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
When the Pilot’s too big and the CR-V is too small, the 2020 Honda Passport two-row crossover SUV is just the ticket.
Pros Comfortable interior Refined on the road Decent off-road chops Good 8.0-inch touchscreen on some models
Cons 9-speed automatic is a little confused Expensive in top models Not too adventurous in style Not as tough as some may need
The Passport returns largely unchanged for 2020.
Pros Spacious interior with lots of passenger space Comfortable front seats Enhanced off-road ability Many clever storage compartments
Cons Adaptive cruise control is only available over 20 mph Driver's seat might be positioned a little too high for some people
For 2020, Honda doesn't make any meaningful changes to the Passport lineup. This is to be expected since the company just re-released the two-row crossover last year.
Pros Loads of cargo and passenger space, speedy powertrain, copious standard driver assists.
Cons Looks more rugged than it is, only top trims have top options, rides rough on bumpy roads.
