2021 Toyota Venza revealed as a hybrid-only crossover

KUALA LUMPUR: Toyota’s midsize two-row CUV, Venza is back, but this time, it is hybrid only. The crossover model, bigger than RAV4 but smaller than 4Runner was available from 2008 to 2017 and had not seen any replacement since 2017. But now Toyota brings it back in a new electrified version.

Underneath the new bodywork, the new Venza adopted the powertrain from RAV4 Hybrid, comprising a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder engine mated to a pair of electric motors at the front and rear. The powertrain is capable of generating a combined output of 222 PS. In terms of fuel economy, the automaker claims 17 kmpl in mixed city and highway driving conditions. The Venza Hybrid is also available with an all-wheel-drive option.

Along with Eco, Sport, and Normal driving modes, the refreshed Venza can also be driven as a pure EV for short distances. However, the automaker did not specify exactly how far it can go on battery power alone. 

The revived Venza looks familiar as it is the international version of Toyota Harrier, whose latest iteration has been introduced earlier this year. On the exterior, the car features long, sleek headlights, large lower air intakes, and soft gentle curves throughout the front. 

The crossover has adopted some elements from Lexus RX, including a sleek and rakish roofline, which adds a bit of flair to the overall appearance. At the rear, there are sharp lines and slim high-mounted taillights, which are impressive.

The new Toyota Venza will be available in three variants - LE, XLE, and Limited. All the trims will come with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa integration, and eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat as standard. The LE variant features 4.2-inch colored multi-information-display in the instrument cluster, an 8.0-inch infotainment display, and a six-speaker audio system. 

The XLE has a 7.0-inch MID, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, a 10.0-inch head-up display, and nine-speaker JBL audio system. While the top-spec Limited trim comes with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and JBL hi-fi as standard. The other luxury features include optional electrochromic glass roof and acoustic glass windshield for minimizing wind noise.

In terms of safety, the new Venza is loaded with eight airbags, and Toyota’s Star Safety System, including enhanced vehicle stability control, ABS with EBD, traction control, brake assist, and smart stop technology. It also has Toyota's Safety Sense 2.0, which comprises pre-collision warning, full-speed dynamic cruise control, pedestrian safety warning, lane departure warning, lane tracing assist, road sign assist, and automatic high beams.

Though there are no signs of coming it here in Malaysia, the US debut will take place by late summer. 

Also read: 2021 Toyota Sienna minivan launched with a hybrid powertrain