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 Jeep Cherokee comes with four wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 9-speed shiftable automatic.No significant changes for 2020.
Pros Available V6 and turbocharged engines provide smooth and assertive power Absorbent suspension smooths out rough surfaces Capable and user-friendly 8.4-inch touchscreen on many models Trailhawk offers unique off-road capability for a small crossover
Cons Sluggish acceleration with the base 2.4-liter engine Less cargo capacity than other small crossovers
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee cashes in on off-road prowess and luxury features but comes up short elsewhere.
Pros High-quality cabin Sliding second-row seat Trailhawk off-road capability Sharp infotainment system Wide range of powertrains
Cons Lack of standard active safety tech Bland styling So-so fuel economy Inconsistent 9-speed transmission Smaller interior than competitors
The Cherokee underwent a significant mechanical and cosmetic update for the 2019 model year, so changes to the 2020 version are minimal. Newly available, though, is an Advanced Safety Group package that includes lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Jeep also is offering two new paint colors for the new year: Sangria and Spitfire Orange.
Pros Legitimate off-road capability, good ride and handling for the class, Jeep badge adds cred.
Cons Poor fuel economy, limited cargo space, not a great value.
