The Toyota Venza has consistently impressed in the midsize CUV segment, and the 2023 Toyota Venza is set to elevate this reputation even further. Building on the success of previous models, the 2023 Toyota Venza introduces the stylish Nightshade Edition, adding a new layer of sophistication to its already compelling package. This tech-forward, premium crossover utility vehicle (CUV) maintains its commitment to fuel efficiency with a standard hybrid powertrain, projecting an impressive manufacturer-estimated 39 combined MPG rating. Coupled with standard Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive and a suite of advanced technology and safety features, the 2023 Toyota Venza stands out as a smart and stylish choice for discerning drivers.
Unveiling the 2023 Toyota Venza Nightshade Edition: A Bold New Look
The most striking addition to the 2023 Toyota Venza lineup is undoubtedly the Nightshade Edition. This special edition, based on the well-equipped XLE trim level, amplifies the Venza’s inherent style with a dramatic blackout treatment. Available in Celestial Black, Wind Chill Pearl, and Ruby Flare Red exterior colors, the Nightshade Edition makes a powerful visual statement.
The designers have meticulously crafted the Nightshade Edition with black accents throughout. The acrylic front grille trim, outer mirror caps, door handles, rocker panels, and optional roof rails are all rendered in sleek black. Smoked chrome moldings on the lower front and rear bumpers further enhance the dark and sophisticated aesthetic. Even the shark fin antenna is finished in black, completing the cohesive design.
To complement the exterior, the 2023 Toyota Venza Nightshade Edition rides on distinctive 19-inch gloss-black multi-spoke aluminum alloy wheels and features blacked-out rear badges. Standard LED fog lamps, also included on the XLE trim, ensure enhanced visibility, while the available Star Gaze™ Panoramic Roof can be paired with the Nightshade Edition, adding an extra touch of premium appeal.
The Foundation of Excellence: TNGA-K Platform and Performance
Underpinning the 2023 Toyota Venza is the Toyota New Global Architecture K (TNGA-K) platform. This robust platform, shared with many Toyota sedans and crossovers, including luxury models, provides the Venza with a solid foundation for both comfort and performance. The TNGA-K platform allows the 2023 Toyota Venza to deliver a smooth, sedan-like driving experience while retaining the versatility expected of a modern CUV.
Inside, the 2023 Toyota Venza offers ample space for five passengers within a maneuverable midsize package. Technologically advanced features abound, including an available 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia display paired with a premium nine-speaker JBL audio system. Drivers can also benefit from an available 12.3” full digital instrument cluster, a digital rear-view mirror, and a convenient 10-inch color Head-Up Display.
One of the Venza’s standout features, available on the Nightshade and Limited trims, is the Star Gaze™ fixed panoramic glass roof. This innovative roof utilizes electrochromic glass technology, allowing occupants to switch between transparent and frosted modes instantly with the touch of a button. In frosted mode, the Star Gaze™ roof brightens the cabin while reducing direct sunlight, creating an airy and inviting atmosphere.
Enhanced Safety with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+
The 2023 Toyota Venza prioritizes safety, equipped standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+), Toyota’s comprehensive suite of active safety systems. This advanced suite includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, which has been enhanced to detect oncoming vehicles or pedestrians at intersections when turning. The system is designed to alert the driver and provide automatic braking in certain situations to help mitigate or avoid collisions with vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists. Emergency steering assist is also included, designed to stabilize evasive steering maneuvers and prevent lane departure when avoiding pedestrians.
TSS 2.5+ in the 2023 Toyota Venza also features Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). Lane Departure Alert is designed to provide audible warnings if the vehicle drifts out of its lane without signaling. When DRCC is active, Lane Tracing Assist works to gently steer the vehicle to remain centered in its lane, using lane markers or a preceding vehicle as guidance.
Automatic High Beams are designed to automatically switch between high and low beams based on detected preceding or oncoming vehicles. Road Sign Assist uses a forward-facing camera to recognize and display important road sign information on the Multi-information Display (MID).
The 2023 Toyota Venza also includes Toyota’s Rear Seat Reminder as standard. This system reminds drivers to check the rear seats upon exiting the vehicle, helping to prevent accidentally leaving children or pets behind.
Beyond TSS 2.5+, standard safety features include Blind Spot Monitor, designed to alert drivers to vehicles in adjacent lanes, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which warns of approaching vehicles from either side when reversing. Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking provides warnings and can apply braking force when a collision with a stationary object or approaching vehicle is likely during parking maneuvers.
Hybrid Efficiency as Standard: Powertrain and MPG
A key differentiator of the 2023 Toyota Venza is its standard hybrid powertrain. The Toyota Hybrid System II combines a highly efficient 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine with three electric motors and a compact lithium-ion battery. This system delivers a combined 219 total system horsepower, providing responsive and efficient performance.
The hybrid system optimizes the blend of electric motor assistance and gasoline engine operation to maximize fuel efficiency and provide smooth acceleration. The electric motors enhance low-speed torque, resulting in a responsive feel from a standstill. Drivers can further tailor the driving experience with selectable NORMAL, ECO, and SPORT driving modes. ECO mode prioritizes fuel efficiency, while SPORT mode sharpens throttle response for a more engaging drive. EV mode allows for short-distance, electric-only driving at low speeds.
Regenerative braking captures energy during deceleration, sending it back to the hybrid battery. A sequential shifting feature allows drivers to increase regenerative braking when driving downhill, enhancing control and energy recapture.
Predictive Efficiency and All-Wheel Drive Confidence
The 2023 Toyota Venza incorporates Predictive Efficient Drive (PED) technology, which uses the navigation system to analyze driving patterns and road conditions to optimize hybrid battery charging. When PED is activated, the system learns frequently traveled routes and predicts likely deceleration or stopping points. By providing accelerator pedal release guidance, PED can help drivers reduce energy consumption.
PED also optimizes battery charging and discharging in anticipation of hills or traffic congestion. For example, when approaching a downhill section, the system can increase engine braking to more efficiently charge the hybrid battery after the accelerator is released.
Standard Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive further enhances the 2023 Toyota Venza’s capabilities. This system utilizes a separate rear-mounted electric motor to power the rear wheels when needed. It seamlessly distributes torque, up to 80% to the rear wheels, to enhance traction during starts and improve cornering agility by reducing understeer. Torque distribution is dynamically adjusted based on driving conditions, ensuring optimal grip and control.
Premium Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside the 2023 Toyota Venza, a serene and refined cabin environment awaits. Toyota engineers have focused on minimizing noise intrusion, creating a quiet space for conversation and enjoying the premium audio systems. The TNGA-K platform, along with strategic sound insulation and acoustic glass, effectively reduces road and wind noise.
The 2023 Toyota Venza offers luxurious seating with a standard 8-way power driver’s seat on all trims, and an added 8-way power passenger seat on the Limited trim. Heated front seats with three levels of adjustment are available, and ventilated front seats are standard on the Limited trim. The Venza also employs S-FLOW air conditioning, directing cooling air only to occupied seats for enhanced comfort and efficiency.
The 2023 Toyota Venza provides practical space with 28.8 cu. ft. of cargo room behind the second row and 55.1 cu. ft. with the rear seats folded. Thoughtful storage solutions, including ample cupholders and door bottle holders, enhance everyday convenience.
Cutting-Edge Toyota Audio Multimedia and Connectivity
The 2023 Toyota Venza features Toyota’s latest Audio Multimedia system, offering advanced connectivity and entertainment features. An 8-inch touchscreen is standard on the LE trim, while XLE and Limited trims come standard with a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen. All 2023 Toyota Venza models receive upgraded USB ports (one Type-A and two Type-C) and a fourth-generation Qi wireless charger.
The Toyota Audio Multimedia system offers Over-the-Air (OTA) updates and supports wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. Available Connected Services, including Drive Connect, provide access to Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist. Intelligent Assistant enables voice commands for navigation, audio adjustments, and more. Cloud Navigation provides real-time map and traffic information, while Destination Assist offers 24/7 live agent support. Wi-Fi Connect subscription is also available, turning the Venza into a Wi-Fi hotspot. Integrated Streaming allows linking Apple Music® and Amazon Music subscriptions for in-vehicle control.
Optional on XLE and standard on Limited is a premium JBL Audio System with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, 9 speakers including a subwoofer, and a 1200-watt amplifier, delivering exceptional sound quality.
The LE and XLE trims feature a 7-inch color Multi-Information Display, while the Limited trim upgrades to a 12.3” full digital instrument cluster with customizable display modes.
Enhanced Visibility and Convenience Features
The 2023 Toyota Venza Limited trim now includes a standard 10-inch color Head-Up Display, projecting key information onto the windshield. A digital rearview mirror with HomeLink universal transceiver is also available, providing a wide, unobstructed rear view. The Limited trim also features a Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan and rain-sensing wipers for added convenience and safety.
Standard features include a backup camera with projected-path and dynamic gridlines. An available rear camera cleaning system ensures clear visibility in all conditions. A hands-free power liftgate is standard, and XLE and Limited trims include a Smart Key System on all five doors.
2023 Toyota Venza: Trim Levels and Value
The 2023 Toyota Venza is available in LE, XLE, Nightshade Edition, and Limited trims, offering a range of features and styles to suit different preferences. Regardless of the trim chosen, the 2023 Toyota Venza delivers a compelling combination of hybrid efficiency, premium features, advanced technology, and Toyota’s renowned reliability. The 2023 Toyota Venza remains a top contender in the midsize hybrid CUV segment, offering exceptional value and a sophisticated driving experience.
The 2023 Toyota Venza is backed by Toyota’s comprehensive warranty, including a 36-month/36,000-mile basic warranty, a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and extended coverage for hybrid components. ToyotaCare, a complimentary maintenance plan, and roadside assistance are also included for added peace of mind.
Disclaimer: Pricing and specifications may vary. Please consult your local Toyota dealer for the most up-to-date information.
