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Toyota Venza
SUV · Gas · 13 versions · owner report
Ranked #6 of 22 used midsize SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2024
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is strongly positive for both generations, though with distinct character and known issues.
10 problems reported (4 recurrent, 6 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentPanoramic sunroof leaks
Requires resealing of silicone, a known issue for models produced 2009 through mid-2012.
- Recurrent4-cylinder engine oil consumption
Becomes noticeable in higher mileage vehicles (e.g., after 120,000 miles / 193,000 km), potentially requiring piston ring replacement.
- RecurrentAll-touch infotainment system
Lack of physical knobs and buttons for climate and audio controls is criticized as less intuitive while driving.
+ 7 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentLimited cargo space
Cargo capacity is noted as relatively small for the vehicle's exterior size.
- IsolatedRough ride on 20-inch wheels
Stock wheel and tire combination results in a ride quality less smooth than expected.
- IsolatedSpark plug issue
Isolated mention of spark plugs potentially coming loose or misfiring after hitting bumps, noted as a concern by a seller.
- IsolatedTransmission shifting concerns
Isolated report of "herky-jerky" upshifts and downshifts on a 2015 model with 99,000 miles.
- IsolatedHeadlight assembly electrical failures
A cracked or faulty headlight assembly can cause a cascade of electrical malfunctions including disabled traction control, non-functional wipers, erroneous gauge readings, and infotainment failures. Repair is expensive (~$1,300 USD).
- IsolatedPoor road holding in wet conditions
Isolated owner report of a "drifting" or insecure feeling when cornering or changing lanes, especially in heavy rain.
- IsolatedCamera alignment/calibration
Isolated mention of a misaligned camera view on the surround-view system.
The version owners recommend
For the first generation (2009-2015), the V6 model is overwhelmingly recommended to avoid the oil consumption issues associated with aging 4-cylinder engines and for its superior driving feel. For the second generation (2021-2024), the Limited trim is frequently mentioned as the preferred version for maximizing luxury features, including the head-up display (HUD) and panoramic "Stargaze" roof, though this roof is also noted as a cool gimmick rather than a necessity.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Lexus RX, Lexus NX, Toyota RAV4 (and RAV4 Hybrid/Prime), Toyota Highlander and Honda CR-V (and CR-V Hybrid).
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is strongly positive for both generations, though with distinct character and known issues. The first-generation (2009-2015) Venza is consistently praised as a "poor man's Lexus," offering a rock-solid, comfortable, and well-equipped vehicle with standard features like leather seats, heated seats, acoustic glass, and sunroofs. The V6 engine is highly recommended over the 4-cylinder due to better performance and to avoid oil consumption issues in older 4-cylinder models. Long-term reliability is a major highlight, with owners reporting trouble-free operation up to 300,000 km. The second-generation (2021-2024) hybrid Venza receives widespread acclaim for its luxury-like ride quality, quiet cabin, excellent real-world fuel economy (owners report 40-44 MPG), and refined hybrid drivetrain. It is frequently described as being on-par with Lexus in terms of comfort and quietness. Criticisms are generation-specific: for the first-gen, they include known sunroof leaks, 4-cylinder oil consumption, and a rough ride on stock 20-inch wheels; for the second-gen, they focus on infotainment ergonomics, relatively small cargo space, and isolated but significant electrical issues tied to the headlight assemblies.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a premium, style-focused alternative to mainstream compact SUVs. Compared to the Toyota RAV4, the Venza is viewed as more stylish, upscale, and comfortable, with a quieter cabin and more premium interior materials, but sacrifices some cargo space and is often pricier. It is frequently compared to the Lexus NX and RX, seen as offering similar luxury and comfort at a lower price point, effectively bridging the gap between Toyota and Lexus. Versus the Honda CR-V Hybrid, the Venza is noted for better highway MPG, a more premium interior, and standard features like a power liftgate and spare tire, though the CR-V may offer more rear-seat room and a quieter cabin with noise-canceling tech. The Mazda CX-5 is acknowledged as a sportier, more engaging drive.
Recommended configurations
For the first generation: V6 engine is strongly recommended. Be prepared to address sunroof seal maintenance proactively. Use snow tires for winter driving if equipped with all-season tires on stock 20-inch wheels. For the second generation: All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard on the hybrid system. Consider screen protectors for the touchscreen. Be cautious with window tinting due to a potential factory UV coating on some glass that can be scratched during tint application. Use Normal or Sport mode for better throttle response over Eco mode, which is described as making the vehicle feel "like a dog."
General recommendations
First-generation (2009-2015): An excellent choice for a reliable, comfortable, and feature-rich used vehicle. Prioritize a V6 model with a good maintenance history. Before purchase, inspect for sunroof leak history and check for oil consumption on 4-cylinder models. DIY resealing of the panoramic sunroof is a common and cost-effective owner repair. Parts availability is not cited as a widespread concern in owner discussions, with many noting shared components with other Toyota models. Second-generation (2021-2024): Highly recommended for buyers seeking a quiet, fuel-efficient, and premium-feeling hybrid SUV. Ideal for commuters and those prioritizing comfort and efficiency over sporty handling or maximum cargo space. Test drive to assess personal comfort with the all-touch infotainment interface. Be aware of potential, though rare, electrical issues linked to the headlight assemblies. Real-world fuel economy excels in moderate climates but will decrease in very cold weather as the hybrid system relies on the engine for heat.
Remarks
Owner feedback clearly separates the two distinct generations of the Venza. The first generation is valued for its straightforward, reliable powertrains (especially the V6) and high feature content, with its main flaws (sunroof leaks, 4-cylinder oil use) being well-documented and often manageable. The second generation represents a significant shift to a dedicated hybrid luxury-crossover, sharing its platform and powertrain with the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid but tuned for greater refinement and style. The severe but isolated headlight-related electrical faults in the newer generation suggest a potential design or component vulnerability that contrasts sharply with the otherwise praised reliability. Analysis based on approximately 45 substantive owner discussions and inquiries.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2009. Years to avoid: 2021, 2009Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Toyota Venza years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 25 | 3 | unknown or other |
| 2023 | 21 | 3 | forward collision avoidance |
| 2022 | 42 | 1 | visibility/wiper |
| 2021 | 188 | 2 | visibility/wiper |
| 2015 | 27 | 1 | unknown or other |
| 2014 | 31 | 1 | air bags |
| 2013 | 59 | 4 | air bags |
| 2012 | 25 | 4 | air bags |
| 2011 | 59 | 6 | electrical system |
| 2010 | 79 | 9 | electrical system |
| 2009 | 173 | 8 | vehicle speed control |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices42 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2024 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 24V548000
Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain Toyota 2023 GR Supra, 2024 4 Runner, Corolla, Grand Highlander, Grand Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Tacoma, Tacoma Hybrid, 2023-2024 BZ4X, Corolla Cross Hybrid, GR Corolla, GR86, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius Prime, Sequoia Hybrid, Tundra, Tundra Hybrid, Venza Hybrid, 2023-2025 Crown, and 2025 Camry Hybrid vehicles equipped with GST accessories. The load carrying capacity modification label may display inaccurate added weight values. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2024 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 25V744000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may cause the rearview camera to freeze or display a blank screen when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2024 · electrical system: instrument cluster/panelcampaign 25V595000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Toyota Venza, 2023-2025 RAV4 Prime, RAV4, Highlander, GR Corolla, Crown, 2024-2025 Lexus TX, LS, Toyota Tacoma, Grand Highlander, and 2025 Lexus RX, Toyota Crown Signia, Camry, RAV 4 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), and 4 Runner vehicles. Due to an error in the instrument panel software at vehicle startup, the instrument panel may fail to display vehicle speed, brake system, and tire pressure warning lights.
2023 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 24V548000
Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain Toyota 2023 GR Supra, 2024 4 Runner, Corolla, Grand Highlander, Grand Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Tacoma, Tacoma Hybrid, 2023-2024 BZ4X, Corolla Cross Hybrid, GR Corolla, GR86, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius Prime, Sequoia Hybrid, Tundra, Tundra Hybrid, Venza Hybrid, 2023-2025 Crown, and 2025 Camry Hybrid vehicles equipped with GST accessories. The load carrying capacity modification label may display inaccurate added weight values. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2023 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 25V744000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may cause the rearview camera to freeze or display a blank screen when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2023 · electrical system: instrument cluster/panelcampaign 25V595000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Toyota Venza, 2023-2025 RAV4 Prime, RAV4, Highlander, GR Corolla, Crown, 2024-2025 Lexus TX, LS, Toyota Tacoma, Grand Highlander, and 2025 Lexus RX, Toyota Crown Signia, Camry, RAV 4 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), and 4 Runner vehicles. Due to an error in the instrument panel software at vehicle startup, the instrument panel may fail to display vehicle speed, brake system, and tire pressure warning lights.
2022 · electronic stability control (esc):control module:softwarecampaign 22V239000
Toyota Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022 Lexus LX 600, Lexus NX 350h, Lexus NX 450h+, Toytoa RAV4 Hybrid, 2021-2022 Lexus LS 500h, Toyota Mirai, RAV4 PRIME, Sienna, Venza, and 2020-2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vehicles. The Skid Control ECU software may not turn on the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system when the vehicle is restarted after the driver has disabled the VSC system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
2021 · exterior lighting:turn signal:bulbscampaign 22V033000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2021 Venza Hybrid vehicles. Water may enter the rear turn signal LED lights, allowing condensation to form on the circuit board, and causing a short circuit. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2021 · electronic stability control (esc):control module:softwarecampaign 22V239000
Toyota Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022 Lexus LX 600, Lexus NX 350h, Lexus NX 450h+, Toytoa RAV4 Hybrid, 2021-2022 Lexus LS 500h, Toyota Mirai, RAV4 PRIME, Sienna, Venza, and 2020-2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vehicles. The Skid Control ECU software may not turn on the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system when the vehicle is restarted after the driver has disabled the VSC system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
2015 · air bags:side/window:curtaincampaign 21V257000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2009-2015 Venza vehicles. The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) wiring may become damaged with regular use of the driver-side door.
2014 · air bags:side/window:curtaincampaign 21V257000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2009-2015 Venza vehicles. The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) wiring may become damaged with regular use of the driver-side door.
2013 · air bags:frontal:sensor/control module-inactivecampaign 13V014000
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.
2013 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 13V123000
Southeast Toyota is recalling certain model year 2008 and 2010-2013 Toyota Tundra, 2010-2012 Rav4, 2012 Toyota Sequoia, 2010-2011 Toyota Corolla, 2010-2011 Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2010-2013 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2010-2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser, 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser, 2010-2013 Toyota Venza, 2010-2011 Toyota 4Runner, 2010-2013 Toyota Tacoma, 2011-2012 Toyota Sienna, 2012 Toyota Prius, 2013 Scion FR-S, 2011 Scion XD, 2011 Scion XB, and 2012 Scion TC vehicles. These vehicles were sold with labels that were outside the allowable one percent of accuracy of actual weight added. Thus, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) Number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2013 · electrical systemcampaign 13V442000
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Avalon, Avalon HV, Venza, Camry, and Camry HV vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the drain hose for the air conditioning condenser may become clogged causing water to accumulate at the bottom of the air conditioning condenser unit housing. The accumulated water may then leak through a seam in the housing onto the air bag control module potentially resulting in a short circuit of the module.
2013 · air bags:side/window:curtaincampaign 21V257000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2009-2015 Venza vehicles. The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) wiring may become damaged with regular use of the driver-side door.
27 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: XU80
2.5 Hybrid E-Four
Hybrid · 219 hp · AWD · automatic (CVT)
Built 2020–2026