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 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's #3 ranking is based on its score within the Hybrid and Electric SUVs category. Currently the Toyota Highlander Hybrid has a score of 8.1 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 8 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Punchy yet efficient hybrid powertrain Comfortable ride Upscale interior Many standard tech and safety features
Cons Cramped third row Relatively high starting price
The Highlander is all new for 2020 and is vastly improved compared with the 2019 model it replaces. Next year, a sportier-looking XSE model will join the lineup.
Pros Handsomely styled, fuel-sipping hybrid option, well equipped even at the base level.
Cons Boring driving dynamics, snug third-row passenger space, busy dashboard design
The Highlander is fully redesigned for 2020.Hybrid now uses a four-cylinder instead of a V6.A little less power than before, but much better fuel economy.Part of the fourth Highlander generation introduced for 2020.
Pros Strong fuel economy estimates of 35-36 mpg combined Available all-wheel drive for all models Sensibly priced compared to the non-hybrid Highlander Plenty of standard and available safety features
Cons Third-row seats are small, even for kids Engine noise is noticeably unrefined Interior design already looks dated
