Do They Still Make Toyota Venza What You Should Know

Toyota stopped producing the Venza after the 2020 model year. The original Venza was a stylish crossover SUV that Toyota discontinued to make room for newer models. Today, the name “Venza” lives on as a hybrid-only vehicle that is essentially a rebadged Highlander. If you are shopping for a Venza, you need to know which version you are looking at and what your options are.

Do they still make Toyota Venza? The short answer is no, not in the way you might remember. Toyota stopped making the original Venza after the 2020 model year. But the story does not end there. The Venza name came back in a different form, and there is a lot to unpack if you are considering buying one.

Whether you are looking for a used 2019 Venza or curious about the new hybrid version, this guide covers everything you need to know. We will walk through the history, what replaced the old Venza, and whether it still makes sense to buy one today.

Key Takeaways

• Toyota discontinued the original Venza after 2020. No new traditional Venza models have been produced since then.
• The 2021+ Venza is a hybrid crossover based on the Highlander. It shares the same platform and many features with the Highlander Hybrid.
• Used Venza models from 2009 to 2020 are still widely available. They offer good value and solid reliability.
• Parts and service remain accessible for older Venzas. You can take your Toyota to most dealerships for repairs.
• The Venza name may return in a different form in the future. Toyota has not confirmed any plans, but the brand keeps evolving its lineup.

Do They Still Make Toyota Venza? The Short Answer

Toyota does not currently produce the traditional Venza. The last year of the original Venza was 2020. This means if you want a pre-2021 Venza, you will need to look at the used car market. Toyota has not brought back the old Venza design or its gasoline-only engine setup.

The 2021 Venza that Toyota introduced is a completely different vehicle. It is a hybrid-only crossover that shares its platform with the Toyota Highlander. So when people ask “do they still make Toyota Venza,” the answer depends on which Venza they mean. The nameplate lives on, but the vehicle itself is very different from what came before.

The original Venza was a compact crossover SUV that Toyota sold from 2009 to 2020. It was known for its sleek styling, comfortable ride, and decent fuel economy. Many owners loved it as a practical daily driver. Toyota built the Venza at its Georgetown, Kentucky plant, the same facility that produces the Camry and Lexus ES.

The Venza was positioned between the RAV4 and the Highlander in Toyota’s SUV lineup. It offered a front-wheel-drive platform with an optional all-wheel-drive system. The first generation ran from 2009 to 2012, and the second generation covered 2013 through 2020. Both generations used a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine in the base model, while the SE trim offered a 3.5-liter V6.

Why Did Toyota Discontinue the Original Venza?

Toyota made the decision to stop producing the original Venza for several reasons. Sales were never as strong as the company had hoped. The crossover SUV market became more competitive, with rivals like the Honda CR-V and Nissan Rogue gaining popularity. Toyota also shifted its focus toward hybrid vehicles and newer platform designs.

By 2020, Toyota was investing heavily in electrification. The company wanted to prioritize models that aligned with its electrification strategy. The Venza name was relaunched as a hybrid-only model, which made more sense from a product planning standpoint. This allowed Toyota to retire the older platform and introduce a modern hybrid crossover under a familiar name.

The New Toyota Venza: A Hybrid-Only Crossover

Starting in 2021, Toyota brought back the Venza name with a hybrid powertrain. The new Venza is not a standalone model. It is built on the same platform as the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. This means it shares the same engine, transmission, and many core components.

The 2021+ Venza uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine paired with two electric motors. It produces a combined 243 horsepower. The system uses a continuously variable transmission and offers all-wheel drive as standard. Fuel economy is strong, with the Venza delivering around 40 miles per gallon in combined driving.

The new Venza comes in a few trim levels. The base LE trim is well-equipped for its price point. The XLE adds more comfort features, and the Limited trim brings premium touches. All trims include a suite of Toyota Safety Sense driver-assistance features as standard.

Compared to the old Venza, the new model is larger and more modern. It has a longer wheelbase and more interior space. The styling is also more refined, with a sleeker profile that fits current Toyota design language. If you are comparing the new Venza to the old one, they are really quite different vehicles.

New Venza vs. Old Venza: Key Differences

The differences between the old and new Venza are significant. Here is a quick look at what changed:

• Powertrain: The old Venza used a gasoline engine. The new Venza is a hybrid-only vehicle.
• Platform: The old Venza was based on the Camry platform. The new Venza shares the Highlander platform.
• Size: The new Venza is larger inside and out compared to the previous generation.
• Fuel Economy: The new hybrid Venza gets significantly better fuel economy than the old gasoline models.
• Technology: The new Venza features updated infotainment, safety features, and driver-assistance systems.

Should You Buy a Used Toyota Venza?

If you are shopping for a pre-owned Venza, the 2009 to 2020 model years are your options. These used Venzas offer solid value. They are comfortable, reliable, and generally affordable on the used market. Many well-maintained examples are still on the road today.

The 2013 to 2020 second-generation Venzas are the most popular choices. They have more features, better reliability, and improved fuel economy compared to the first generation. The 2016 and newer models also received a facelift with updated styling and technology.

When shopping for a used Venza, there are a few things to keep in mind. Check the maintenance history carefully. Look for records of oil changes, tire rotations, and any major repairs. A car battery test is also a smart move, especially on older models. You should also have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.

Common issues to watch for on older Venzas include wear on the CV joints, brake pad deterioration, and occasional electrical gremlins. These are not dealbreakers, but they can add to ownership costs. Overall, the Venza has a reputation for being a dependable used crossover SUV.

Toyota Venza Reliability and Common Problems

The Toyota Venza has generally been a reliable vehicle. Both generations have above-average reliability ratings. Consumer Reports and J.D. Power have given the Venza solid scores over the years. The 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine is known for being durable and low-maintenance.

Some common issues to be aware of include:

• Transmission concerns: Some owners report occasional hesitation or rough shifting, especially on higher-mileage vehicles.
• Suspension wear: The front struts and rear shocks can wear out after 60,000 to 80,000 miles.
• Corrosion: Older Venzas in colder climates may show signs of rust on the undercarriage.
• Electronics: Occasional issues with the infotainment system or power windows have been reported.

Regular maintenance goes a long way in preventing these issues. Staying on top of oil changes, fluid flushes, and scheduled services will keep a Venza running strong for many miles. If you want tips on extending the life of your vehicle, check out our guide on how to make a car last longer.

Toyota Venza vs. Similar Models

The Venza competes with several other compact and mid-size crossover SUVs. When Toyota made the Venza, it was positioned against models like the Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, and Ford Escape. The new Venza competes in a slightly different segment, closer to the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and the Mazda CX-90 Hybrid.

Here is a quick comparison of the Toyota Venza against some popular rivals:

• Toyota Venza (2021+): Hybrid-only, 243 hp, ~40 mpg combined, based on Highlander platform.
• Toyota Highlander Hybrid: Hybrid-only, 243 hp, ~36 mpg combined, larger three-row SUV.
• Honda CR-V Hybrid: Hybrid available, 204 hp, ~40 mpg combined, compact crossover.
• Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: Hybrid available, 219 hp, ~40 mpg combined, compact crossover.
• Nissan Rogue Hybrid: Hybrid available, 176 hp, ~35 mpg combined, compact crossover.

The Venza offers a nice balance of size, comfort, and fuel economy. It is not the most sporty option, but it is refined and easy to live with. The hybrid system is smooth and seamless. If you are considering a Venza, it is worth test-driving it alongside the RAV4 Hybrid and CR-V Hybrid to see which one fits your needs best.

What the Future Holds for the Toyota Venza

Toyota has not announced any plans to bring back the original Venza. The company’s focus remains on hybrid and eventually electric vehicles. The Venza nameplate is likely to continue as a hybrid crossover for the foreseeable future.

Toyota may update the Venza with new features, styling tweaks, or technology upgrades in future model years. The brand regularly refreshes its lineup to stay competitive. It is also possible that Toyota could introduce a fully electric crossover under the Venza name someday, though nothing has been confirmed.

If you are a fan of the old Venza, there is no need to worry. The used market has plenty of examples, and Toyota parts remain widely available. You can also tune up similar Toyota models at most dealerships to keep your Venza running at its best. Toyota’s commitment to quality means that even older models receive strong support.

Final Thoughts on the Toyota Venza

So do they still make Toyota Venza? Yes and no. Toyota does not make the old Venza anymore, but the Venza name continues in a new hybrid form. The 2021+ Venza is a capable and efficient hybrid crossover that makes sense for many buyers. The used market also offers great value on pre-2021 models.

Whether you choose a used 2019 Venza or a new 2024 Venza, you are getting a solid Toyota vehicle. The brand’s reputation for reliability holds strong across both generations. The Venza may not be the most popular Toyota SUV, but it is a smart choice for those who value comfort, efficiency, and style.

If you are still on the fence, take the time to test drive both the old and new Venza. See which one feels right for your lifestyle. Talk to a local mechanic about long-term ownership costs. And remember that whichever Venza you choose, proper maintenance will keep it running strong for years to come.

The Toyota Venza may have changed over the years, but its core appeal remains the same. It is a comfortable, practical, and dependable crossover SUV that fits well into Toyota’s lineup. Do your research, shop around, and you will find the right Venza for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Toyota Venza still in production?

The original Venza was discontinued after 2020. Toyota currently produces the new Venza as a hybrid-only crossover based on the Highlander platform. The name is still active, but the vehicle is very different from the old one.

Can you still buy a new Toyota Venza?

Yes, you can buy a new 2021 or newer Venza from Toyota dealerships. It is a hybrid crossover with all-wheel drive standard. The new Venza replaced the old gasoline-powered model and offers strong fuel economy and modern features.

What year did Toyota stop making the Venza?

Toyota stopped making the original Venza after the 2020 model year. The last traditional Venza rolled off the production line in 2020. The Venza name returned in 2021 as a hybrid model.

Is the new Venza worth buying over the old one?

The new Venza offers better fuel economy, more modern technology, and a hybrid powertrain. The old Venza may appeal to those who prefer a gasoline engine and a more compact size. Both have their merits depending on your needs and preferences.

Are Toyota Venza parts easy to find for older models?

Yes, Toyota Venza parts are widely available for the 2009 to 2020 model years. Toyota dealerships and aftermarket suppliers carry most components. Common wear items like brakes, filters, and suspension parts are easy to source.

How does the Toyota Venza compare to the RAV4 Hybrid?

The Venza is based on a larger platform than the RAV4 and offers a more premium feel. The RAV4 Hybrid is a compact crossover with slightly less interior space. The Venza has a smoother ride and more refined styling, while the RAV4 offers better value and more trim options.