Toyota Venza

If there is one superstar quality the Venza possesses, it is undoubtedly its segment-leading fuel economy. Certainly, its hybrid powertrain gives the second-gen Venza a significant leg up on rival midsize SUVs, but it far and away exceeds anything its competitors have to offer.

EPA-rated at 39 mpg combined, the hybrid Venza actually outperformed that number in Edmunds testing, getting just over 44 mpg combined. The next most fuel-efficient midsize SUV is the Subaru Outback, which delivers a paltry (by comparison) 29 mpg combined. Though its sticker price can be higher than some competitors, the Venza makes up for it at the fuel pump.

Notably, these fuel economy figures aren't quite as strong for the hybrid-less first-generation Venza. Depending on engine and drive configuration, it’s rated at between 21 and 24 mpg combined, according to the EPA. That’s still pretty good for such a roomy car.

The second-gen Venza also comes through when it comes to available tech. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, while its 12.3-inch touchscreen is more than twice the size of the first-generation Venza’s available display, a 6.1-inch unit that was standard beginning in 2013. Add four USB ports and a wireless charger to the mix (available for the 2021 model years and beyond), and tech enthusiasts should be pleased.

Moreover, many advanced driver aids come standard on the second-generation Venza, including adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, forward collision mitigation, and lane departure warning. Front and rear parking sensors are available on the XLE trim, while a 360-degree camera system to help with parking is added to the Limited.

This is a significant leap forward from the first-generation Venza, which offers more of a no-frills experience by comparison. That said, the older version got a rearview camera as an option in 2013 (it became standard across the lineup in 2015), while front and rear parking sensors became standard on the upper-level Limited trim starting in 2014.