The 2024 Toyota Venza provides the perfect marriage between a ritzier RAV4 Hybrid combined with the less expensive Lexus NX 350h. As they are all based on the same platform and have the same hybrid engine (the only option for the Venza).
The differences come down to design, interior quality, feature content, utility, and price. The Venza seemingly sits in the middle but leans towards the fancier, Lexus direction. This raises the question of why Toyota decided to divide its small SUV market even further. However, little effort was required in this instance as the Venza is a rebadged version of the Japanese-market Toyota Harrier.
Previously, this name was effectively attached to the Lexus RX in Japan, which explains the luxurious interior of the Venza compared to the utilitarian RAV4. Toyota confidently positions the Venza against pricier midsize SUVs like the Honda Passport and Chevrolet Blazer. This despite its dimensions being smaller than the compact RAV4, most notably with the cargo area. The Venza’s relative lack of power, despite its exceptional fuel economy, positions it in the midsize category. There is still merit to considering the Venza, as its added luxury, and style could possibly outweigh the reduced utility and elevated price compared to the RAV4. Nevertheless, for most, it may be wiser to go with the RAV4.
A Sharp Modern Styled Interior:
Similar to its exterior styling, the Venza’s interior design is a key area where it differentiates itself from the RAV4. It features a sharp, modern, and highly styled interior that enters Lexus territory in its highest trim. Distinctive color schemes, contrast dash/seat stitching, and prominent technology help bring the design together. However, the XLE and Limited models are hamstrung versus the LE. Both the mid-grade and top trims have touch-capacitive controls for the audio and climate systems, which are difficult to identify and operate while driving.
The base LE uses physical buttons, which are much easier to use even if they don’t look as fancy. The big dash-top screen is the interior’s centerpiece. The operating system is the newest that Toyota has to offer, featuring bright, minimalist graphics and natural speech recognition. It’s responsive and runs quickly. However, there are some annoyances we discovered, particularly with the radio operation, that can make the new system less user-friendly than what you’d find in most rival systems.
How Size Matters:
In terms of size, Toyota considers the Venza to be a midsize crossover competitor. However, in reality, it’s on the smaller side of this class compared to cars like the Honda Passport, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Chevrolet Blazer. The Venza can be thought of more as a glorified, style-first RAV4 than a truly utilitarian family crossover. This style-over-utility choice results in the Venza having significantly less cargo space than the RAV4 despite being longer overall. Additionally, the Venza doesn’t have roof rails, which isn’t as convenient as what you’d find on various RAV4 trim levels. The Venza maintains an identical rear legroom to the RAV4, but the optional Star Gaze fixed glass roof can cut into rear headroom significantly.
One Size Fits All:
The 2024 Toyota Venza is only available as a hybrid, and it’s almost a direct lift from the RAV4 Hybrid, with minor differences that include its battery pack chemistry and final tuning. The total system output is 219 combined horsepower, which is weak for something advertised as a midsize crossover. However, the fuel economy is almost identical to the RAV4, meaning the Venza returns exceptional fuel economy for a vehicle of its size that absolutely demolishes its midsize, non-hybrid competition.
The Venza may look like a sporty crossover, but it really isn’t. At no point does the Venza ever encourage the driver to push it through a winding road. The rear electric motor does a good job of keeping the front wheels from being overwhelmed. We should note this is no performance-oriented all-wheel-drive system. If you’re looking for a more engaging driving experience in Toyota’s lineup, the RAV4 Hybrid XSE and new RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid do a much better job.
In conclusion:
Pros: More luxurious than the RAV4 Hybrid, excellent fuel economy for an SUV, Lexus-like looks and quality.
Cons: Less spacious and versatile than the RAV4 Hybrid, wonky touch controls, a bit slow.
The 2024 Toyota Venza may appeal to those looking for a more luxurious, high-quality option than the RAV4 Hybrid. Especially as it’s at a relatively affordable price compared to the Lexus NX 350h. However, buyers should carefully consider the additional features the Venza offers to determine if it’s truly worth the extra cost.
The Venza is not listed on Toyota Cambodia’s website. However, you can reach out to them for more information should this be your model of choice.
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