2023 Toyota Venza Nightshade Edition Review

The new 2023 Toyota Venza will receive a significant upgrade over the previous generation. Probably, the most exciting news is that Toyota will introduce a new Nightshade Edition. Like the other Toyota models that already received the same package, the Venza will trade off the conventional chrome trims with a dark theme.

Based on the mid-spec XLE trim, the new Nightshade model also features the same overall styling, plus a few cosmetic enhancements, which makes it more unique. Underneath the bonnet, the new crossover derives its power from a proven 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine and three electric motors which together produce 219 horsepower. All-wheel drive is standard.

2023 Toyota Venza side

2023 Toyota Venza Design

The 2023 Toyota Venza shares many design cues with the RAV4 Hybrid. In general, both models ride on the same platform. Anyway, the Nightshade Edition is a pinnacle of offer, and it sports an acrylic front grille trim with darkened badges, and some dark chrome on bumpers. Interestingly, you can optionally get a roof rail that can also be had in a black paint scheme.

Unlike the standard Venza that comes with 17-inch wheels, the Nightshade model rolls on a 19-inch multi-spoke wheels with a gloss black treatment.

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Inside, the new 2023 Toyota Venza looks way better than before. This SUV is slightly roomier than the smaller Toyota RAV4. It can reportedly fit seven carry-on suitcases behind the rear seat and 18 in total with the rear seats folded. Interestingly, the Venza is the first Toyota model that comes with the optional electrochromic panoramic sunroof called Star Gaze. The sunroof’s glass panels with one click go from transparent to opaque. We only saw this luxury on the Mercedes-Benz SL-class.

As standard, this model includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen that stands atop the dashboard. However, you can get a larger 12.3-inch on the XLE (optionally) or standard on the Limited trims. All Venza trims have Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa connectivity, as well as SiriusXM satellite radio.

2023 Toyota Venza interior

2023 Toyota Venza Hybrid Specs

As we said, the new 2023 Toyota Venza will use the hybrid system, which consists of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine and three electric motors. Together, they are able to develop 219 horsepower, while all-wheel drive is standard.

According to Toyota, one of the electric motors powers the rear wheels while the gasoline engine and the other two motors send power to the front. During some early testing, the Venza accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds, which is more than 1.5 seconds compared to the Passport.

2023 Toyota Venza rear

2023 Toyota Venza Price, Release Date

The 2023 Toyota Venza is an upcoming hybrid SUV that will be available in four trim levels. The base LE starts at $35,000, XLE at $38,000, the Nightshade Edition is $40,000, while the Limited cost $42,000.

So, if you’re looking for a stylish SUV with a fuel-sipping hybrid powertrain, the Toyota Venza is worth considering. On top of that, you can get a Nightshade model that dresses in a darker exterior wardrobe, making this SUV more unique. The sales of this model are expected to start later this year, probably in summertime.

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