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Design: OpulentContours and the Oath of Exploration
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Performance: Comparable Engines with AWD, Matching Speed
- Hybrids Are Just Quicker
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Interior: Enhanced Sound Insulation in the Venza
- Venza Tech Highlights
- RAV4 Tech Highlights
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Pricing and Overview: Rebates Available on the Venza, with the RAV4 Starting at a Lower Price
Given its status as the global leader in automobile production, Toyota provides an extensive range of crossover vehicles designed precisely for various market needs. Considering the multitude of options available, it makes sense to carefully examine these offerings. Toyota Venza versus RAV4 specifications, while bearing in mind that the RAV4 continues to be the top-selling compact crossover in the U.S. Notably, it has achieved sales of 475,000 units in 2024 alone. surpassed the sales numbers of the Ford F-150 by February.
The Toyota Venza, available only as a hybrid and referred to as the second-generation Harrier internationally, was marketed for merely four years prior to being succeeded by the extended and pricier 2025 model with an MSRP of $43,590. Toyota Crown Signia Despite that, the 2024 Venza continues to be an appealing and well-equipped option compared to the RAV4, which has not seen significant changes since its redesign in 2021. Nonetheless, choosing between them requires careful consideration; overall though, either crossover would be a solid pick as they both offer remarkable versatility.
From a customer’s viewpoint, we contrast two equally sized and widely favored Toyota crossover models using information exclusively obtained from the manufacturer. This helps potential buyers decide between these two strong contenders within the bustling compact SUV market. The Venza will cease production following the 2024 model year, whereas the RAV4 is set to be updated with its subsequent generation in time for 2026.
Design: Opulent Curves Or The Allure of Exploration
From the information provided in the table, both of these compact SUVs share the same wheelbase. In 2023, Toyota described the 2024 Venza as embodying "refined elegance." However, what they likely intended to convey was that this luxurious hybrid model aligns more closely with the aesthetic of a Lexus rather than adhering strictly to typicalToyota crossover designs, which tend to emphasize rugged appearance and practicality over streamlined aesthetics and a sporty profile.
The 2024 Venza Nightshade Edition had a price tag of $40,255 and came with just three color options: Celestial Black, Wind Chill Pearl, or Ruby Flare Red. These hues were complemented by black-painted accents throughout the interior and exterior. Features included an acrylic front grille, 19-inch glossy-black multi-spoke wheels as opposed to the regular 18-inch ones, plus LED fog lights and an optional panoramic sunroof. Despite these premium touches, this model remained less expensive than the Venza Limited which cost $43,065. In contrast, a basic Venza LE began at $34,920.
The RAV4 acts as a versatile tool within Toyota’s range of vehicles. With numerous trim levels offering distinctly varied driving experiences thanks to differences in suspension setups, AWD configurations, tire dimensions, and hybrid powertrain choices. Although a basic model might seem somewhat bare-bones and unremarkable, achieving excellent bang-for-your-buck doesn’t require a significant investment. the XLE and up With a hybrid drivetrain and variants such as the ruggedly styled Woodland Edition designed for light off-road adventures, or the performance-oriented XSE tailored for road racing, the RAV4 lineup offers options for nearly everyone. Additionally, priced below $30k, it’s significantly more budget-friendly compared to the Venza.
Anticipate bolder, more utility-inspired designs, along with LED lighting and an extensive palette of colors, culminating in the upscale Hybrid Limited model priced at $40,605. Additionally, you can opt for the significantly more potent and faster Plug-in Hybrid variant, offering a combined output of 302 horsepower with a base cost of $43,865 for the SE trim level. This represents a substantial enhancement in performance capabilities.
In the red corner, the Venza remains the sleeker, more upscale choice among mid-size Japanese hybrid crossovers, boasting what’s referred to as European design aesthetics. You might encounter it now listed under certified pre-owned vehicles, assuming you haven’t stumbled upon an untouched new model yet.
Performance: Comparable Engines Featuring AWD, Electric Surprise
Hybrids Are Just Quicker
For the 2024 Venza, depending on the model, the curb weight varies between 3,847 pounds and 3,913 pounds. The regular gas-powered version of today’s RAV4 has a base weight starting at around 3,370 pounds, which can go as high as 3,485 pounds. Alternatively, for the hybrid versions like the RAV4 Limited Hybrid, the starting point rises slightly to about 3,690 pounds but peaks at approximately 3,800 pounds. Interestingly, when you consider the most powerful variant—the RAV4 Prime—its curb weight jumps significantly to roughly 4,300 pounds. Given these figures, even though the entry-level RAV4 Hybrid offers impressive performance due to its lighter body combined with enhanced motor torque, making it potentially quicker among economical options; however, this difference may not always be noticeable. Notably, the RAV4 Prime stands out again because of its advanced powertrain system despite being pricier. Excluding models equipped with plug-ins, consumers have access to an extensive selection within both the Venza and standard/limited hybrids of the RAV4 family. Meanwhile, those opting solely for internal combustion engines benefit from their reduced mass alongside crisper handling characteristics thanks to superior steering responsiveness.
On the highway, the Venza stands out for being notably quieter compared to its more common counterpart. While we wouldn’t describe it as sporty, the vehicle handles impressively due to its MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension system. The combination of an on-demand all-wheel-drive mechanism and Active Cornering Assist—which employs stability control to minimize understeering—allows the Venza to adhere well to the road. Additionally, this suspension configuration ensures that the car glides effortlessly even when navigating bumpy terrain, avoiding excessive bobbing or disturbance inside the cabin.
- Jared Rosenholtz, Senior Editor at Solusikaki.com (Review of 2021 Toyota Venza Test Drive)
Selecting the RAV4's TRD Off-Road version significantly changes the game with its distinctive features, including 18-inch black TRD-exclusive alloy wheels designed in a six-spoke pattern and equipped with all-terrain tires for enhanced performance.
Driving an ordinary RAV4 may not feel exceptional, yet it remains courteous and straightforward. Despite having improved shock absorbers and tuning, it still exhibits some body roll due to the more forgiving suspension system. However, the smooth highway experience is quite pleasant, especially navigating through Southern California’s bumpy freeway stretches heading towards the Johnson Valley region. In essence, trading off comfort for slight instability during turns might be a compromise many would readily accept daily, considering its enhanced performance when needed.
- Ian Wright, Lead Tire Tester, solusikaki.com (2022 Toyota RAV4 Test Drive)
Toyota’s renowned 2.5-liter Dynamic Force inline-four engine is crafted entirely from aluminum and employs the D-4S Direct Injection System with dual injection technology along with variable valve timing for an impressive stated thermal efficiency of 40 percent. In terms of fuel economy, the RAV4 Hybrid slightly outperforms the regular hybrid model with on-demand AWD like the Venza. Additionally, the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid boasts an electric-only driving range of 42 miles as per Toyota specifications.
Interior: Enhanced Sound Insulation in the Venza
The Venza boasts superior materials and a serene ambiance, whereas the RAV4 excels in durability and practicality. You might consider the Venza as a "luxury-inspired RAV4," which is unfortunately discontinued and significantly more affordable. the new Crown Signia Sure, you're aware that numerous well-outfitted Venzas are probably sitting around, eager to serve as an ideal substitute for someone’s RAV4. It's worth noting that the RAV4 offers robust outdoor capabilities along with comfortable amenities like panoramic sunroofs and adequate audio systems. This implies your choice may ultimately hinge on your preference within the vehicle interior. Should wide center screens and ambient lighting appeal more to you, then those points go to the Venza.
Venza Tech Highlights
- Available with a 12.3-inch Toyota audio multimedia system and a star gaze panoramic roof.
- Toyota Audio Multimedia and Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 Included as Standard
- All trim levels come with an eight-way adjustable power driver's seat.
- Premium audio system included, along with a 12.3-inch fully digital dashboard, a digital rearview mirror, and a 10-inch colored Heads-Up Display.
- Enhanced noise-cancelling and insulating materials
RAV4 Tech Highlights
- Toyota Audio Multimedia and Toyota SafetySense 2.5 Included as Standard
- SofTex trim material featuring blue stitching, along with blue ambient lighting throughout, and a panoramic glass roof complete with a front power tilt/slide moonroof are available options.
- Available Weather Package
- Standard 8-inch touch screen with six speakers
The RAV4 competes fiercely when it comes to cargo capacity and towing capabilities. While Toyota does not endorse towing with the Venza, hence no official rating provided, the entry-level RAV4 can easily pull up to 1,500 pounds. Additionally, because of its more athletic sloping roof design, the Venza has less rear space compared to the RAV4. This makes the RAV4 a superior choice as a family vehicle or an everyday driver capable of handling larger loads efficiently.
Pricing and Overview: Discounts Available on the Venza; RAV4 Begins at Lower Price
If we cannot achieve favorable pricing from the MSRP, the Venza stands out as a pricier version of the TNGA-K (GA-K) platform used also by the RAV4 and numerous other Toyota and Lexus vehicles. Spanning from $34,920 to $43,065 in its last production year, the Venza’s successor—the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia—comes with an initial price tag of $43,790. This is comparable to the starting cost of the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, which begins at $43,865.
When compared to recent hybrid models, the conventional RAV4 provides superior value, particularly when several upscale add-ons are included. Despite having an identical part-time all-wheel-drive setup and a similar hybrid engine, along with a broader selection of trim levels and accessory choices, the now-discontinued Venza might appeal to buyers seeking a quieter driving experience coupled with standard luxurious amenities within a sportier design. On the other hand, RAV4 purchasers tend toward straightforwardness, adaptability, and style suited for light off-road adventures.
Car prices aren't becoming more affordable in 2025, thus we cast our vote for the RAV4 TRD Off-Road It began at $38,095 but has been removed from the 2025 RAV4 lineup. Instead, consider the RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition equipped with the Weather Package, which is now listed at $38,340.
Sources: Toyota, EPA