
What Is the 2023 Toyota Venza?
The 2023 Toyota Venza is a mid-size SUV with two rows of seats and a hybrid powertrain that sends power to all four wheels via a continuously variable automatic transmission. It’s not exactly a Supra sports car in terms of getting down the road, but the Venza delivers good mileage with car-like driving manners. We did, however, find the brakes too spongy, and we disliked the rubber-band-ish feel of the CVT. The cabin is extremely well-done, though, with the look of a luxury SUV.
What’s New on the 2023 Toyota Venza?
Toyota introduces a Nightshade Edition to the Venza lineup for the 2023 model year. Using the midrange XLE trim as its base, this version adds black exterior trim and black-painted alloy wheels. Available Nightshade Edition exterior colors include Ruby Red Flare, Wind Chill Pearl and Celestial Black.
What Features in the 2023 Toyota Venza Are Most Important?
Standard features include:
- 8-inch touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Amazon Alexa
- Bluetooth
- Wireless device charging
- Four USB ports
- Cloth upholstery
- Keyless entry
- Dual-zone climate control
- Automatic emergency braking
- Blind spot warning
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic high-beam headlights
Available features include:
- Leather seating surfaces
- 3-inch touchscreen
- Navigation
- Heated steering wheel
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Head-up instrument display
- Panoramic moonroof
Should I Buy the 2023 Toyota Venza?
The Toyota Venza is an interesting choice for anyone in the market for a two-row mid-size SUV. Capable of an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in city driving and 37 mpg on the highway, the Venza is definitely easy on your fuel budget. The fit and finish of its cabin is up to the standards of a luxury-badged SUV, but a fairly steep starting price, quirky behavior from the automatic transmission and a relatively cozy cargo area dent the Venza’s overall appeal.