2023 Toyota RAV4 vs 2023 Toyota Venza

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 was available in four trim levels in Canada, ranging from the RAV4 LE at just over $35,000 to the RAV4 Limited, which exceeded $45,000. The design remained consistent with the 2019 model, particularly in the Trail trim, which featured a distinctive two-part face. The Trail trim, tested in its US equivalent, showcased a more aggressive grille, blacked-out wheels, and additional rugged styling elements, though it was more about appearance than off-road capability. Inside, the Trail trim added orange accents and contrast stitching, enhancing the otherwise basic interior. The RAV4 offered a range of upholstery options, from fabric to synthetic leather, with varying levels of adjustability and comfort features across trims.

The 2023 Toyota Venza, on the other hand, presented a sleek and sculpted design, more akin to a Lexus than a typical midsize crossover SUV. Its contoured body and tapering roofline gave it a unique and elegant appearance. Inside, the Venza borrowed elements from the RAV4 but elevated the experience with higher-quality materials and a more luxurious feel. The dashboard and centre stack were similar, but the Venza featured integrated climate control buttons and more soft-touch surfaces. Overall, the Venza was considered one of the best-looking vehicles in Toyota's lineup, offering a more refined and cohesive design compared to other models.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came standard with all-wheel drive (AWD) across all trims, powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which, while preferable to a CVT, did not enhance acceleration significantly. The RAV4's performance was deemed unobjectionable, with a noticeable engine noise. The Trail trim featured 19-inch wheels with all-season tires and shared the same suspension setup as other RAV4 models.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Venza utilized a hybrid system combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with electric motor/generators and a 1.6-kilowatt-hour nickel metal hydride battery pack, delivering a total of 219 horsepower. The Venza's AWD system was powered by a CVT, with a separate electric motor driving the rear wheels. The Venza offered smooth acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in just over 7.5 seconds. Its ride quality prioritized comfort over sporty handling, with light steering and adequate maneuverability. The Venza's suspension absorbed road imperfections well, providing a smoother ride than the RAV4 Hybrid.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 accommodated five passengers, offering 958 mm of front headroom and 1,001 mm in the rear with the moonroof. Front legroom measured 1,039 mm, while the rear provided 960 mm, making it competitive in the segment. The RAV4 featured ample storage options, including a shelf along the glove compartment and generous door pockets. Cargo space was 1,059 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded.

The 2023 Toyota Venza's front seats provided ample space for taller occupants, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. The Star Gaze panoramic roof, standard on the Limited trim, offered an opaque mode for added privacy. Rear visibility was limited, but the interior featured high-quality materials throughout. The rear seats offered sufficient space for average adults, with abundant legroom. Cargo capacity was limited to 816 litres, significantly less than competitors. However, the Venza excelled in small-item storage, with a wireless phone charger, large cupholders, and spacious door pockets.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen as standard, upgraded to a 10.5-inch screen in the Limited trim. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with over-the-air updates. The Limited trim also featured an 11-speaker JBL Premium audio system. A 7-inch driver-information display was standard, with a 12.3-inch version in the Limited trim.

The 2023 Toyota Venza offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad. The base LE trim featured an 8-inch touchscreen, while the XLE and Limited trims boasted a 12.3-inch display. The new infotainment system provided sharp graphics and quick responses. The XLE and Limited trims included a one-year trial of Drive Connect services, activated by voice command. The base audio system had six speakers, with a nine-speaker JBL premium audio system available on higher trims.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite, including lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and more. It earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with top scores in crash-testing.

The 2023 Toyota Venza received five stars in overall and side crash protection from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. It featured the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite, with additional safety features on higher trims, such as parking sensors and a surround-view camera system.