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Possible 2021 Toyota Venza Powertrain Scenarios

Expect a 2021 Venza by the end of the year. Let’s explore some potential powertrain options.

One of the most beloved Toyota models ever produced was the Venza. It was spacious and fun to drive, with many standard features making it an easy choice for many consumers.

When the Venza makes its return by the end of the 2020 calendar year, this time as a 2021 model, it will reach dealerships with an all-new powertrain. But what will it be?

Now, I say to expect the new Venza by the end of the year. However, we do need to follow current events around the world to see if the proposed timeline still follows to form. Let’s hope so.

What the Venza used to be

Those of us who spent any time around the Toyota Venza from 2009 until 2015 know how practical and fun these were. In fact, many people are still happily driving around in their Venzas with pride.

Buyers were given the choice of two different engine sizes: a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder and a 3.5-liter V6. This variety allowed consumers to decide on their perfect Venza based on whether they preferred more power or better fuel efficiency.

Toyota Venza interior beige color

From there, you could also pick between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.

What to expect from 2021 Toyota Venza

The 2021 Venza will officially glide into dealerships across the country with only one power plant option. Expect the all-new Venza to come as a hybrid only. This will be the only choice.

And it makes sense, too.

People are placing more importance on gas mileage ratings more and more each year, which will make a 2021 Toyota Venza an attractive possibility.

The question is, what engine and transmission should we expect?

First off, since it will be manufactured only in hybrid form, I would imagine we can expect an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT). This is what Toyota uses for its hybrid models such as the Corolla Hybrid LE, Prius Prime, Highlander Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid.

Horsepower and torque numbers, as well as confirmed engine choice, have not been released by Toyota. So we must speculate.

A new 2021 Venza will be larger than the current RAV4 but smaller than a Highlander. It will have two rows of seating and should seat five people.

RAV4 Hybrid utilizes a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine combined with electric motors that produces 219 net hybrid horsepower. Highlander Hybrid also features a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and electric motors. This delivers 243 total horsepower.

For now, I think we can loosely assume Venza will match up a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, along with at least two electric motors, and a smooth and efficient CVT.

Based on this, could we see figures somewhere in the 220hp to 240hp? This is extrapolated guesswork on my part, but it makes for interesting conversation until we know more.

Monkey wrench: Would it also be interesting to see Venza also offer a plug-in alternative, similar to 2021 RAV4 Prime or 2020 Prius Prime? I have heard no speculation or rumors about this specific power plant, but again, for now we must wonder.

Time for your thoughts on 2021 Toyota Venza

What do you think about Venza? Have you owned or currently owned one? If so, how does it drive and how do you like it?

Will you consider the 2021 Venza when it arrives?

Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story when I show you all 8 colors for the 2020 Toyota Highlander. What is your favorite one?

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Comments

Steve (not verified)    March 31, 2020 - 9:40PM

I currently have a 2011 Venza 6cyl AWD and love it. I bought it used after my 13 Crosstrek’s (that I bought new) cvt failed twice on me. I replaced the first cvt after 76k miles and then the second one went about 65ish thousand miles. So I’m not a big fan of cvt’s and the news of the 2021 Venza getting one will keep me from buying it. I’ll just stick with my 2011 instead.

Kristy Warren (not verified)    April 2, 2020 - 6:26AM

I currently have a 2011 Venza! I considered buying a Highlander Hybrid a month ago, but I could not pull the trigger, because I am anticipating the NEW VENZA!

Paul (not verified)    April 2, 2020 - 7:53PM

Well... Toyota would be wise to make the Canadian Version Hybrid with a plug-in on it simply because there are Federal Rebates ($3500-$5000...I believe?) which would make this even more attractive and increase the probability of attracting new Toyota buyers from competitor's lots. My guess.. a Lighter weight and the same power train as the Highlander. I'd prefer a real transmission though... cvt a drawback imo but not necessarily a deal-breaker.

Larrell Thomas (not verified)    April 14, 2020 - 11:20AM

I have a 2011 V6 Venza, bought new and it is the best car I have ever owned. Please keep the original big V6 engine. I love the power it has. it is one of the best performing SUVs todate. I wouldn't not want a wimp vehicle. Also keep the twin exhaust.

Robert Palm Jr (not verified)    April 14, 2020 - 2:38PM

I've had 2 Venzas a 2009 and a 2013 that I'm still driving. Car has 125,000 and drives like new. The fit and finish on this car is still amazing after 7 years. I also have tried to replace it but can't find anything close. A new Venza would be found it my garage!!!

Stan (not verified)    April 23, 2020 - 6:08AM

I own a 2017 Highlander (too big for me and tired of SUVs). Await the 2021 Venza. Especially, enjoy the Highlander dashboard shelf and hope Venza will continue the feature. Not interested in AWD, possibly will not buy Venza if mandatory.

Martica Burns (not verified)    May 5, 2020 - 4:44PM

I was shopping for a new SUV in late January. Rav4 is too small and Highlander is too big. I am driving a 2011 Venza which I LOVE. I was so excited to hear it is coming back for 2021. I will be at the dealer the day it is available!

Leonard Packer (not verified)    May 16, 2020 - 9:44PM

I own 2010 V6 AWD Venza and it's by far the best car I ever had. Runs like a dream with 145k mile on it. Don't think that I'll be interested in the hybrid model. With the gas being less than $2/gallon there is no point in spending extra money. It takes you literally forever to recoup an extra cost. Hybrids are way more expensive and complicated to fix when the car gets older. The bottom line if the old fashion V6 is not available I think then I'll pass on the 2021 model.

Judy Hudson (not verified)    May 27, 2020 - 2:14PM

I purchased a 2009 V6 AWD Venza and continue to drive it with about 85,000 miles on it. It still looks brand new. I'm over the moon about the reincarnation of the Venza. This may be the last car that I purchase in my lifetime, so I'm looking for a luxury crossover/SUV. Each time I filled out a survey after a routine maintenance appointment, I explained that I would probably not purchase another Toyota. I am looking forward to seeing this new model in person at my local dealership this summer. Unfortunately, the current health crisis may preempt my purchase till 2021.

Kathy Harris (not verified)    July 6, 2020 - 8:19AM

I have a 2013 Venza bought it used in2016. I have been impressed. I’ve had absolutely no problems with 117k miles. I’m excited to hear Toyota is coming back out with a Venza again. The new standard engine not so sure of.