2022 Toyota Venza vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was designed with a rugged exterior that mimicked the look of a traditional SUV, featuring boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and a scowling front end. This aggressive styling set it apart from previous RAV4 generations and most other compact crossovers, giving it a distinctive presence on the road. Despite its bold exterior, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which it shared with other Toyota models like the Camry and Sienna. This meant that while it looked like a 4Runner, its mechanical components were more akin to a Camry.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Venza boasted a modern exterior design with excellent proportions that could easily fit into the Lexus lineup. Its most striking feature was the deeply scalloped body side that formed the rear fender, giving it an organic and powerful look. The tailgate was eye-catching with a horizontal LED stripe, and the prominent nose added to its unique design. The Venza's interior was elegant and Lexus-like, with high-quality materials and a well-thought-out layout. The layered dash and well-placed touchscreen display contributed to a sophisticated cabin environment, making it a comfortable and stylish choice for families.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered standard front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive. While the engine achieved impressive thermal efficiency and revved like a racing engine, the transmission struggled to keep up, leading to a less dynamic driving experience. The RAV4's steering was responsive but lacked feel, and the "Sport" driving mode only added weight to the steering without enhancing performance. Off-road capabilities were a focus, with the Trail and TRD Off-Road models offering torque-vectoring all-wheel drive and 21.7 centimetres of ground clearance.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine combined with three electric motors, delivering a total of 219 horsepower. The hybrid system balanced electric and gas drive for optimal efficiency, with electric motors at the rear axle providing all-wheel drive. Drivers could choose from EV, Normal, Eco, and Sport modes to tailor performance. Regenerative braking helped recharge the lithium-ion battery, and the Venza offered a smooth and agile driving experience. Its taller body and higher ground clearance didn't encourage aggressive cornering, but it excelled as a midsize family vehicle with a comfortable ride.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered a tall, upright roof that provided ample headroom and good outward visibility. However, legroom in both rows was slightly behind competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats had flat, hard cushions, making long trips less appealing. Cargo space was above average, with 1,059 litres behind the rear seats and 1,977 litres with them folded. The interior featured oversized knobs and easy-to-use controls, but lacked large cupholders and storage space on the console.

The 2022 Toyota Venza seated five in two rows, with good headroom and legroom in both. The second row offered 114.8 cm of hip room, accommodating three adults comfortably. The cabin felt roomy, especially with the available Star Gaze panoramic sunroof. Convenience features included an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, electric parking brake, and sliding sun visors. The Venza's lithium-ion battery pack didn't impact cargo capacity, offering 816 litres behind the second row and 1,560 litres with it folded. Toyota focused on creating a quiet cabin with sound-blocking materials, resulting in a serene driving experience.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Most trims featured a 7-inch touchscreen, with Trail and Limited models getting an 8-inch screen. The RAV4 Prime offered a 9-inch screen. Up to five USB ports were available, and a JBL premium audio system was optional. The infotainment system was user-friendly but not particularly flashy, lacking features like a head-up display available on the RAV4 Prime.

The 2022 Toyota Venza's hybrid powertrain required no special attention, making it convenient for those without access to charging infrastructure. The Predicted Efficient Drive program used navigation data to optimize battery charging. The Venza LE featured an eight-inch touchscreen, while XLE and Limited models added a 12.3-inch screen, JBL audio system, and head-up display. Toyota Connected Services included Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Remote Connect. The Limited trim offered additional features like rain-sensing wipers and a digital rearview mirror.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. However, it missed the highest rating due to mixed headlight scores. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. Blind spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system were also available.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came with the Toyota Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. It featured eight airbags and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Blind-spot monitoring and hill-start assist were standard, with XLE and Limited models adding parking assist and a surround-view camera. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.