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
Fiat adds the 500X Sport to the lineup. Slotting in above the Trekking, the Sport model has a new front end with LED headlamps and a Sport badge, body-color side moldings, and a restyled rear end with twin chrome exhaust tips. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard, with 19s optional. Inside, the 2020 Fiat 500X Sport features seats with added bolstering, along with simulated-suede inserts and red stitching on both the seats and the restyled, flat-bottomed steering wheel, and aluminum trim on the pedals.
Pros Punchy turbo engine, useful driver-assistance aids, distinctive design.
Cons Priced high for a subcompact SUV, small cargo capacity, cramped passenger quarters.
The 2020 Fiat 500X is a stylish alternative to mainstream models but can be cramped inside.
Pros Quirky styling Standard all-wheel-drive Comfortable ride
Cons No cheaper and more efficient FWD model Competitors offer better value Active safety tech only optional
The 2020 FIAT 500X is unranked in Subcompact SUVs due to missing safety data. Currently, the FIAT 500X's overall score is not available, though its Critics' Rating, Performance score, and Interior score are based on our evaluation of 29 pieces of research and data.
Pros Ritzy cabin
Cons Firm seats Cramped rear quarters Tiny cargo hold
