2021 Toyota Venza vs 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

At first glance, the 2021 Toyota Venza looks more like a Lexus than a typical Toyota, which is fitting, because the Venza is anything but typical. The new Venza blends a new approach to in-car technology with fresh exterior and interior design.

Like the Nissan Murano, Honda Passport, Ford Edge, and Chevrolet Blazer, the Venza is a two-row SUV meant to be more sophisticated than the family-friendly Nissan Rogue, Honda CR-V, Chevrolet Equinox, and Toyota RAV4. There is no three-row Venza option.

It also comes only with a hybrid powertrain—for better or worse—something that its competition is lacking. All-wheel drive is also standard. That's also offered by the competition, but only as a costly upgrade.

The Venza’s $32,470 starting price is slightly higher than the Murano and Blazer, but it comes with the traditionally-more-expensive hybrid powertrain. Is the hybrid worth shelling out a little more for?