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 Land Rover Discovery Sport comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 9-speed automatic.Revised exterior styling, a new base trim and an optional mild hybrid engine.Improved interior materials and additional tech features.
Pros Above-average off-road and all-weather capabilities Available third-row seating Plenty of passenger and cargo space Quiet and smooth ride
Cons Seats may be too big for smaller drivers The more powerful engine upgrade is only offered on the top trim
The 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport is a super-competent seven-seater in a hotly contested luxury medium-SUV segment. It’s technically an update to the model that came out in 2015, one which this author actually bought and owned for some time.
Pros Seven seats, super versatile and practical, Range Rover-like interior, great packaging, much better looking than before
Cons Initial lag from drivetrain on take off, still needs some options ticked, no USB C
Land Rover promises luxurious treatment and off-road capability, and the 2020 Discovery Sport brings these qualities to the masses. The downsized Discovery is the most affordable model to wear the Land Rover badge, but it still boasts myriad features as well as a refreshed design for 2020. The updated styling helps align the Sport with bigger and ritzier Rovers such as the Discovery and the Range Rover Velar.Every Discovery Sport is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes between 246 and 286 horsepower depending on the model. However, the more powerful engine utilizes a 48-volt hybrid system that aims to improve fuel economy and aid acceleration.
