Toyota reintroduced the Venza nameplate, and this time, it’s not the awkward, crossover-ish wagon of the past. The 2022 Toyota Venza emerges as a stylish and sophisticated hybrid SUV, sharing its underpinnings with the popular RAV4 Hybrid. But is it just a RAV4 in a fancy dress, or does the Venza offer something truly unique? This review dives deep into the 2022 Toyota Venza Limited to explore its strengths and weaknesses, helping you decide if it’s the right SUV for your needs.
Design and Interior: A Touch of Lexus?
One of the most immediately striking aspects of the 2022 Venza is its design. Moving away from typical Toyota styling, the Venza boasts smooth lines, a coupe-like roofline, and a general air of sophistication. It genuinely looks more upscale than many of its competitors, and dare we say, even some Lexus SUVs. The exterior design is undoubtedly one of the Venza’s strongest selling points, giving it a premium feel that belies its Toyota badge.
Stepping inside the Venza Limited, the upscale impression continues. Soft-touch materials, quality leather, and flowing lines create a comfortable and inviting cabin. While some may find the infotainment screen a tad dated and the switchgear characteristically Toyota in its simplicity, the overall ambiance is a step above the RAV4 Hybrid. You’ll find a generous list of features in the Limited trim, including heated and cooled seats, a panoramic sunroof, Apple CarPlay, a head-up display, a bird’s eye view camera, and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies. These aren’t groundbreaking features in this segment, but they contribute to a well-equipped and comfortable driving experience.
Hybrid Efficiency: Where the Venza Truly Shines
Fuel economy is a major draw for the Toyota Venza, and it doesn’t disappoint. Achieving an average of 35 MPG in mixed driving conditions is remarkable for a vehicle of this size. This impressive efficiency is a testament to Toyota’s hybrid technology leadership. For those considering electric vehicles but hesitant about charging infrastructure or range anxiety, the Venza presents a compelling and practical alternative. It offers the benefits of hybrid technology without requiring a plug, making it an easy transition for drivers seeking fuel savings.
Driving Experience: Comfort Over Excitement
If you’re looking for an engaging and sporty driving experience, the Venza might not be your top choice. It prioritizes comfort and ease of driving over dynamic handling. However, for the vast majority of SUV buyers who prioritize a smooth and relaxed commute, the Venza delivers perfectly. The ride is comfortable, highway cruising is stable and drama-free, and the steering is light and responsive enough for everyday driving. In essence, it drives exactly as a Toyota SUV should – predictable, comfortable, and reliable.
Minor Drawbacks: Imperfections to Consider
While the Venza excels in many areas, there are a few minor downsides to consider. The placement of the start/stop button is awkward, tucked away in a storage cubby, which feels like an afterthought in the design process. The wireless phone charging pad shares this space, making it a bit cumbersome to access your phone.
Performance-wise, the Venza is adequate but not thrilling. 0-60 MPH acceleration takes a little over eight seconds, which is on par with other vehicles in its class, but slightly slower than the RAV4 Hybrid despite sharing the same powertrain. Interior space is another area where the Venza compromises slightly. While still spacious enough for adults in the back seats, it offers less rear passenger and cargo room compared to the more boxy RAV4 Hybrid. The sloping roofline, while contributing to the Venza’s stylish looks, does impact cargo capacity.
Price is also a factor. The Venza commands a slightly higher price than a comparable RAV4 Hybrid Limited, reflecting its more premium styling and features. Compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V Touring Hybrid, the Venza is notably more expensive. While the Venza offers a nicer interior and potentially better fuel economy, the price difference is significant.
Finally, like other Toyota models, the Venza’s digital instrument cluster can feel a bit cluttered with excessive information. The fuel gauge and range estimations can also be inaccurate, underestimating the vehicle’s actual range. The radar cruise control system can also be overly sensitive, leading to abrupt braking and maintaining a slightly slower speed than set.
Is the Venza Toyota’s Hidden Gem?
Despite these minor drawbacks, the 2022 Toyota Venza is a compelling package. It stands out with its attractive styling, upscale interior, and exceptional fuel economy. For buyers who prioritize these qualities and don’t require maximum cargo space or thrilling performance, the Venza is an excellent choice. In many ways, it feels like a more refined and sophisticated alternative to the RAV4 Hybrid. If you’re considering a hybrid SUV that blends style and efficiency, the Toyota Venza deserves a serious look. It might just be Toyota’s best-kept secret in the current lineup.
2022 Toyota Venza Limited – Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stylish and upscale exterior and interior design
- Outstanding fuel economy
- Comfortable and well-equipped
- Smooth and easy to drive
Cons:
- Less cargo and rear passenger space than RAV4 Hybrid
- Higher price point compared to RAV4 and some competitors
- Driving experience prioritizes comfort over excitement
- Minor ergonomic quirks (start button placement)
Verdict: The 2022 Toyota Venza is a stylish and fuel-efficient hybrid SUV that offers a touch of luxury and refinement. It’s an excellent option for those who prioritize design, fuel economy, and comfort over outright practicality and sporty driving dynamics.
