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 Lexus NX 300h comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic. Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 added as standard.Lane departure warning, lane keeping assist and forward collision mitigation added.
Pros Great fuel economy for a luxury crossover Back seat has enough room for adults Very quiet cabin at highway speeds
Cons Infotainment interface can be distracting to use and lacks Android Auto Limited cargo capacity
The 2019 Lexus NX remains a boldly styled, comfortable compact luxury crossover with solid standard features.
Pros Comfortable front seats Thrifty hybrid Now-familiar styling F Sport handling and seats CarPlay, finally
Cons Polarizing design Sub-par gas mileage on NX 300 Intrusive road noise Sluggish infotainment
The 2020 Lexus NX ranked #8 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Lexus NX has a score of 7.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 32 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Well-built, spacious cabin Smooth, quiet ride Good fuel economy ratings Excellent predicted reliability rating
Cons Tricky infotainment system Subpar cargo capacity Not as fun to drive as rivals