Is the Toyota Venza the same as the Lexus RX350?
The Toyota Venza and the Lexus RX350 are two popular vehicles that often spark curiosity among car enthusiasts and potential buyers alike. While they share some similarities, they are distinct models with different characteristics, target audiences, and price points. In this article, we will explore the key differences and similarities between these two vehicles to help you understand their unique offerings.
Overview of the Toyota Venza
The Toyota Venza is a midsize crossover SUV that was reintroduced in 2020 after a brief hiatus. It is designed to provide a comfortable ride with a focus on practicality and efficiency. The Venza features a sleek, modern design and is equipped with a hybrid powertrain, making it an eco-friendly choice for consumers.
Overview of the Lexus RX350
The Lexus RX350, on the other hand, is a luxury midsize SUV that has been a staple in the Lexus lineup for many years. Known for its upscale interior, advanced technology, and smooth performance, the RX350 caters to a more premium market. It offers a range of powerful engine options and a host of luxury features that enhance the driving experience.
Key Similarities
- Platform: Both vehicles are built on the same platform, which means they share some structural components and engineering.
- Hybrid Options: Both the Venza and RX350 offer hybrid variants, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
- Safety Features: Both models come equipped with advanced safety technologies, including Toyota's Safety Sense and Lexus Safety System, ensuring a high level of protection for occupants.
Key Differences
- Luxury vs. Practicality: The RX350 is positioned as a luxury vehicle, offering premium materials and features, while the Venza focuses on practicality and value.
- Price Point: The Lexus RX350 typically comes with a higher price tag due to its luxury branding and features, whereas the Venza is more budget-friendly.
- Performance: The RX350 offers more powerful engine options and a sportier driving experience compared to the Venza's hybrid focus on efficiency.
Conclusion
In summary, while the Toyota Venza and Lexus RX350 share some foundational elements, they cater to different markets and consumer needs. The Venza is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient crossover, while the RX350 appeals to buyers looking for luxury and performance. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision based on your preferences and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Toyota discontinue the Venza?
Toyota stopped selling the Venza (Confession: I liked the vehicle) due to poor sales. The company could never decide if it was a car, an SUV or a hybrid. The marketing for the vehicle demonstrated this confusion and the sluggish sales were a result.
What is the Toyota Venza equivalent to?
Toyota RAV4
Cars similar to 2024 Toyota Venza. The Venza's stablemate, the Toyota RAV4, is perhaps its closest competitor. The Venza's stablemate, the Toyota RAV4, is perhaps its closest competitor. It's more spacious inside, is available as a hybrid, and truly shines in Prime plug-in hybrid form with 42 miles of electric range.
What Lexus is the Venza based on?
The first-generation Venza was based on the XV40 series Camry platform and marketed between 2008 and 2017 — and shared the platform with the AL10 series Lexus RX. The second-generation model is a rebadged Japanese-market XU80 series Harrier and has been sold since September 2020.
What is the Toyota equivalent of the Lexus RX 350?
2024 Toyota Highlander LE
In fact, the 2024 Lexus RX 350 and 2024 Toyota Highlander LE share the same EPA-estimated MPG ratings. The Lexus RX 350 returns up to an EPA-estimated 22/29/25 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),1 which is the same as the Toyota Highlander base trim. However, the Lexus RX 350 is the more luxurious and powerful SUV.
What cars compare to the Lexus RX 350?
Lexus RX 350 vs. the competition
| Model | Starting price range | Maximum seating capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 Acura MDX | $49,195 to $72,700 | 7 seats |
| 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class | $57,200 to $81,200 | 7 seats |
| 2022 BMW X5 | $61,595 to $84,095 | 7 seats |
| 2023 Audi Q7 | $58,695 to $95,590 | 5 seats |
Are Venza and RX350 the same?
Is Toyota Venza the same as Lexus RX? No, there are many differences between the Toyota Venza and Lexus RX including more horsepower on the RX, different powertrain options, and more luxury features standard.
What car replaced the Toyota Venza?
2025 Crown Signia
Toyota has unveiled the all-new 2025 Crown Signia. This sleek and sophisticated hybrid SUV is set to replace the discontinued Toyota Venza. The Crown Signia offers drivers a premium vehicle with cutting-edge technology, refined styling, and exceptional performance.
What Toyota platform is the Lexus RX built on?
Toyota K platform
Second generation (XU30; 2003)
| Second generation | |
|---|---|
| Assembly | Japan: Miyawaka, Fukuoka (TMK) Canada: Cambridge, Ontario (TMMC) |
| Designer | Hiroshi Suzuki and Takumi Ichikawa |
| Body and chassis | |
| Platform | Toyota K platform |
Why isn't Toyota Venza popular?
The current Venza is often critiqued for its poor cargo capacity compared to competitors, lacking SUV features/options like roof rails or any usable towing capability, but it also offers a claimed best-in-class EPA efficiency rating of 39 MPG combined.
What platform is the Lexus RX350 built on?
Fourth generation (AL20; 2015)
| Fourth generation | |
|---|---|
| Platform | Toyota K platform |
| Related | Lexus ES (XV60) Toyota Highlander/Kluger (XU50) |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | Gasoline: 2.0 L 8AR-FTS turbo I4 (RX 200t/300) 3.5 L 2GR-FKS V6 (RX 350) Gasoline hybrid: 3.5 L 2GR-FXS V6 (RX 450h) |
