Venza Makes a Comeback

Reviving the Venza

There’s some buzz making waves over in Japan about Toyota potentially bringing back the Venza to the U.S. market, possibly by 2027. The next-gen Harrier, the Venza’s Japanese counterpart, seems to be in development with its headline feature being a shift towards a more coupe-like SUV style. This design tweak will help it stand out from the more traditionally-styled RAV4.

The Venza’s Comeback

Originally launched in 2020, the second-generation Venza felt like a Lexus inside a Toyota’s body, bridging the gap between compact and midsize SUVs. After its discontinuation in the U.S. lineup and the arrival of the Toyota Crown Signia, some thought that might be the end for the Venza here. However, the Harrier continues to evolve in Japan, hinting that we might not have seen the last of the Venza stateside.

Sleeker, More Refined

Expect a more elegant silhouette in the next-gen Venza. There are talks of a longer wheelbase—about 109.1 inches—giving it a longer stance by 3.1 inches from the current version. Its design would likely have a car-like roof height improved from the current dimensions, standing at around 61 inches, emphasizing the coupe SUV aesthetic.

Engine and Performance

Being part of Toyota’s efficient lineup, it’s predicted to maintain the TNGA-K platform, the same that’s featured across a solid roster of Toyota and Lexus models. The Japanese market might see a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, offered with hybrid and plug-in hybrid options that focus on efficiency and partly electrified driving.

For the Venza’s potential outing in the U.S., Toyota could stick with a hybrid-only setup, mirroring the RAV4’s current offerings. Expect horsepower somewhere around 236 hp in front-wheel-drive and potentially up to 320 hp in all-wheel-drive configurations.

Driving Experience

Given its Lexus-like aspirations and Toyota DNA, driving the potential new Venza should feel like a blend of luxury and smooth handling wrapped in Toyota’s famed reliability. Comparatively, while the RAV4 is known for its rugged nature, the Venza would probably lean towards refined comfort, aiming more at city streets and highways over dirt paths and rugged terrain. Think of it as Toyota’s take at mixing the sporty vibes of a BMW X4 with the quality and smoothness folks expect from a mass-market Toyota.

The road to 2027 could unveil more surprises, and with this anticipated mix of style, tech, and efficiency, the new Venza might just find its sweet spot in the hearts of American SUV enthusiasts.