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 Acura RDX is a stylish, strong-performing crossover SUV worthy of a place on any shopping list.
Pros Good looks Powerful turbo-4 Classy interior design Impressive AWD system Priced right
Cons Convoluted controls Rear seat could be better So-so fuel economy Rivals offer more cachet
The 2020 Acura RDX ranked #2 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Acura RDX has a score of 8.6 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 32 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Balanced ride Good fuel efficiency Plenty of technology features Lots of cabin space
Cons Non-intuitive infotainment system No engine upgrades available
The 2020 Acura RDX comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 10-speed shiftable automatic.No significant changes this year.Part of the third RDX generation introduced for 2020.
Pros Roomy cabin and cargo area Sharp steering and handling Well-trimmed cabin Lots of available tech for much less than competitors
Cons No choice of powertrain Options are bundled solely into packages Overall performance lags behind competitors
