The Toyota Venza made a significant splash in the midsize CUV market when it debuted in 2022, bringing a blend of premium styling, exceptional comfort, and impressive fuel efficiency thanks to its standard hybrid powertrain. For 2023, Toyota elevates the Venza’s appeal even further with the introduction of the striking Nightshade Edition, adding a bold new aesthetic to this already sophisticated vehicle. Building upon the well-equipped XLE trim, the 2023 Toyota Venza Nightshade Edition offers a unique visual signature with its blacked-out accents, available in a trio of premium exterior colors. This addition reinforces the Venza’s position as a tech-forward, premium crossover utility vehicle that doesn’t compromise on efficiency or style.
The 2023 Toyota Venza continues to be exclusively offered as a hybrid, boasting an EPA-estimated 39 combined MPG rating. This commitment to hybrid technology across all Venza trims underscores Toyota’s dedication to fuel efficiency and environmental consciousness. Coupled with standard Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive, the Venza provides confident handling in various driving conditions without sacrificing its impressive MPG. Inside, the Venza offers a technologically advanced and serene cabin, featuring available upgrades such as a large 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system and the captivating Star Gaze™ panoramic roof. Furthermore, the inclusion of Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 as standard equipment across the lineup ensures peace of mind with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance features.
The Nightshade Edition: Embracing the Dark Side of Style
The 2023 Toyota Venza Nightshade Edition injects a dose of dramatic flair into the CUV’s already elegant design. Available on the XLE trim level, this special edition package allows drivers to express a bolder personality. Customers can choose from three premium exterior colors to complement the blackout treatment: Celestial Black, the newly introduced Wind Chill Pearl (replacing Blizzard Pearl for all 2023 Venza models), and Ruby Flare Red. Each color option is enhanced by a comprehensive array of black exterior trim elements, creating a cohesive and assertive visual statement.
The Nightshade Edition’s distinctive styling cues begin at the front with a black acrylic front grille trim, immediately setting it apart. This theme continues across the vehicle with black-painted outer mirror caps, door handles, rocker panels, and the option of black roof rails for added utility and visual appeal. Smoked chrome moldings on the lower front and rear bumpers provide a subtle yet sophisticated contrast to the dominant black accents. Completing the darkened aesthetic is a black shark fin antenna, a stylish touch that further emphasizes the Nightshade Edition’s unique character.
Adding to its road presence, the 2023 Venza Nightshade Edition rides on exclusive 19-inch gloss-black multi-spoke aluminum alloy wheels, further enhancing its sporty and sophisticated stance. Blacked-out rear badges complete the exterior transformation, ensuring that every detail contributes to the Nightshade’s cohesive design theme. Functionality is also enhanced with standard LED fog lamps on the XLE and Nightshade trims, providing improved visibility in challenging conditions. For those seeking an even more immersive experience, the Nightshade Edition can be equipped with the optional Star Gaze™ Panoramic Roof, seamlessly blending open-air enjoyment with the darkened aesthetic.
Solid Foundation: TNGA-K Platform and Driving Dynamics
The 2023 Toyota Venza is built upon the Toyota New Global Architecture K (TNGA-K) platform, a foundation shared with many of Toyota’s acclaimed sedans and crossovers, including Lexus luxury models. This advanced platform is crucial to the Venza’s refined driving dynamics, offering a harmonious blend of sedan-like comfort and CUV versatility. The TNGA-K platform provides inherent structural rigidity, contributing to a smooth and quiet ride while also enhancing handling agility.
This robust platform underpins the Venza’s confident and comfortable driving experience. The suspension system, featuring front struts and a rear multi-link setup, is finely tuned to deliver both responsive handling and a composed ride, effectively absorbing road imperfections. The Venza’s maneuverability is another key benefit, making it easy to navigate city streets and parking lots while still offering ample interior space for passengers and cargo.
Technology and Innovation: Elevating the Cabin Experience
Inside the 2023 Toyota Venza, technology and innovation are seamlessly integrated to create a modern and user-friendly environment. Available features are designed to enhance both convenience and driving pleasure, placing the Venza firmly in the premium CUV segment. A highlight of the Venza’s tech offerings is the available 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia display, which can be paired with a premium nine-speaker JBL sound system for an immersive audio experience. Drivers can also opt for a 12.3-inch full digital instrument cluster, providing customizable information displays, and a 10-inch color Head-Up Display, projecting essential driving data directly onto the windshield. For enhanced visibility, a digital rearview mirror is also available, providing a wider, unobstructed view of the rear.
One of the most captivating technological features of the Venza is the available Star Gaze™ panoramic glass roof. This electrochromic glass roof, available on the Nightshade and Limited trims, allows occupants to switch between transparent and frosted modes instantly with the touch of a button. In frosted mode, Star Gaze™ diffuses direct sunlight while maintaining brightness, creating an airy and open cabin ambiance. This innovative feature enhances the sense of spaciousness and luxury within the Venza’s interior.
Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+: Advanced Safety as Standard
Safety is paramount in the 2023 Toyota Venza, which comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 (TSS 2.5), a comprehensive suite of active safety systems. Building upon previous iterations, TSS 2.5 includes enhancements to the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, now capable of detecting oncoming vehicles and pedestrians when turning at intersections. This system is designed to provide audio/visual alerts and automatic emergency braking in certain conditions to help mitigate or prevent collisions. Emergency steering assist is also included, designed to aid the driver in evasive steering maneuvers while helping to prevent lane departure.
Further enhancing safety and driver assistance, TSS 2.5 on the Venza includes Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), maintaining a preset distance to the vehicle ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic. Lane Departure Alert is designed to warn the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without signaling. When DRCC is active, Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) provides subtle steering inputs to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane. Automatic High Beams, Road Sign Assist, and Toyota’s Rear Seat Reminder system are also standard, contributing to a safer and more confident driving experience. In addition to TSS 2.5, the Venza is equipped with standard Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking, providing a comprehensive safety net.
Hybrid Powertrain and All-Wheel Drive: Efficiency Without Compromise
The 2023 Toyota Venza continues its commitment to efficiency with its standard Toyota Hybrid System II powertrain. This system combines a highly efficient 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine with three electric motors and a lithium-ion battery. Advanced engine technologies, such as Variable Valve Timing-intelligent system by Electric motor (VVT-iE) and a variable cooling system, further optimize engine performance and fuel economy. The result is a seamless and responsive hybrid system that delivers 219 total system horsepower while achieving an impressive EPA-estimated 39 combined MPG rating.
The Venza’s hybrid system provides more than just fuel efficiency; it also enhances the driving experience. The electric motors provide instant torque, contributing to brisk acceleration and responsive performance, particularly at lower speeds. The system intelligently manages the balance between electric motor assistance and gasoline engine operation, ensuring smooth and quiet acceleration without the need for high engine revs. Drivers can further tailor the Venza’s performance with selectable NORMAL, ECO, and SPORT driving modes, allowing them to prioritize fuel efficiency or responsiveness as desired. An EV mode is also available for short-distance electric-only driving at low speeds.
Standard Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) adds another layer of capability and confidence to the 2023 Venza. This system utilizes a separate rear-mounted electric motor to power the rear wheels when needed, providing enhanced traction in slippery conditions and improved handling in various driving scenarios. The AWD system operates seamlessly and transparently, distributing torque between the front and rear wheels as needed to optimize grip and stability.
Serene and Spacious Interior: Comfort and Practicality
The interior of the 2023 Toyota Venza is designed to be a tranquil and comfortable space for both driver and passengers. Toyota engineers have prioritized noise reduction, creating a cabin that minimizes outside distractions, allowing for easy conversation and enhanced enjoyment of the audio system. The TNGA-K platform and strategic use of sound-absorbing materials throughout the vehicle contribute to a remarkably quiet ride.
Comfort features abound in the Venza’s cabin. An 8-way power driver’s seat is standard on all trims, with Limited models now featuring a newly standard 8-way power passenger seat for 2023. Available heated and ventilated front seats further enhance comfort in varying climates. The Venza also incorporates S-FLOW air conditioning technology, directing airflow only to occupied seats for optimized comfort and energy efficiency. Despite its midsize classification, the Venza offers a surprisingly spacious interior, with 28.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 55.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Thoughtful storage solutions, including large cupholders and door bottle holders, add to the Venza’s practicality.
Advanced Connectivity and Audio: Staying Connected on the Go
The 2023 Toyota Venza is equipped with cutting-edge connectivity and entertainment features through the Toyota Audio Multimedia system. An 8-inch touchscreen is standard on the LE trim, while XLE and Limited models boast a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen. For 2023, all Venza models receive the updated Toyota Audio Multimedia system, featuring enhanced processing speeds, intuitive touch and voice controls, and Over-the-Air (OTA) update capability. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are standard, along with dual Bluetooth phone connectivity. Available Connected Services, such as Drive Connect with Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist, further enhance the connected experience. An available Wi-Fi Connect subscription turns the Venza into a mobile hotspot, and integrated streaming allows users to link their Apple Music and Amazon Music subscriptions. For audiophiles, the optional JBL Premium Audio system delivers exceptional sound quality through 9 speakers, including a subwoofer, powered by a 12-channel amplifier.
Conclusion: The 2023 Toyota Venza – Premium Hybrid CUV, Elevated
The 2023 Toyota Venza solidifies its position as a standout premium hybrid CUV, offering a compelling combination of sophisticated design, advanced technology, exceptional fuel efficiency, and now, the added visual drama of the Nightshade Edition. Whether you prioritize fuel savings, cutting-edge features, or bold styling, the 2023 Toyota Venza delivers on all fronts. With its standard hybrid powertrain, available all-wheel drive, and a suite of comfort and convenience features, the Venza is ideally suited for drivers seeking a refined and efficient crossover that makes a statement. The introduction of the Nightshade Edition further expands the Venza’s appeal, offering a unique and stylish option for those who want to stand out from the crowd. The 2023 Toyota Venza is a testament to Toyota’s commitment to innovation, quality, and providing vehicles that meet the diverse needs and desires of today’s drivers.
