2021 Toyota Venza vs 2021 Toyota Highlander

The 2021 Toyota Venza, when it was introduced, was often compared to a Lexus in terms of its design. Critics noted its resemblance to the Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept, with its sleek grille and elongated profile, which blurred the lines between the two brands. The Venza was available in three trim levels—LE, XLE, and Limited—and offered a choice of seven paint colours, although not all were available across every trim. Standard features included dual chrome-tipped exhausts, LED lighting, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The interior boasted a wireless charging pad, dual-zone climate control, and an 8-inch infotainment screen, among other amenities. Higher trims added features like a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a Star Gaze panoramic roof.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander stood out with its bold design, featuring wide headlights, a long hood, and a trapezoidal grille. Its profile was accentuated by a character line reminiscent of the Supra sports car, and the taillights bore a Lexus-like design. The Highlander introduced the XSE trim, which added a sportier appearance with 20-inch alloy wheels and a unique front fascia. Our test vehicle, the Limited trim, showcased upscale chrome accents and a luxurious interior with tan leather seats and wood details. The Highlander prioritized comfort and convenience, making it a strong contender for families seeking a blend of practicality and style.

The 2021 Toyota Venza was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a lithium-ion battery pack, delivering a combined 219 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque. This hybrid system, coupled with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT), provided smooth acceleration, although it was not particularly rapid. The Venza excelled in fuel efficiency, achieving an estimated 5.9 L/100 km in the city and 6.1 L/100 km combined, outperforming competitors like the Murano and Blazer. Its handling was confident, and the all-wheel-drive system ensured stability. Toyota backed the hybrid powertrain with a 10-year/240,000-kilometre warranty.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive, the Highlander offered a balanced performance, suitable for highway merging and everyday driving. While not designed for high-speed thrills, it compared well with competitors like the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride. The XSE trim added sportier suspension tuning, enhancing driving excitement without compromising comfort. The Highlander's powertrain was reliable, making it a solid choice for families.

Inside the 2021 Toyota Venza, the cabin featured a unique design with premium appointments, including a deep centre console with resizable cup holders and a wireless charging pad. The front seats were spacious, and the rear seats comfortably accommodated two adults. The Venza offered 816 litres of cargo space, which was less than the RAV4 but sufficient for daily use. The quick-flip releases on the 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks made arranging cargo space easy.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander excelled in interior space, with shelves ahead of the front seats for storage and a wireless charging pad in the centre console. Second-row passengers enjoyed ample legroom, with available captain's chairs that could slide to adjust space for the third row. The third row was suitable for adults only if the second row was adjusted. Cargo space behind the third row was 453 litres, expanding to 1,150 litres with the third row folded, and 2,245 litres with both rear rows down, providing ample room for various needs.

The 2021 Toyota Venza featured an 8-inch infotainment system on the LE trim, while the XLE and Limited trims boasted a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The Entune system, though improved, was not the most user-friendly. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a six-speaker audio system. The XLE and Limited trims included a nine-speaker JBL audio system. Toyota connected services, such as Safety Connect and Remote Connect, were standard, with dynamic navigation available on models with the larger screen.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander offered an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, with a 12.3-inch screen available on the Platinum trim. The system was user-friendly, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Navigation was available from the Limited grade, though it struggled with points of interest. The JBL audio system, standard from the Limited grade, provided good sound quality. The 12.3-inch screen was visually impressive, though not all apps utilized its full width.

The 2021 Toyota Venza came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including features like pre-collision warning, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was standard, with upgrades available. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, adding intersection support to its suite of safety features. Standard features included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind spot monitoring was also standard. The Highlander received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.