The 2023 Toyota Venza blends elegance with efficiency, making it an appealing choice in the midsize SUV market. With its hybrid-only powertrain, the Venza offers an eco-friendly alternative for those seeking fuel efficiency without compromising on style or comfort. Positioned as a more premium offering than Toyota’s RAV4, it attracts drivers who appreciate a refined, quieter, and more sophisticated driving experience.
The Venza’s exterior styling is sleek and upscale, featuring a sloping roofline, sharp character lines, and a bold front grille. Its aerodynamic shape, accented by LED headlights and taillights, gives it a modern yet elegant profile. The large, 19-inch alloy wheels (available on higher trims) add a sense of confidence to its design, while the overall silhouette keeps it refined and upscale.
Powering the 2023 Venza is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, resulting in a combined output of 219 horsepower. As a hybrid-only SUV, the powertrain delivers smooth, quiet performance, with the electric motors assisting during acceleration. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is tuned for efficiency, but it still manages to deliver adequate power when needed. All-wheel drive is standard, providing extra traction and stability in various driving conditions.
On the road, the Venza offers a composed and comfortable ride. Its suspension is tuned for smoothness, absorbing bumps well and providing a cushioned feel. While not a sporty vehicle, the Venza handles daily commutes and long highway trips with ease. The transition between electric and gasoline power is seamless, making it an easy-to-drive hybrid that prioritizes refinement over athleticism.
Fuel economy is one of the Venza’s strong suits, thanks to its hybrid powertrain. It achieves an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway, impressive for an SUV of its size. These numbers make it a great option for those seeking a fuel-efficient vehicle without having to opt for a smaller model or a plug-in hybrid.
Safety is a priority for the 2023 Venza, which comes standard with Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5 suite of driver assistance technologies. This includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning with steering assist, automatic high beams, and forward collision mitigation. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also standard, making the Venza a well-rounded package when it comes to safety.
Inside, the Venza offers a high-quality and spacious cabin with seating for five. The interior materials are upscale, with soft-touch surfaces and available leather upholstery. The design is modern and functional, with a floating center console and plenty of storage compartments. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, while the rear seats provide ample legroom for passengers. Although cargo space is slightly limited compared to some rivals, the Venza’s overall cabin experience is premium and well-suited for daily driving.
In terms of technology, the Venza is well-equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard, while a larger 12.3-inch display is available on higher trims. Both screens come with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. Other tech features include a head-up display, wireless smartphone charging, and a premium JBL sound system. The available Star Gaze panoramic roof, which can change from transparent to frosted at the touch of a button, adds a unique luxury touch to the driving experience.
The 2023 Venza comes in three trims: LE, XLE, and Limited. The base LE starts at around $34,000 and includes features like dual-zone climate control, a power driver’s seat, and the Toyota Safety Sense suite. The XLE trim, priced at about $38,000, adds features like larger wheels, heated front seats, and a hands-free power liftgate. The top-tier Limited trim, starting at approximately $42,000, offers ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, the larger touchscreen, and a premium sound system.
The 2023 Toyota Venza is a strong contender in the hybrid SUV market. Its stylish design, comfortable interior, and impressive fuel economy make it a great choice for those looking for a premium, eco-friendly midsize SUV. With a range of trims to suit different needs and budgets, the Venza offers a refined, fuel-efficient alternative to traditional gasoline-powered SUVs.
