The 2021 Toyota Venza just joined the hybrid party. Toyota already has eight hybrids, so the Venza should have some unique features to excel past the competition. However, it may not compete well as a family hauler because the Toyota Venza hybrid has a problem for families. 

The 2021 Toyota Venza is small 

Please keep in mind that the 2021 Toyota Venza is an excellent midsize SUV with plenty of benefits to offer, but it’s not the best option for families. A couple without kids or someone who wants a fancy daily commuter for themselves would love it, though. 

So, what’s that issue for families? Well, according to Edmunds, the Toyota Venza is one of the smallest midsize SUVs. That means space is limited for the kids, all their stuff, the family dog, friends, and more.  

The Toyota Venza has about the same amount of space as the Toyota RAV4, which is considered to be in a smaller class. Other rivals such as the Subaru Outback and Honda that start around the same price have much more space to offer. 

Note: The 2021 Toyota Venza begins around $32,470. 

In the Venza, you’ll find 28.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 55.1 cubic feet total. In the Honda CR-V, you can access up to 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats with up to 75.8 cubic feet total. That’s room for an extra child! 

Edmunds also noted that the space for small items is limited. The storage bins feel smaller than those found in other midsized rivals. It could be difficult having enough room to place a child seat in the back conveniently, and the liftover height for loading cargo is at an awkward height. 

Is the Toyota Venza a good SUV? 

Yes, the 2021 Toyota Venza is an excellent SUV. However, families may enjoy the Toyota Sienna or Toyota Highlander to take advantage of more space and for towing items. But if you don’t need more space, then you’ll be all set with the Venza. 

It has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that’s paired with two electric motors to create 219 hp. This isn’t as much power as the Honda CR-V has to offer with its V6 engine and 280 hp, but the acceleration is perfectly fine. 

While the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds, the Venza hasn’t been tested. Plus, the Venza comes with standard all-wheel drive. AWD can cost about $1,500 to $2,000 to add, so you gain savings with it if you need to tackle snow and other challenges. 

How is the Toyota Venza interior? 

The Toyota Venza provides an immediate feeling of luxury with comfortable and supportive seats. It has a smooth and quiet ride with tons of visibility out of the large windows. Plus, the dual-zone climate control system provides comfort and airflow. 

You’ll find a 12.3-inch touchscreen in the dash that’s easy to use and comes with four USB ports. Also, it comes with tons of standard driver’s aids like adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, a hands-free liftgate, and much more.