Overview
The 2021 Toyota Venza marked the return of a nameplate to the North American market, repositioning the vehicle as a dedicated two-row mid-size hybrid crossover. Unlike the previous generation, which functioned as a wagon-like derivative of the Camry, the 2021 model was developed as a premium-leaning alternative to the RAV4. Built on the Toyota TNGA-K platform, it shares its structural architecture with high-volume models like the Highlander and the Lexus NX, emphasizing ride comfort, interior refinement, and fuel efficiency.
Engineering for this generation focused exclusively on a hybrid powertrain, reflecting Toyota’s strategy to standardize electrification across its SUV lineup. The vehicle is manufactured at the Takaoka plant in Japan, maintaining a reputation for high build quality and assembly precision. By targeting buyers who prioritize fuel economy and a quiet cabin over maximum cargo utility, the Venza occupies a niche between mainstream crossovers and entry-level luxury vehicles. Its design language features a sleek, coupe-inspired silhouette, distinguishing it from the more utilitarian aesthetic of its siblings.
| Vehicle Overview | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Venza AWD |
| Model Year | 2021 |
| Generation | Second Generation |
| Trim | LE, XLE, Limited |
| Body Style | 5-door SUV |
| Vehicle Segment | Mid-size Crossover |
| Vehicle Class | Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD |
| Market | USA |
| Platform | TNGA-K |
| Assembly Plant | Takaoka, Japan |
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| Production Start | 2020 |
| Production End | 2024 |
| VIN Identifier | JTM |
| Base MSRP | $32,470 |
| Destination Charge | $1,175 |
| Total MSRP | – |
| Powertrain | |
| Powertrain Type | Hybrid |
| Engine Family | Toyota Dynamic Force |
| Engine Name | A25A-FXS |
| Engine Code | – |
| Engine Configuration | Inline-4 |
| Displacement | 2.5 Liters |
| Bore x Stroke | 87.5 mm x 103.4 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 14.0:1 |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel Delivery | Direct and Port Injection |
| Valve Train | DOHC 16-valve |
| Engine Block Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Cylinder Head Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Oil Capacity | 4.8 qt |
| Oil Specification / Viscosity | 0W-16 |
| Horsepower | 219 hp (Combined) |
| Torque | – |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | Automatic (AV-S6) |
| Final Drive Ratio | – |
| Axle Ratio | – |
| Fuel Economy | |
| Fuel Type | Regular Gasoline |
| Recommended Octane | 87 |
| EPA City MPG | 40 |
| EPA Highway MPG | 37 |
| EPA Combined MPG | 39 |
| EPA City MPGe (for EV/PHEV) | – |
| EPA Highway MPGe (for EV/PHEV) | – |
| EPA Combined MPGe (for EV/PHEV) | – |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 km) | 6.0 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) | 14.5 |
| Estimated Driving Range | 565 miles |
| Annual Fuel Cost | $1,150 |
| CO₂ Emissions | 161 g/mile |
| Greenhouse Gas Score | 7 |
| Smog Rating | 7 |
| Electric Vehicle System | |
| Battery Supplier | Prime Planet Energy & Solutions |
| Battery Chemistry | 245V Li-Ion and NiMH |
| Gross Battery Capacity (kWh) | 0.9 |
| Usable Battery Capacity (kWh) | – |
| System Voltage | 245V |
| Number of Motors | 3 |
| Combined Output | 219 hp |
| Combined Torque | – |
| EPA Range (Miles) | – |
| On-board Charger Power (kW) | – |
| AC Charging Power | – |
| DC Fast Charging Power | – |
| Charge Port | – |
| Charging Standard (CCS1/NACS) | – |
| DC Charge Time (10-80%) | – |
| Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) | No |
| Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) | No |
| Heat Pump | No |
| Performance | |
| 0-30 mph | – |
| 0-60 mph | 7.6 seconds |
| 0-100 mph | – |
| Quarter Mile | 15.8 seconds |
| Top Speed | 118 mph |
| Braking Distance (60-0 mph) | 124 ft |
| Lateral Acceleration | 0.81g |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | – |
| Dimensions & Capacities | |
| Length (in) | 186.6 |
| Width (Without Mirrors) (in) | 73.0 |
| Width (With Mirrors) (in) | – |
| Height (in) | 65.9 |
| Wheelbase (in) | 105.9 |
| Front Track (in) | 63.0 |
| Rear Track (in) | 63.4 |
| Ground Clearance (in) | 7.8 |
| Curb Weight (lbs) | 3,913 |
| GVWR (lbs) | 4,920 |
| Towing Capacity (lbs) | – |
| Payload Capacity (lbs) | 1,075 |
| Passenger Volume (cu ft) | 98.4 |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft) | 28.8 |
| Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft) | 55.1 |
| Turning Circle | 38.7 ft |
| Approach Angle | – |
| Departure Angle | – |
| Breakover Angle | – |
| Safety Ratings | |
| NHTSA Overall Rating | 5 Stars |
| NHTSA Frontal Crash | 4 Stars |
| NHTSA Side Crash | 5 Stars |
| NHTSA Rollover | 4 Stars |
| IIHS Award | Top Safety Pick |
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front | Good |
| Side Impact | Good |
| Headlights Rating | Good |
| Front Crash Prevention | Superior |
| Technology & Connectivity | |
| Infotainment Display | 8.0 or 12.3 inch |
| Instrument Cluster | 4.2 or 7.0 inch |
| Apple CarPlay | Standard |
| Android Auto | Standard |
| Navigation System | Available |
| Audio System | JBL Premium |
| Speaker Count | 9 |
| Wireless Charging | Available |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | Available |
| OTA Updates | No |
| Digital Key | No |
| Warranty & Ownership | |
| Basic Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Corrosion Warranty | 5 years / unlimited miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 2 years / unlimited miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | 2 years / 25,000 miles |
| Hybrid Component Warranty | 8 years / 100,000 miles |
| EV Battery Warranty | 10 years / 150,000 miles |
| Specs.Autos Exclusive Data | |
| Engine Assembly Plant | Toyota Motor Corporation, Japan |
| Transmission Supplier | Aisin |
| Battery Cell Manufacturer | Prime Planet Energy & Solutions |
| Gear Ratios | – |
| Differential Type | Electronic On-Demand AWD |
| Cooling System Capacity | – |
| Frunk Capacity (cu ft) | – |
| Roof Load Capacity (lbs) | 165 |
| Safety Recall Count | – |
| Production Volume | – |
| Units Sold in USA | – |
Consumer Insights & Market Appeal
The 2021 Toyota Venza is widely regarded for its exceptional fuel efficiency and high-quality interior materials, which elevate it above standard mid-size crossovers. Reliability remains a strong point, as the hybrid powertrain is a proven unit shared with other Toyota products. Prospective buyers should note that the cargo capacity is somewhat restricted due to the aggressive roofline and battery placement, making it less practical for hauling bulky items compared to the RAV4. On the used market, the Venza holds its value well, appealing to those who prioritize a quiet, comfortable commute and long-term durability over raw performance or maximum utility. Common maintenance items are standard for the brand, though owners should monitor the hybrid battery health and ensure the electronic all-wheel-drive system receives regular inspections.
