2023 Toyota Venza vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 continued the model's tradition of evolving design that began with its North American debut in 1996. Initially launched as a small alternative to the large SUVs dominating the market at the time, the RAV4 captured the attention of young buyers with its “Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-Wheel Drive” concept. This inception led to a wave of competitors like the Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, and Hyundai Tucson, collectively dubbed “cute-utes.” Despite this dismissal, the RAV4 and its peers grew in sophistication and size over five generations, becoming sales leaders in the crossover SUV segment.

The 2022 RAV4 maintained a balance between fitting in with contemporary crossover designs and standing out with specific details. It had angular wheel arches and crisp lines contrasted with the organic body-side bends. The expressive headlights, snub-nosed grille, and grinning lower fascia openings provided a Kabuki-like playful yet aggressive expression. Traditional Toyota fit-and-finish was evident throughout the exterior, underlining a sense of quality.

Inside, the RAV4 featured a layered dashboard with contrasting textures and colors supported by a straightforward center stack. The touchscreen interface was positioned to minimize driver distraction. Close examination of the interior revealed unique design cues, like a geometric pattern inspired by circuit boards, tying together the cloth seat inserts, sill plates, and dash pieces. The Adventure-trim test vehicle even showcased this design on its 19-inch matte gray alloy wheels.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Venza took a different design approach with its sleek and sculpted exterior, reminiscent of luxury vehicles like Lexus. The rear roofline's tapering down to a sharp point at the taillights avoided the weakness often seen in "coupe-like" SUVs. The harmonious blending of curves gave it an appearance more aligned with Mazda's style, a departure from the traditional Toyota look.

The Venza's interior bore similarities to the RAV4's dash and center stack but featured noticeably higher-quality materials and details. Instead of large dials, the climate-control panel utilized integrated buttons. The cabin boasted more soft-touch surfaces, enhancing the luxurious feel. This elevated quality made the Venza's interior approach the refinement level of a Lexus.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrain options. The gasoline-only model, tested for this review, employed a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with Toyota direct injection and variable valve timing. It produced 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Drivers could choose between front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive. Fuel economy was impressive at 27-28 mpg city and 35 mpg highway for FWD, and slightly lower for AWD models at 25-27 mpg city and 32-34 mpg highway.

The RAV4 Hybrid used the same engine but combined with an electric motor for a total of 217 horsepower. It delivered an excellent fuel-economy rating of 41 mpg city and 38 mpg highway. The RAV4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid, boasted 302 horsepower and could run up to 42 miles on electricity alone. Its fuel economy without electric mode was 40 mpg city and 36 mpg highway, with an overall efficiency rating of 94 MPGe combined.

Our test vehicle, a gasoline Adventure AWD model, provided smooth and adequate power for daily driving. The eight-speed automatic transmission offered satisfactory response and familiar driving sensations without turbo lag. AWD models featured tuning for various road conditions and dynamic torque vectoring, enhancing cornering.

The 2023 Toyota Venza, equipped with a hybrid system found in the RAV4 Hybrid, delivered 219 horsepower from its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motors. A continuously variable transmission managed the power to the front wheels, while an additional electric motor powered the rear wheels for AWD. The Venza could accelerate to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, acceptable for its class.

While the Venza prioritized comfort over sporty handling, it provided a smooth ride. The steering was light and imprecise, but it suited the vehicle's calm driving nature. However, maneuverability was not its strong suit, requiring more effort for U-turns and multiple-point turns.

The RAV4, categorized as a small SUV, offered substantial cargo capacity. It could hold up to 37.5 cubic feet of luggage behind the second row, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat. The payload range of 1,050-1,230 pounds and the towing capacities varied, with Adventure and TRD Off-Road models capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds. The RAV4 Hybrid could tow 1,750 pounds, while the RAV4 Prime was rated for 2,500 pounds.

Inside, the RAV4 provided ample space for four passengers and could accommodate five if necessary. The front seats offered generous legroom, hip room, shoulder room, and headroom. Cupholders, bottle holders, and storage compartments were plentiful throughout the cabin.

The 2023 Venza's front seats also offered spaciousness and comfort for taller occupants, further enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. The Star Gaze panoramic roof was a unique feature, allowing the glass to turn opaque at the press of a button. Rear visibility was somewhat limited, but not uncommon for modern SUVs. The rear seats provided adequate space for adult passengers, though headroom was slightly restricted.

In terms of cargo capacity, the Venza fell short compared to the RAV4. It could hold up to only 28.8 cubic feet of cargo behind the rear seats. Unlike the RAV4, the Venza was not rated for towing. However, the Venza excelled in providing smaller storage solutions, including a wireless phone charger, well-sized cupholders, and a deep center armrest bin.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a range of technology features, with standard provisions like a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six-speaker audio, and compatibility with Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay. As one moved up the trim levels, features such as a 9-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system on Limited models became available. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced tech, including five USB ports, multiple power outlets, and a 10-inch color head-up display.

The 2023 Toyota Venza also provided modern technology, incorporating wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad. The base LE trim had an 8-inch touchscreen, while higher trims featured a 12.3-inch multimedia display. The new infotainment system for 2023 offered sharp graphics and responsive performance. The top Limited trim added features like Drive Connect services and a nine-speaker JBL premium audio system on higher trims.

Safety was a priority for both models. The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with the Toyota Star Safety System, featuring vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. It also had Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. The RAV4 received high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

Similarly, the 2023 Toyota Venza was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-departure assist. The Venza achieved five-star overall ratings from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.