The Toyota Venza made a comeback in 2021, resurrecting a nameplate from Toyota’s past, but this time with a completely different approach. No longer a quirky, wagon-like crossover, the 2022 Toyota Venza has transformed into a sleek, sophisticated, and exclusively hybrid SUV. Positioned between the RAV4 and Highlander, the Venza aims to offer a more premium experience with a focus on fuel efficiency and distinctive styling. But does the 2022 Venza live up to the hype, and is it the right SUV for you? Let’s dive into a detailed review.
Image: Front exterior view of the stylish 2022 Toyota Venza hybrid SUV, showcasing its modern design.
What Makes the 2022 Venza Stand Out?
The 2022 Venza distinguishes itself in a crowded SUV market through a combination of striking design, a refined interior, and impressive hybrid fuel economy. It’s not trying to be the most rugged or the most spacious SUV, but rather aims for a sweet spot of style, comfort, and efficiency.
Eye-Catching Exterior Design
Unlike some of Toyota’s more polarizing designs, the 2022 Venza boasts a genuinely attractive exterior. Its smooth lines, sloping roofline, and elegant front and rear fascias give it a sophisticated and almost Lexus-like appearance. In fact, many reviewers note that the Venza looks more upscale than some of Lexus’s own SUVs. The design prioritizes aesthetics, giving the 2022 Toyota Venza a premium feel that sets it apart from more utilitarian competitors.
Image: Rear quarter view of the 2022 Toyota Venza, highlighting its sleek rear design and taillights.
Refined and Comfortable Interior
Stepping inside the 2022 Venza, you’ll find a cabin that’s a step above the RAV4 in terms of materials and design. Soft-touch surfaces, available leather upholstery, and a generally well-laid-out dashboard create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. While some switchgear might feel typically Toyota-durable rather than overtly luxurious, the overall impression is one of quality and thoughtful design. The seats are comfortable for long drives, and available features like heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display elevate the experience further in higher trims like the Limited model reviewed here.
Image: Interior shot of the 2022 Toyota Venza showcasing the dashboard, infotainment screen, and comfortable seating.
Standard tech features are plentiful, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ driver-assistance features. The infotainment screen, while functional, might appear slightly dated compared to some competitors, but it’s user-friendly and responsive.
Unbeatable Hybrid Fuel Efficiency
One of the strongest selling points of the 2022 Toyota Venza is its exceptional fuel economy. As a hybrid-only model, the Venza delivers impressive MPG figures for an SUV of its size. Real-world testing shows averages around 35 MPG combined, which is outstanding and significantly better than many non-hybrid SUVs and even some smaller crossovers. For drivers prioritizing fuel savings and reduced emissions without the need for plugging in, the Venza presents a compelling option. This fuel efficiency is a testament to Toyota’s long-standing expertise in hybrid technology.
Driving Experience: Comfort Over Thrills
The 2022 Toyota Venza prioritizes a comfortable and relaxed driving experience over sporty handling. The ride is smooth and composed, effectively absorbing road imperfections. Steering is light and accurate, making it easy to maneuver in city driving and parking lots. The Venza tracks straight and true on the highway, contributing to a stress-free driving experience, perfectly aligning with the needs of typical SUV buyers who prioritize ease of driving over driving excitement.
However, if you’re seeking an engaging or dynamic driving experience, the Venza is not the SUV for you. Acceleration is adequate for daily driving, but not particularly brisk. Zero to 60 mph times are in the low eight-second range, which is sufficient but not thrilling. The focus here is clearly on efficiency and comfort, not performance.
Minor Drawbacks to Consider
While the 2022 Venza excels in many areas, there are a few minor drawbacks to consider before making a purchase decision.
Interior Quirks and Space Considerations
Some minor interior ergonomic issues are present. The placement of the engine start/stop button is somewhat awkward, tucked away in a storage cubby, almost feeling like an afterthought in the design process. The wireless phone charging pad, located in the same cubby, can also be a bit difficult to access and retrieve your phone from.
Image: Close-up of the 2022 Toyota Venza’s center console, highlighting the start/stop button and wireless charging pad placement.
Compared to the RAV4, the Venza offers slightly less rear passenger and cargo space. The sloping roofline, while contributing to the stylish exterior, does reduce cargo volume somewhat. While still practical for most needs, families who frequently haul large items or require maximum rear-seat legroom might find the RAV4 or other competitors more accommodating.
Price Point
The 2022 Toyota Venza occupies a slightly higher price point than the RAV4 Hybrid. While the Venza offers a more premium feel and some additional features, the price difference might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. Competitors like the Honda CR-V Hybrid might offer similar fuel economy and practicality at a slightly lower price, though potentially without the same level of interior refinement as the Venza.
Overly Sensitive Safety Systems
Like many modern Toyotas, the Venza’s driver-assistance systems, particularly the radar cruise control and collision detection, can be somewhat intrusive. The radar cruise control tends to maintain a larger following distance than some drivers might prefer and can brake more abruptly than expected. While these systems are designed to enhance safety, their sensitivity can occasionally lead to less-than-smooth driving experiences.
Image: Interior view of the 2022 Toyota Venza’s dashboard and digital instrument cluster.
Venza vs. the Competition
The 2022 Venza competes in the popular mid-size SUV segment, going head-to-head with models like the Honda CR-V Hybrid, Ford Escape Hybrid, and Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid. Compared to these rivals, the Venza stands out with its more upscale styling and potentially slightly better fuel economy. However, the CR-V Hybrid might offer more interior space for less money, while the Escape Hybrid could provide a more engaging driving experience. The best choice ultimately depends on individual priorities and preferences.
Is the 2022 Toyota Venza Right for You?
The 2022 Toyota Venza is an excellent choice for buyers who prioritize style, fuel efficiency, and a comfortable, refined driving experience in a mid-size SUV. It’s particularly well-suited for:
- Commuters and city dwellers: The exceptional fuel economy makes it ideal for daily driving and navigating congested areas.
- Eco-conscious buyers: The hybrid powertrain offers reduced emissions and excellent MPG without the need for charging.
- Those seeking a touch of luxury: The Venza’s upscale design and interior provide a more premium feel compared to some mainstream SUVs.
However, it might not be the best fit for:
- Buyers needing maximum cargo or passenger space: The RAV4 or larger SUVs might be more practical.
- Enthusiast drivers: The Venza prioritizes comfort over sporty handling.
- Budget-focused shoppers: While fuel-efficient, the initial price is higher than some competitors.
Conclusion: A Stylish and Efficient Choice
The 2022 Toyota Venza successfully carves out a niche as a stylish, fuel-efficient, and comfortable hybrid SUV. It may not be the most exciting or the most spacious option in its class, but it delivers on its promise of providing a premium-feeling, economical, and easy-to-live-with vehicle. If you value sophisticated design and outstanding hybrid efficiency in your next SUV, the 2022 Toyota Venza deserves a close look.
2022 Toyota Venza photos | The Road Beat
Image: Aesthetic front view of the 2022 Toyota Venza showcasing its grille and headlights, emphasizing its attractive design.
