2022 Toyota Venza vs 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2022 Toyota Venza, reintroduced in 2021, was built on the robust Toyota New Global Architecture K platform, shared with several other Toyota and Lexus models. This midsize crossover SUV measured 4,739 mm in length, 1,854 mm in width, and 1,674 mm in height, with a ground clearance of 196 mm. Its design was sleek and modern, featuring a distinctive scalloped body side and a prominent nose, making it more suited for urban environments than rugged terrains. Inside, the Venza offered a Lexus-like interior with high-quality materials, a layered dash, and a well-placed touchscreen display. The front seats were supportive, and the rear seats comfortably accommodated three adults.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid marked a significant departure in styling from its predecessors, presenting a more assertive and truck-like appearance. It was longer and wider than the previous model, with a muscular stance enhanced by its longer wheelbase and wider tracks. The CR-V retained its classic D-pillar taillights, now with a modern twist, and featured LED lighting throughout. The Hybrid Touring trim, in particular, boasted black roof rails, mirrors, and wheels, along with dual chrome exhaust finishers. Inside, the CR-V Hybrid followed the design cues of the 2022 Civic and 2023 HR-V, with a premium feel, high-quality materials, and a honeycomb grille spanning the dash.

The 2022 Toyota Venza was powered by a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, delivering a combined 219 horsepower. This hybrid system allowed for a balance between electric and gas drive, optimizing efficiency and performance. The Venza featured an AWD drivetrain, with electric motors at the rear axle providing power. Drivers could choose from EV, Normal, Eco, and Sport drive modes, and regenerative braking helped recharge the lithium-ion battery. The Venza offered sprightly performance and agile handling, making it a suitable midsize family hauler.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid offered a new hybrid powertrain combining a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. This made it the most powerful CR-V to date, with a top speed of 185 km/h. The CR-V Hybrid featured a CVT and four drive modes: Snow, Sport, Normal, and Econ. The updated Real Time AWD system could send up to 50% of engine torque to the rear wheels, and a new hill-descent control system was included. The CR-V Hybrid also introduced a "B" shifter position for increased regenerative braking, enhancing fuel efficiency with an estimated consumption of 6.4 L/100 km combined.

The 2022 Toyota Venza offered seating for five, with a 60/40-split folding second-row bench seat. Both rows provided ample headroom and legroom, with the second row offering 114.8 cm of hip room. The cabin felt spacious, especially with the available Star Gaze panoramic sunroof. Convenience features included an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, electric parking brake, and numerous storage options. The Venza's lithium-ion battery pack was located beneath the second-row seats, minimally impacting cargo capacity, which was 816 litres with the seats up and 1,560 litres with them folded.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid's larger exterior translated to increased interior volume, with 1,028 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 2,030 litres with them folded. The Touring model featured a hands-free power tailgate, and all CR-Vs had wide-opening rear doors for easy access. Rear seat legroom increased to 1,042 mm, and the reclining rear seats offered eight positions. The CR-V Hybrid's cabin included a cubby for smartphones, eight cupholders, and a console providing best-in-class storage.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a hybrid powertrain that required no special attention, offering a range of over 800 km on a full tank. The Predicted Efficient Drive program optimized battery charging based on driving habits. The Venza LE came with an eight-inch touchscreen, while the XLE and Limited offered a 12.3-inch display. The infotainment system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with various connectivity options. The Limited trim added a head-up display, rain-sensing wipers, and a digital rearview mirror.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid catered to those who preferred physical buttons, with a standard 7-inch touchscreen and a 9-inch display for higher trims. It included USB ports, Bluetooth, dual-zone climate control, and heated seats. The Hybrid Touring trim featured a 12-speaker Bose audio system, wireless charging, and Honda's smart navigation system, which optimized fuel efficiency based on the route.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came with the Toyota Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. It featured eight airbags, LATCH anchors, and child safety locks. The Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid included the Honda Sensing suite with improved collision mitigation, road-departure mitigation, and lane-keeping assist. New features included traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, and low-speed braking control. The CR-V Hybrid also had a blind-spot monitoring system, rear-seat reminder, and a stiffer structure for added safety. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA.