2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2021 Toyota Venza

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, redesigned in 2019, presented a more rugged and angular appearance compared to its predecessors. Its front fascia, reminiscent of the Toyota 4Runner, featured stacked trapezoidal apertures and a perforated grille, giving it a robust and mechanical look. The dark trim around the wheel wells and doorsills suggested that the RAV4 Hybrid was not just a practical vehicle for everyday errands but also capable of off-road adventures. Available in four trims—LE, XLE, XSE, and Limited—the RAV4 Hybrid offered 17-inch wheels on lower trims and 18-inch wheels on the XSE and Limited, enhancing its stance. Inside, the design was simple yet functional, with tasteful shiny trim. While leather upholstery was not available, the Softex and fabric seats provided comfort, and the interior materials were of good quality, though not as luxurious as some competitors.

The 2021 Toyota Venza, slightly shorter and lower than the RAV4, was often compared to a Lexus in terms of design. Its elongated profile and grille drew inspiration from the Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept, giving it a sophisticated look. Offered in three trims—LE, XLE, and Limited—the Venza came in seven paint colors, with a range of standard features including LED headlights, dual chrome-tipped exhaust, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The interior boasted a unique design with premium appointments, such as piano black capacitive buttons for climate and infotainment controls. The center console was well-equipped with features like a wireless charging pad and heated seat buttons. The Venza's seats were comfortable for both front and rear passengers, making it suitable for longer drives. While it had less cargo space than the RAV4, the Venza's interior was more refined and elegant.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid delivered 219 horsepower, 16 more than its non-hybrid counterpart, and boasted an impressive EPA fuel economy rating of 40 mpg combined. This efficiency was consistently achievable in real-world testing, making it a standout in its class. The RAV4 Hybrid's powertrain combined a 2.5-liter, 176-horsepower four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, providing all-wheel drive without the need for a heavy driveshaft. This setup allowed the RAV4 Hybrid to weigh only about 200 pounds more than the regular model, benefiting both handling and fuel economy. The hybrid system offered smooth acceleration and regenerative braking, with the ability to tow up to 1,750 pounds. The steering was light, and the suspension was soft, ensuring a comfortable driving experience.

The 2021 Toyota Venza also featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a lithium-ion battery and electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque. While not the most powerful in its class, the Venza provided adequate acceleration and smooth power delivery. The electronically-controlled continuously-variable transmission (eCVT) contributed to a noisy cabin during acceleration, but the noise subsided at cruising speeds. The Venza excelled in fuel economy, achieving an EPA-estimated 40 mpg on the highway, 37 mpg in the city, and 39 mpg combined, outperforming competitors like the Murano and Passport. The Venza's handling was confident and typical of a Toyota, with a focus on comfort and ease of driving.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered excellent ergonomics with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, with an optional 8-inch screen, positioned prominently on the dashboard. The center console provided ample storage, including space for a cell phone and cupholders. While the cabin could be quieter, the RAV4 Hybrid's electric drive helped reduce engine noise. The rear seat was spacious, accommodating three adults comfortably, and the cargo area offered 37.6 cubic feet of space, with no compromise in interior or cargo space due to the hybrid system.

The 2021 Toyota Venza's interior was distinct, with premium appointments and a unique design. The center stack featured capacitive buttons for climate and infotainment controls, and the console included a wireless charging pad and other conveniences. The Venza's seats were comfortable for both front and rear passengers, with more headroom than the RAV4. While the Venza had less cargo space, with a maximum of 55.1 cubic feet, it was still practical for daily use. The quick-flip releases on the rear seatbacks made arranging the cargo space easy.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid introduced Android Auto alongside Apple CarPlay, providing excellent infotainment options. While Toyota's Entune system was less favored, the inclusion of smartphone integration was a significant improvement. The RAV4 Hybrid also featured WiFi Connect, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant compatibility. The Predictive Efficient Drive system enhanced hybrid efficiency, and drivers could choose between Eco, Sport, and Trail modes for different driving experiences.

The 2021 Toyota Venza came with an 8-inch infotainment system on the LE and XLE trims, while the Limited trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The Entune system, though improved, was not the most user-friendly. The Venza included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa as standard, along with a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Limited trim offered a nine-speaker JBL audio system. Toyota connected services, such as Safety Connect and Remote Connect, were also standard, providing additional convenience and safety features.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included features like a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and parking assist. The RAV4 Hybrid received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, with two recalls issued for engine coolant leaks and suspension issues.

The 2021 Toyota Venza also featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with similar safety and driver-assist technologies. Standard features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, with optional automatic braking. The Venza's safety systems performed well, though the lane-keeping assist tended to keep the vehicle further to the right within the lane.