There are many choices available on the market when looking to purchase an SUV. Two popular choices are the Lexus RX 350 and Toyota Venza. Both vehicles are known for their reliability, quality, and performance. However, each has its own unique features and characteristics. In this article, we will compare the Lexus RX 350 vs Toyota Venza in terms of design, interior features, performance, safety, pricing, and value.
Design and Exterior
The exterior design of a vehicle is often one of the first things that catches a buyer’s attention. The Lexus RX 350 and Toyota Venza both have sleek, modern designs that are sure to turn heads. The Lexus RX 350 has a more classic SUV look, with a bold front grille, sharp lines, and a sloping roofline. On the other hand, the Toyota Venza has a more streamlined design, with a sloping roofline and a sporty-looking front end.
In terms of dimensions, the Lexus RX 350 is slightly larger than the Toyota Venza. The RX 350 measures 192.5 inches in length, 74.6 inches in width, and 67.7 inches in height. The Venza, on the other hand, measures 186.6 inches in length, 73 inches in width, and 65.9 inches in height. This means that the Lexus RX 350 has more interior space and a larger cargo area.
When it comes to colour options, both the Lexus RX 350 and Toyota Venza offer a variety of choices. The Lexus RX 350 is available in 11 colours, including Eminent White Pearl, Caviar, and Nightfall Mica. The Toyota Venza is available in nine colours, including Blizzard Pearl, Ruby Flare Pearl, and Coastal Gray Metallic. Overall, both vehicles offer a range of stylish colour options to choose from.
Interior and Features
The interior of an SUV is just as important as its exterior design. The Lexus RX 350 and Toyota Venza both offer high-quality interiors with plenty of features to make your driving experience more comfortable and convenient.
The Lexus RX 350 has a luxurious interior with premium materials, including leather upholstery and wood trim. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with plenty of room for passengers in both the front and back seats. The vehicle also comes equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 9-speaker sound system.
The Toyota Venza has a modern and sophisticated interior with soft-touch materials and a comfortable cabin. The seats are supportive and spacious, with plenty of legroom in the front and back. The vehicle also comes equipped with an 8-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 6-speaker sound system.
One advantage of the Lexus RX 350 is that it offers more features and technology than the Toyota Venza. For example, the RX 350 comes with a standard panoramic moonroof, while the Venza only offers a standard sunroof. The RX 350 comes standard with features such as warm and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a head-up display, which are not available on the Venza.
Performance and Capability
When it comes to performance, the Lexus RX 350 and Toyota Venza both offer powerful and efficient engines. The RX 350 has a 295-horsepower and 267-lb-ft output V6 engine. A standard 8-speed automatic gearbox and front-wheel drive complement the powertrain, with all-wheel drive being an available add-on. The RX 350 has a smooth and comfortable ride, with responsive steering and good handling.
The Toyota Venza, on the other hand, comes with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system that delivers 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid system provides excellent fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 40 mpg combined. All-wheel drive is standard on the Venza, making it a good option for people who reside in regions with bad winters.
While the RX 350 has more horsepower and torque than the Venza, Venza’s hybrid system provides excellent fuel economy, which can save you money on gas in the long run. Additionally, Venza’s all-wheel-drive system provides better traction and stability in slippery conditions.
Safety and Security
Safety is a top priority for many SUV buyers, and both the Lexus RX 350 and Toyota Venza come with a range of advanced safety features. Equipped as standard on the RX 350 is the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which includes things like automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams.
The Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 package, standard on the Venza, contains forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. The Venza also comes standard with blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, which are not available on the RX 350.
Both vehicles have received excellent safety ratings from NHTSA (the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The RX 350 received an overall five-star rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. The Venza also received an overall five-star rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.
Pricing and Value
Finally, pricing is an important factor when considering a new SUV purchase. The Lexus RX 350 has a starting price of around $45,000, while the Toyota Venza has a starting price of around $33,000. However, it’s important to note that the RX 350 offers more features and technology than the Venza, which can account for the higher price.
In terms of value, both vehicles offer excellent reliability and resale value. According to Kelley Blue Book, the Lexus RX 350 has a five-year cost to own of around $57,000, while the Toyota Venza has a five-year cost to own of around $43,000. This means that both vehicles offer good long-term value, with the Venza offering slightly better value due to its lower price and excellent fuel economy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Lexus RX 350 and Toyota Venza are both excellent SUVs with their own unique features and characteristics. The RX 350 offers a more luxurious interior, more horsepower and torque, and more features and technology. The Venza, on the other hand, offers excellent fuel economy, standard all-wheel drive, and a lower price point. Ultimately, the choice between these two SUVs comes down to personal preference and priorities. If you value luxury and features, the Lexus RX 350 may be the better choice for you. If you prioritize fuel economy and all-wheel drive, the Toyota Venza may be the better choice.
