Many Toyota vehicles have left their mark on history, and the Venza is no exception. The first generation of the model is infamous for being one of the most stolen vehicles of its time. Aside from its name, the old and the new Venza have nothing in common, but reliability and versatility are among the many factors that have helped the Venza establish a solid reputation. The 2024 model may be quite different, but it certainly lives up to its reputation, and I believe that's why the Japanese manufacturer decided to reuse the name.
The 2024 Toyota Venza doesn't introduce any major innovations except for some improvements and additions across its different trim levels. The current model has been in place since 2020 as a 2024 model, so it's still relatively young. However, we can certainly expect a significant update or even a complete redesign in the coming years. Nevertheless, the Japanese manufacturer's SUV remains very compelling in its current form, offering a lot for its price.
Range and Price
The 2024 Toyota Venza lineup consists of three models, starting with the LE version with a starting price of $45,101.50. For this amount, you get a fully equipped package that includes an 8-inch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Next is the XLE version, which offers a larger touchscreen, improved design elements, and more, with a starting price of $51,341.50. Finally, the Limited version sits at the top of the lineup, priced at $54,801.50. Here, you get luxury elements and higher-end finishing. To be honest, I believe there's a need for at least a sporty or off-road enhanced version to make the 2024 Venza SUV lineup truly complete. However, if you're not looking for dominance in either of those two areas, the Venza definitely has everything to offer.
Category and Competition
The Toyota Venza competes in a segment where competition is particularly fierce, and diversity is crucial. As mentioned earlier, Toyota would be wise to design an off-road or sporty version of the Venza, as that's precisely what most of its competitors are doing. Think of the Ford Edge ST or the Jeep Grand Cherokee, for instance. There are also several vehicles offering plug-in hybrid versions in the two-row midsize SUV category. Ultimately, it's not a necessity, but the Venza could certainly benefit from a bit more diversity in its lineup.
Rivals: Chevrolet Blazer, Ford Bronco, Ford Edge, Honda Passport, Hyundai Santa Fe, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler, Kia Sorento, Nissan Murano, Subaru Outback, Toyota 4Runner, Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport.
Design and Technology
It can be said that Toyota has changed its design formula in recent years, with more aggressive and sharply defined models like the Rav4, Sequoia, and Tundra. However, not all models have taken this route, as is the case with the Venza, which opts for a design with softer and more understated lines. The Japanese manufacturer's SUV offers a more elegant and refined finish. In fact, its design is closer to a Lexus model than a Toyota, which is something I really like.
Toyota has also done excellent work in the interior. Once again, it reflects a quality level higher than the average. The dashboard design is anything but boring, and the ergonomics have been carefully considered. The only thing Toyota could have added, in my opinion, is a fully digital dashboard because the current dashboard design feels a bit cluttered.
The Japanese manufacturer has made no compromises in terms of technology. The Venza comes with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite as standard. Even though the 12.3-inch touchscreen is not available on the base model, it offers wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which is a significant plus. Moreover, in terms of the multimedia system, the navigation is straightforward, smooth, and, most importantly, very clear.
Performance
What I particularly like about the second generation of the Venza is that Toyota has chosen to go with a standard hybrid powertrain. The Japanese manufacturer's SUV is powered by a combination of a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and 3 electric motors, resulting in a total output of 219 horsepower. The Venza comes with a continuously variable transmission and all-wheel drive as standard. Despite its size and weight, the Japanese manufacturer's SUV manages to maintain an average fuel consumption of 5.9 L/100 km in the city and 6.4 L/100 km on the highway, which is simply exceptional.
Weak Points
We would like to see a more luxurious version, a plug-in hybrid, or simply a sportier version. Toyota recommends not towing with the Venza, which is certainly a significant drawback for the model.
Strengths
It comes well-equipped as standard, and its price remains very reasonable. It is elegant and offers advanced technologies at all levels. The Toyota Venza also has one of the lowest fuel consumption rates in its category. It is a reliable, comfortable, and very enjoyable vehicle to drive.
Signature Feature
The Toyota Venza is the closest thing to a luxury SUV from Toyota. Its driving experience is unique and highly refined.
In Conclusion
If we look past its low average fuel consumption, it can't be said that the Toyota Venza dominates in its segment. However, it's a vehicle that offers a better overall average than most of its rivals. Its practicality may not be as developed as some of its competitors, but the Venza is undoubtedly one of the best choices for daily commuting.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
