folding exterior mirrors, and a frameless rearview mirror. The luxurious Signature trim now comes with a new wood trim inside and exclusive exterior badging.
Pros Sweetest-driving three-row, fuel-efficient powertrain, near-luxury interior.
Cons Compromised cargo room, tight third row, no second-row captain's chairs.
