My Thoughts Exactly: 2023 Toyota Venza

A couple of years ago, I enjoyed my turn in the then-new Toyota Venza. This hybrid SUV definitely surprised me with its refinement, luxury, smoothness, and sharp styling. 

Having never driven the previous iteration of the Venza, I completely forgot that even existed. Well, actually, I still see them on the road. Yet, I was told that I wasn’t missing much. 

The immediate effect of this current Venza certainly showed how Toyota can make a present vehicle with forward thinking without clobbering the brain with future technology and design. It was contemporary, user friendly, and attractive to drive. 

I wanted a second helping of this smooth hybrid SUV. Sure enough, another one arrived for a special mission. 

What you’re about to read is my experience with the 2023 Toyota Venza XLE Nightshade Edition. Not the desirable Limited model – just a half-step down on the model line. 

Toyota created the Nightshade Edition across some of its lineup to feed into the customer want of “murdered out” rides full of darkened chrome and black finishes. Black trim is in vogue right now and customers are lapping them up. 

I have mixed feelings about this trend of offering models with blacked-out trim, badges, and wheels. I get that it is what customers want. It’s not for everyone, but, hey, why not sport it just the same. 

It would’ve easier to debadge a vehicle. BMW and Mercedes-Benz used to offer that option in certain markets. However, not everyone wish to do that these days, unless they’re hardcore enthusiasts who think its cool letting everyone guess what kind of vehicle they drive. 

Offering a vehicle with blacked-out badges should take in consideration the exterior color. I had a couple of vehicles that had blacked out badges in either black or a dark gray. While they were cool looking, they’re a pain to photograph in some situations. 

Which is why it worked with the red color of this Venza. Granted, some badges should’ve been left in a chrome finish. I get it. You want to make your vehicle too cool for daily use. 

So, yes, I would give a pass for the Venza’s Nightshade package. Simply because it is a lovely vehicle to drive. 

Even if you debadge everything, the Venza delivers on a contemporary shape with some sharp details – a nod to its Lexus cousins. The cabin is accessible, including the wide opening doors and the large liftgate for the cargo area. The Venza is a handsome number that should be considered when shopping for an SUV in its size. 

The exterior of the Venza is handsome. Does the Nightshade package change anything about it? Yes. Opinions vary from here.

Then, you step inside. The XLE trim is lovely and offers plenty of amenities for everyone. The SofTex upholstery is soft, supple, and comfortable. As are the front seats. Rear seat room is for adults, as well as for children. The cargo space is accommodating. There is nothing new to add here. 

If you’re looking for a change somewhere, Toyota now employs USB-C connections for devices front and back. Other than that, the cabin is a treat. You have two big analog dials flanking a digital information screen in the instrument binnacle. The 12.3-inch touchscreen houses all of the infotainment you need. Sound is piped through a six-speaker system. The center console is clean, crowned with the chunky shifter for the continuously variable transmission. 

Moving underneath the hood, you get an uprated hybrid driveline featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motor generators. Combined, that driveline puts out 219 horsepower. Every Venza gets the aforementioned CVT and all-wheel drive. 

In all, the Venza’s hybrid driveline is smooth and effortless. It does accelerate well on passing maneuvers. However, it is designed for efficiency. I observed an average of 36.8 MPG in my care with this XLT Nightshade tester.  

The smoothness continues onto the chassis. If there is a reason to pick the Venza, it would be its ride quality. This is the kind of vehicle where you drive for miles and not worry about feedback from rougher surfaces. 

Handling is on the soft side, but there is plenty of control when dealing with evasive maneuvers. The steering system is quite good offering decent feedback and a good turning radius. On-center feel is controlled and solid. Brake pedal feel is solid with good stopping power. Those stops are sure to the point in normal and panic situations. 

The 2023 Toyota Venza lineup starts at $34,620 with a choice of four trims, including the XLE Nightshade Edition. The sticker price on this tester came to $42,349. 

Overall, the Toyota Venza exudes confidence. Not a lot of vehicles can say that. In particular, SUVs. 

That’s the thing: In an SUV-centered marketplace, you have to deliver beyond expectations. It does not have to be luxurious or sporty, but something you and your family – or yourself – can enjoy for a very long time. 

Whether you like the blacked-out trim or not, give the Toyota Venza a try. You will certainly love it! 

DISCLAIMER: Vehicle provided by Toyota Motor North America

All photos by Randy Stern