The 2021 Toyota Venza Hybrid emerges as a bold contender in the competitive midsize two-row crossover utility vehicle (CUV) segment. Toyota has engineered the Venza Hybrid to break through the monotony often found in this category, delivering a vehicle that is as intuitive to drive as it is sophisticated in design. With its smooth acceleration, predictable handling, and remarkably low levels of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), the Toyota Venza Hybrid is poised to offer a driving experience unlike any other. Anticipated to arrive at dealerships in early September 2020, the 2021 Venza Hybrid was introduced with a starting manufacturer estimated retail price (MSRP) of $32,470 for the LE trim, $36,000 for the XLE, and $39,800 for the Limited trim, excluding a delivery, processing, and handling (DPH) fee of $1,175.
Exclusively equipped with the Toyota Hybrid System II powertrain and advanced Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive, the all-new 2021 Toyota Venza Hybrid is engineered for both comfortable urban cruising and confident highway driving. Furthermore, it’s expected to boast impressive fuel efficiency, with a preliminary manufacturer-estimated combined fuel economy of 39 MPG. This blend of performance and efficiency makes the Toyota Venza Hybrid a compelling option for drivers seeking a versatile and economical vehicle.
Built at the Takaoka Plant and arriving in Toyota dealerships during the summer of 2020, the 2021 Venza Hybrid leverages a version of the Toyota New Global Architecture K platform. This architecture, shared with some of Toyota’s acclaimed sedans and crossovers, allows the Toyota Venza Hybrid to offer the best of both worlds: the refined driving comfort of a sedan and the practical versatility of a CUV. This fusion creates a unique driving experience that sets the Venza Hybrid apart in its class.
Inside, the 2021 Toyota Venza Hybrid comfortably accommodates up to five passengers within a maneuverable package perfect for navigating city streets and open highways alike. The vehicle is packed with technology-focused features, including an optional 12.3-inch touchscreen display paired with a premium nine-speaker JBL sound system, a 7-inch multi-information display (MID), a digital rearview mirror, and a 10-inch color Head-Up Display. Adding to its allure, the Venza Hybrid offers available features such as the Star GazeTM fixed panoramic glass roof—a Toyota first—and heated and ventilated front seats, elevating the driving experience to true grand touring comfort.
Safety is paramount in the design of the Toyota Venza Hybrid. Built on the robust TNGA-K platform, the vehicle is projected to achieve top NHTSA safety ratings. It comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 2.0), a comprehensive suite of active safety systems. This includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Daytime/Low-Light Vehicle and Pedestrian Detection, plus Daytime Bicyclist Detection (PCS)
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA)
- Automatic High Beams (AHB)
- Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)
- Road Sign Assist (RSA)
The Pre-Collision System is designed to automatically apply braking force if the driver fails to react in time to prevent a potential collision. Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) is standard across all Venza Hybrid grades, while the XLE and Limited trims further enhance safety with Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automated Braking (PA w/AB).
Cutting-Edge Audio and Connectivity in the Toyota Venza Hybrid
The 2021 Toyota Venza Hybrid is equipped with intuitive and versatile Toyota audio systems that provide state-of-the-art entertainment and connectivity. The LE and XLE trims come standard with Audio Plus, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen. For an upgraded audio experience, Premium Audio with Dynamic Navigation and JBL is available as an option on the XLE and standard on the Limited. This premium system boasts a stunning 12.3-inch touchscreen display with user-friendly controls that can be optimized for either driver or front passenger operation.
Beyond standard AM/FM radio, the Toyota audio systems in the Venza Hybrid offer a wide array of connectivity features, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility, as well as Bluetooth wireless technology. Apple CarPlay provides seamless access to Siri, while Android Auto users can utilize Google Assistant.
Every Toyota Venza Hybrid grade includes a SiriusXM All Access 3-month trial, Satellite Radio, and HD Radio, along with trial subscriptions to Toyota Remote Services. The available dynamic navigation system features enhanced 2D landmark displays, land guidance, and freeway exit information. All Venza Hybrid models are also equipped with Toyota Safety Connect, offering a one-year trial subscription for added peace of mind.
The standard 6-speaker audio system with a 4-channel amplifier delivers clear and powerful sound for a diverse range of audio content. For audiophiles, the optional JBL Premium Audio System represents a significant upgrade. This system includes 9 speakers, highlighted by a rear subwoofer, and is powered by a 12-channel, 1,200-watt amplifier – the most powerful audio system ever launched in a Toyota vehicle. Specifically designed for the Venza Hybrid, this system features a unique speaker architecture and is finely tuned to the vehicle’s cabin acoustics.
Innovative Visibility Technology: Star Gaze Panoramic Roof and Digital Mirrors
One of the most notable innovations in the Toyota Venza Hybrid is the available Star GazeTM fixed panoramic glass roof, a first for Toyota. This electrochromic glass technology allows occupants to switch the roof from transparent to frosted modes in just one second using a simple ON/OFF button. In frosted mode, the Star GazeTM roof brightens the interior while significantly reducing direct sunlight, creating an even more open, airy, and inviting cabin environment.
Visibility-enhancing technology extends throughout the Toyota Venza Hybrid. The LE grade features a 4.2-inch color MID, while the XLE and Limited grades are upgraded to a 7-inch color MID. Both displays include a Hybrid System Indicator, which provides drivers with real-time feedback on system output and regeneration status to promote eco-conscious driving habits. This display, familiar from other Toyota hybrid models, suggests optimal acceleration levels for efficient driving and even includes a gamified scoring function to encourage economical driving practices.
An available 10-inch color Head-Up Display projects essential driving information directly onto the windshield at eye level. This includes speedometer readings, hybrid system indicators, and TSS 2.0 function alerts, allowing drivers to stay informed without taking their eyes off the road.
The Toyota Venza Hybrid also offers an available digital rearview mirror with HomeLink universal transceiver. This feature enhances rear visibility by providing a wide, unobstructed view from a rear-mounted camera, especially useful when rear passengers or cargo obstruct the traditional rearview mirror view. The digital mirror also effectively reduces glare from headlights, improving nighttime driving safety. The Limited grade further enhances visibility with a standard Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan, offering a panoramic overhead view of the vehicle’s surroundings for enhanced maneuverability in tight spaces.
Standard on all models is a backup camera with projected path and dynamic gridlines. An available rear camera cleaning system ensures a clear view even in inclement weather by spraying washer fluid to remove water, mud, and road grime from the camera lens. A standard hands-free power liftgate adds convenience, and it can be programmed to lock automatically upon closing. For enhanced ease of access, XLE and Limited grades include a Smart Key System that operates on all five doors.
Toyota: A Leader in Hybrid Technology
Toyota’s pioneering role in hybrid technology began over two decades ago with the introduction of the Prius, making “hybrid” synonymous with fuel efficiency. The Toyota Venza Hybrid expands Toyota’s hybrid lineup to ten models for 2021 (eleven when including the Mirai fuel cell vehicle), solidifying Toyota’s position as the brand with the most diverse range of electrified vehicles.
The new-generation Toyota Hybrid System in the Venza Hybrid combines a highly efficient 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine with three electric motors within a compact system. The gasoline engine incorporates Variable Valve Timing-intelligent system by Electric motor (VVT-iE) on the intake camshaft and VVT-i on the exhaust camshaft. Additional efficiency-enhancing technologies include a variable cooling system (electric water pump, electric thermostat) and a fully variable oil pump.
This sophisticated hybrid system delivers a combined 219 total system horsepower with a projected preliminary manufacturer-estimated 39 combined MPG. Characteristic of Toyota hybrids, the Venza Hybrid offers responsive acceleration and enhanced low-speed torque delivery thanks to the electric motor assist. The hybrid system intelligently manages the balance between electric motor assistance and gasoline engine RPM to optimize performance and efficiency while maintaining quiet operation. The Toyota Venza Hybrid utilizes a newly developed lithium-ion battery, which improves both performance and packaging efficiency by reducing size and weight.
Drivers can customize the Venza Hybrid’s driving dynamics with selectable NORMAL, ECO, and SPORT driving modes. SPORT mode sharpens throttle response for a more engaging driving experience, while ECO mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by adjusting throttle and environmental controls. NORMAL mode is calibrated for balanced everyday driving. Additionally, EV mode enables electric-only driving at low speeds for short distances, further maximizing fuel savings in appropriate conditions.
The sequential shifting feature allows drivers to manually “downshift” to increase regenerative braking, providing greater control, particularly when driving in hilly terrain. Furthermore, the hybrid system enhances ride comfort by precisely managing drive torque to minimize pitching motions during acceleration and deceleration.
Predictive Efficiency and Smooth Driving Dynamics
The Toyota Venza Hybrid incorporates Predictive Efficient Drive (PED), which leverages the navigation system to learn driving habits and memorize road and traffic conditions. This intelligent system optimizes hybrid battery charging by anticipating when and where the vehicle is likely to slow down or stop. When PED is activated, the system analyzes frequently traveled routes and provides accelerator pedal release timing guidance to minimize energy consumption.
PED can proactively manage battery charging and discharging in anticipation of upcoming hills or traffic congestion. For example, when approaching a downhill section, the system is designed to increase engine braking to more effectively charge the hybrid battery after the accelerator pedal is released.
The TNGA-K platform underpinning the Toyota Venza Hybrid is constructed with extensive high-strength steel, providing a robust foundation for both handling agility and ride comfort. The suspension system, featuring front struts and a rear multi-link configuration, is tuned to promote agile handling while delivering a smooth and quiet ride.
Handling is further enhanced by an electronically controlled brake system with Active Cornering Assist (ACA). ACA subtly engages the stability control system to mitigate understeer during cornering, providing enhanced agility without intrusive system intervention.
The hybrid system includes a differential torque pre-load function, which improves acceleration and deceleration control during starts and cornering, especially on slippery surfaces. This feature also contributes to enhanced steering performance at higher speeds and improved straight-line stability and control on uneven roads.
The Toyota Venza Hybrid LE trim is equipped with 18-inch multi-spoke two-tone alloy wheels, while the XLE and Limited trims upgrade to 19-inch multi-spoke super chrome finished alloy wheels, adding to the vehicle’s sophisticated aesthetic.
Intelligent All-Wheel Drive System
The 2021 Toyota Venza Hybrid comes standard with Toyota’s Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive, a highly efficient system designed to maximize the benefits of the hybrid powertrain. Unlike traditional mechanical AWD systems, the Electronic On-Demand AWD system in the Venza Hybrid utilizes a separate rear-mounted electric motor to power the rear wheels only when needed. This eliminates the need for a heavier and less efficient transfer case and driveshaft.
This system operates seamlessly and transparently, proactively distributing up to 80 percent of driving force to the rear wheels during initial acceleration to minimize front wheel slip. It also enhances cornering agility by reducing understeer.
Torque distribution is dynamically adjusted based on driving conditions, ranging from 100:0 during constant-speed cruising to 20:80 on slippery surfaces. Real-time torque distribution can be displayed on the Multi-information Display and audio system screen, providing drivers with a visual representation of the AWD system’s operation.
Comfortable and Power-Adjustable Seating
The Toyota Venza Hybrid prioritizes passenger comfort with standard power-adjustable seats, including an 8-way power driver’s seat on all grades and a 4-way power passenger seat on the Limited trim. The power driver’s seat includes an auto slide-away function, automatically moving the seat to its rearmost position when the driver enters or exits the vehicle to maximize ingress and egress space. Upon starting the Venza Hybrid, the seat returns to the driver’s previously set position. The seats are not only comfortable but also stylish, with unique seat bolster stitching standard on the Limited grade.
Available heated front seats offer three levels of adjustable warmth, while ventilated front seats, standard on the Limited trim, draw cool air from the air conditioning system to enhance comfort in warmer conditions.
The Venza Hybrid utilizes S-FLOW cooling technology, initially developed for Lexus vehicles. This intelligent system directs air conditioning airflow only to occupied seats, enhancing passenger comfort while simultaneously reducing energy consumption. On Limited and XLE trims equipped with the optional 12.3-inch display, the climate control system is operated via Intelligent Touch capacitive controls, adding a touch of modern sophistication to the interior.
A Quiet and Refined Cabin Experience
Noise reduction is a key focus in the Toyota Venza Hybrid, ensuring a premium and serene cabin environment. Rather than simply targeting decibel reduction, Toyota engineers focused on creating a calm and peaceful atmosphere conducive to conversation and high-fidelity music enjoyment.
The high-strength TNGA-K platform serves as the first line of defense against noise intrusion, effectively minimizing vibration transmitted through the steering, floor, and vehicle structure. The suspension system is tuned to absorb road surface imperfections, while strategically placed insulation reduces tire noise. An acoustic glass windshield further minimizes wind noise.
Extensive sound-blocking and sound-absorbing insulation and body sealing materials are incorporated throughout the vehicle structure, including under the carpeting and above the headliner. The placement and type of these materials are optimized to effectively reduce noise frequencies that typically interfere with conversation.
For example, the floor silencer pad is constructed as a single, large piece rather than multiple segments, achieving approximately 92 percent surface coverage. Gaps and holes between body panels are filled with sound-damping material to further minimize road noise intrusion.
Under the hood, sound-absorbing insulation around the engine compartment reduces intake noise, aided by two specially designed resonance chambers that minimize air intake noise in the 530Hz and 650Hz ranges.
Spacious and Practical Interior Design
The Toyota Venza Hybrid is designed to be both space-efficient and practical. Despite its manageable exterior dimensions, the interior offers generous passenger and cargo space. Cupholders are sized to accommodate large beverage containers, and the center stack tray is designed to hold even the largest smartphone models. Door bottle holders can accommodate 24-oz bottles, providing ample storage for personal items.
The Venza Hybrid provides 28.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row. The compact lithium-ion battery pack is located beneath the rear seats, ensuring it does not compromise either cargo or passenger space. A standard tonneau cover is included to conceal cargo, and it can be conveniently stored in the under-deck storage compartment when not in use.
Toyota Venza Hybrid Pricing and Trims
The 2021 Toyota Venza Hybrid was released to dealerships in early September 2020 with the following starting MSRPs by trim level (excluding the $1,175 delivery, processing, and handling fee; fees may vary in Southeast Toyota and Gulf States Toyota regions):
Individual options were also available for each grade, allowing buyers to customize their Toyota Venza Hybrid to their specific preferences.
Comprehensive Safety Features and Warranty
The 2021 Toyota Venza Hybrid is equipped with eight airbags, including side curtain airbags, and Toyota’s Star Safety System, which encompasses Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Smart Stop Technology (SST).
Toyota’s comprehensive warranty coverage includes a 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty for all components excluding normal wear and maintenance items. Powertrain components are covered for 60 months/60,000 miles, and corrosion perforation is covered for 60 months with no mileage limitation. Hybrid-related components are warranted for 8 years/100,000 miles, and the HV battery is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes first, transferable across ownership.
The 2021 Toyota Venza Hybrid also includes ToyotaCare, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, and 2 years of Roadside Assistance, regardless of mileage.
For more detailed information and resources on the 2021 Toyota Venza Hybrid, you can visit the Toyota pressroom. The Toyota Venza Hybrid represents a significant step forward in the midsize crossover segment, offering a compelling blend of style, efficiency, technology, and safety for today’s drivers.
