Is the Toyota Venza a small or midsize SUV?
Across mainstream auto segments, the Toyota Venza is generally classified as a midsize SUV—a midsize crossover—placed between the compact RAV4 and the three-row Highlander in Toyota’s lineup.
The distinction matters for buyers weighing interior space, cargo capacity, and ride quality. With two rows of seating for five and a focus on comfort and efficiency, the Venza offers a mid-size footprint without a third row, aligning with how most reviewers label it: midsize rather than compact.
Size in context: where the Venza sits in Toyota's lineup
The Venza shares its underpinnings with other Toyota crossovers but is designed as a two-row, five-seat model. Its overall length and silhouette are larger than the compact RAV4 and smaller than the three-row Highlander, a combination that industry observers use to classify it as midsize.
Two-row design and interior feel
With only two rows, the Venza emphasizes passenger comfort and cargo versatility for everyday use—a hallmark of midsize crossovers rather than compact models that prioritize tighter packaging.
How the market labels it
Automakers commonly classify the Venza as a midsize crossover SUV. While some marketing materials or regional listings might describe a model differently, the prevailing consensus among reviews and consumer guides places the Venza squarely in the midsize category.
Bottom line
Yes—the Toyota Venza is a midsize SUV. Its two-row, five-seat configuration, combined with an intermediate footprint, places it above compact crossovers like the RAV4 while staying below larger three-row options like the Highlander.
Summary
Across size conventions, the Toyota Venza is best regarded as a midsize crossover SUV. It offers two rows for five passengers, a balanced interior and cargo space, and a footprint that fills the gap between Toyota's compact and three-row offerings, aligning with how automotive guides categorize it today.
What is a Toyota Venza comparable to?
Cars similar to the Toyota Venza include the Lexus NX 350h, which shares a platform and many components, and the Toyota Crown Signia, which is considered a spiritual successor with a hybrid powertrain and more cargo space. Other similar vehicles are the Honda CR-V Hybrid and the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid for their hybrid technology and practicality, as well as the Nissan Murano for its similar size and features, though it is less fuel-efficient.
Closely related
- Lexus NX 350h: Mechanically identical to the Venza, with a more luxurious interior and features, though at a higher price point.
- Toyota Crown Signia: A new model considered the successor to the Venza, featuring a hybrid system and increased cargo space and a longer wheelbase.
Similar hybrid SUVs
- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: A popular hybrid SUV from Toyota, offering good fuel efficiency and practicality, though it is smaller and less luxurious than the Venza.
- Honda CR-V Hybrid: A direct competitor with a similar reputation for reliability and strong fuel economy, but with a different interior design and less power than the Venza.
Other non-hybrid alternatives
- Nissan Murano: A midsize SUV with a similar size and price range, but a less fuel-efficient V6 engine. It offers a comfortable cabin and numerous safety features.
- Chevrolet Blazer: A midsize SUV that competes with the Venza, though it is not a hybrid and has a different feature set and price point.
- Volkswagen Tiguan: A compact SUV with a focus on utility and value, but with a different driving experience and less standard equipment than the Venza.
What is the disadvantage of Venza?
We were impressed by the Venza's superb fuel economy of 37 mpg overall and appreciated some optional and unusual features such as the dimmable panoramic glass roof. But unintuitive controls and limited rear visibility proved to be definite downsides. Such contrasts define the Venza.
Why is the Toyota Venza not selling?
Market repositioning and overlap: Toyota phased out the first-generation Venza (2008--2015) because it overlapped with other Toyota models (Camry, RAV4, Highlander) and sales were modest. The Venza's mid-size crossover niche was narrow--between sedans and larger SUVs--so Toyota chose to consolidate offerings.
Is the Toyota Venza a small SUV?
A: The Toyota Venza is a midsize hybrid crossover SUV that combines luxury, efficiency, and practicality.
