What are the cons of Toyota Venza?

The Toyota Venza is praised for its efficiency and refined ride, but it has several notable downsides buyers should weigh. It’s a hybrid-only five-seat crossover with a focus on comfort, yet it comes with a higher price tag, limited cargo space, and a powertrain that isn’t aimed at performance enthusiasts.

The following analysis breaks down the principal drawbacks across performance, practicality, technology, and value, helping prospective buyers assess whether the Venza fits their needs and priorities.

Performance and efficiency drawbacks

Here is a concise look at how the Venza’s powertrain and ride may disappoint some drivers in everyday use.

• Hybrid-only powertrain: There is no gasoline-only or plug-in option, limiting choices for buyers who want more power or EV capability.


• Moderate acceleration: The hybrid setup feels adequate for routine driving but isn’t quick, and the CVT can become vocal during brisk acceleration.


• Ride bias: The Venza emphasizes a smooth, comfortable ride over sporty handling, which may disappoint drivers seeking dynamic driving dynamics.


• Efficiency trade-offs: All-wheel drive is common on many trims, adding weight that can slightly lower highway efficiency compared with front-drive configurations.

In sum, the Venza excels in efficiency and comfort but sacrifices powertrain variety and sporty driving feel for those who crave more engine responsiveness or a plug-in option.

Interior and cargo practicality drawbacks

As a stylish, family-oriented crossover, the Venza trades some practicality for its design language and cabin vibe.

• Limited cargo space: The rear cargo area is smaller than many rivals, which can constrain weekend trips or carrying larger items.


• Sloping roof impacts usability: The sleek roofline reduces cargo height and can curb rear headroom for taller passengers.


• No third-row seating: The Venza seats five, which may be a drawback for buyers needing extra seating flexibility found in some competitors.


• Interior storage and organization: There are fewer large storage compartments and clever cargo solutions compared with some rivals.

Taken together, these traits make the Venza feel less versatile for families or active users who prioritize maximum cargo and seating flexibility.

Technology, infotainment, and usability drawbacks

The Venza’s modern tech package draws praise for its scale and safety features, yet some buyers run into usability barriers.

• Infotainment quirks: The dual-screen layout can be slow to respond, with menus that require extra taps to reach desired functions.


• Readability and controls: The screens can be hard to read at certain angles or distances, and some controls are not as intuitive as rivals’ setups.


• Voice and mobile integration: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, but voice recognition and some advanced features may not feel as seamless as in competing systems.


• Limited premium options: Higher trims add features, but overall interior materials and customization options may pale next to some luxury rivals.

For many buyers, the tech package is solid and practical, but usability quirks can detract from an otherwise modern cabin experience.

Pricing, value, and ownership considerations

Cost and perceived value are constant themes in reviews of the Venza, where price can be a decisive factor for many shoppers.

• Higher starting price: The Venza sits at a premium compared with some midsize hybrids that offer similar space and capability.


• Hybrids-only limitation: The absence of a non-hybrid or plug-in variant narrows options for buyers who want more power or EV range without sacrificing efficiency.


• Incentives and resale nuance: Toyota’s reliability supports strong resale, but the Venza’s relative market popularity can influence incentives and resale timing compared with more mainstream crossovers.


• Option pricing: To reach desirable content, some trims require pricey option packages, pushing total cost higher than expected.

Overall, the Venza delivers efficient, comfortable transportation at a premium, which may deter buyers seeking the best value or plug-in versatility in this segment.

Summary

The Toyota Venza stands out for its fuel efficiency, refined ride, and strong safety tech, but its downsides include a higher price for relatively modest cargo space, a hybrid-only powertrain without a plug-in option, and some infotainment and usability quirks. For shoppers prioritizing comfort and efficiency over maximum practicality and EV capability, the Venza remains a compelling choice; for those who need more cargo room, sportier performance, or plug-in flexibility, rival models may be better suited.

Is the Toyota Venza a reliable car to buy?

Super reliable and easy to drive and haul kids and dogs. Waiting for the 2021 Sienna as a potential replacement (only for more interior space) otherwise this car is fabulous and still a head turner! So happy to hear Toyota is relaunching the Venza!

What year of Toyota Venza to avoid?

The first-generation 2021 Toyota Venza is often cited as the model year to avoid due to a higher number of reported issues, including problems with the rear hatch struts, windshield cracking, and alignment. While later models like 2022-2024 have had fewer complaints, the 2021 model's problems stem from it being the first year of the second generation. 
This video discusses some common problems with the Toyota Venza: 1mMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Jan 5, 2023
First-generation Toyota Venza

• The first generation ran from 2009 to 2015, and while some sources suggest avoiding the first year (2009), the first generation overall may have more issues to consider before buying. 

Second-generation Toyota Venza

• Avoid 2021: This year had the most problems reported by owners, according to sources like this Facebook post. 
• Common issues with the 2021 model:
  • Rear hatch struts needing replacement 
  • Windshield cracking 
  • Center armrest breaking 
  • Tires constantly being out of alignment 
• For later models:
  • While the 2022-2024 models are generally considered more reliable, owners have still reported some issues, such as noises/leaks, infotainment system glitches, and a recalled climate control system on the 2024 model. 

This video discusses bad news for Toyota Venza owners: 58sTech AddictsYouTube · Nov 25, 2022

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.

What are the disadvantages of Toyota Venza?

Common Toyota Venza Problems
Interior accessories - The sunroof, moonroof, and broken interior components are the biggest faults with the inside of the Toyota Venza. Steering troubles - Some customers reported rattling during steering. Others said the car drifted and whined as they turned.