The 2021 Toyota Venza is hitting the streets, meaning people are finally able to give this revived SUV a whirl. The Toyota Venza is receiving a lot of praise so far, with minimal negative aspects. Check out why what’s bad isn’t exactly a deal-breaker. 

2021 Toyota Venza review 

The experts at Cars.com got their hands on a new 2021 Toyota Venza to review. After being discontinued in 2015, the Venza is back as a hybrid SUV. In fact, the only model available in the U.S. includes the all-wheel-drive hybrid version. 

As the team tested the 2021 Toyota Venza, they noticed that they loved the fuel economy with averaged 39 mpg, even though the official numbers haven’t been released yet, how nice the interior is, the quiet cabin, and more. However, let’s take a gander at what they didn’t like. 

2021 Toyota Venza cargo space 

Testers noted that the Toyota Venza doesn’t come with any extra storage features. They’re referring to the fact that the Toyota Venza doesn’t have a cargo net to catch extras or built-in bins under the floor. 

The spare tire is kept under the floor, but that space is taken up by the tools needed to change the tire and the actual tire itself. This is seen as a negative because it could potentially hurt the organization capabilities for the Toyota Venza. 

However, the rear seats fold completely flat, creating tons of cargo space for large or awkwardly shaped items. There are 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 70.2 cubic feet. That’s a ton of room. 

Toyota Venza tech 

It seems like the tech in the Toyota Venza had some issues. The optional, more significant 12.3” touchscreen infotainment center has limited space. You can only use about 8” of the screen, and this is where the navigation is displayed. A large portion of the screen is taken up by climate controls and audio settings, which you can’t collapse. 

The touch-sensitive audio controls also fail to deliver haptic feedback and can be difficult to hear over the speakers. Depending on the light, the controls may be hard to see as well. Plus, the electronic brake and driving mode selector sits behind the gear selector and could be challenging to reach. 

Toyota Venza ride quality 

The 2021 Toyota Venza is noted for having a quiet interior with a smooth ride over bumps and potholes. However, the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) had some performance issues. 

It seemed to have a rubbery acceleration that only became worse upon switching to the Sport or Eco driving modes. Also, the brake pedal was noted as having a spongy feel. While it’s pointed out that the actual stopping power is there, the feel of the brakes may take getting used to. 

Also, the CVT and vague brake feeling is an issue that occurs with most hybrid vehicles, not just the Toyota Venza. Other than the issues mentioned above, the Toyota Venza received positive feedback for comfort, power, and more.