The Toyota Venza made a comeback in 2021, resurrecting a nameplate that was previously associated with a less-than-exciting crossover. However, the 2022 Toyota Venza is a completely different beast. Sharing its underpinnings with the popular RAV4 Hybrid, the new Venza elevates itself with a focus on sophisticated styling, a surprisingly upscale interior, and of course, Toyota’s renowned hybrid fuel efficiency. Is the 2022 Toyota Venza the right SUV for you? Let’s dive into a detailed review.
What Makes the 2022 Toyota Venza Stand Out?
The 2022 Venza immediately grabs attention with its striking exterior design. Unlike some of Toyota’s more polarizing designs, the Venza boasts smooth, elegant lines and a refined silhouette that leans towards the premium side. Many reviewers even draw comparisons to Lexus SUVs, noting that the Venza, in some respects, is arguably more aesthetically pleasing than its luxury brand counterparts. This upscale visual appeal extends to the interior, where soft-touch materials, quality leather in higher trims, and a well-thought-out layout create a comfortable and inviting space. While some might find the infotainment screen a touch dated and the switchgear typical Toyota fare, the overall cabin ambiance is a step above the RAV4 Hybrid, offering a more luxurious feel for both driver and passengers.
Beyond aesthetics, the 2022 Toyota Venza is packed with desirable features, especially in the Limited trim. Expect amenities like heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof that enhances the airy cabin feel, seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a helpful bird’s eye view camera system for maneuvering in tight spots. A head-up display is also available, projecting essential driving information directly onto the windshield. Of course, Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ is standard, providing a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies. While these features are becoming increasingly common in the competitive SUV segment, they contribute to the Venza’s overall value proposition. The as-tested price for the top-of-the-line Venza Limited reaches around $44,655, reflecting its premium positioning.
One of the most compelling aspects of the 2022 Toyota Venza is its exceptional fuel economy. The hybrid powertrain delivers impressive MPG figures, averaging around 35 MPG in combined driving conditions. This fuel efficiency is remarkable for a vehicle of this size and type, highlighting the advancements Toyota has made in hybrid technology. For drivers seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and fuel costs without the commitment of a fully electric vehicle, the Venza presents an appealing and practical solution. It offers the benefits of hybrid technology without the range anxiety or charging infrastructure concerns associated with EVs.
Areas Where the 2022 Toyota Venza Could Improve
While the 2022 Toyota Venza excels in many areas, it’s not without its shortcomings. From a driving enthusiast’s perspective, the Venza offers a rather uninspired driving experience. Performance is adequate for daily driving, with a 0-60 MPH time in the low eight-second range, but it’s not going to thrill anyone seeking dynamic handling or spirited acceleration. In fact, the RAV4 Hybrid, with the same powertrain, is slightly quicker. However, it’s important to remember that Toyota designed the Venza for comfort and ease of driving, not for sporty performance. For the average driver, the Venza’s predictable and comfortable driving dynamics will likely be perfectly acceptable, even desirable. The steering is light and responsive, and the vehicle tracks straight and true on the highway, making it a relaxed and undemanding companion for everyday commutes and longer road trips.
Inside the cabin, some ergonomic quirks exist. The placement of the engine start/stop button feels like an afterthought, tucked away in a storage cubby in a less-than-ideal location. The wireless phone charging pad shares this same somewhat awkward space, making it a bit fiddly to access your phone. In terms of practicality, the 2022 Venza offers less rear passenger and cargo space compared to the RAV4 Hybrid. While the rear seats are still comfortable for adults, they don’t offer the same generous roominess as the RAV4. The Venza’s sloping roofline, while contributing to its stylish profile, does compromise cargo volume in the rear. It’s certainly not a small vehicle, but if maximizing cargo capacity is a top priority, the RAV4 Hybrid might be a better choice.
Another consideration is price. The Venza commands a slightly higher price tag than a comparably equipped RAV4 Hybrid Limited, reflecting its more upscale aspirations. Compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V Touring Hybrid, the Venza can also appear pricier. While the CR-V Hybrid might not offer the same level of interior refinement or fuel economy, the significant price difference could sway budget-conscious buyers.
Some minor criticisms extend to typical Toyota traits, such as a somewhat cluttered digital instrument cluster with an abundance of information that may not be necessary for all drivers. The fuel gauge and range estimation have also been noted as being somewhat inaccurate, underestimating the vehicle’s actual range. Lastly, Toyota’s radar cruise control system can be overly cautious, sometimes braking more abruptly than necessary and maintaining a speed slightly below the set speed. While these are minor issues, they are worth noting for potential buyers.
Final Verdict: Is the 2022 Toyota Venza the Right Choice?
Despite these minor drawbacks, the 2022 Toyota Venza emerges as a highly compelling option in the midsize hybrid SUV segment. It successfully blends eye-catching design, a comfortable and well-appointed interior, and exceptional fuel efficiency, all hallmarks of the Toyota brand. For buyers prioritizing style, comfort, and hybrid economy over outright performance or maximum cargo space, the Venza is an excellent choice. It arguably represents one of Toyota’s strongest current offerings, delivering a refined and practical driving experience that aligns perfectly with the needs of many modern SUV buyers. Unless maximizing interior space is paramount, the 2022 Toyota Venza stands out as a more desirable and sophisticated alternative to the RAV4 Hybrid, and a strong contender against other hybrid SUVs in its class.
2022 Toyota Venza Limited
Pros:
- Stylish and upscale exterior and interior design
- Outstanding fuel economy thanks to its hybrid powertrain
- Comfortable and feature-rich cabin
Cons:
- Less cargo and rear passenger space compared to RAV4 Hybrid
- Driving dynamics are not engaging for driving enthusiasts
Verdict: The 2022 Toyota Venza is a stylish and efficient hybrid SUV that excels in comfort and fuel economy, making it a top pick for those prioritizing these qualities.
