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The 2021 Toyota Venza Feature You Want but May Have Trouble Getting

Learn about the feature 2021 Venza buyers are having trouble finding – but really want and will love.

Toyota Venza has returned. With it comes luxury-inspired styling, as well as a plethora of modern technology and safety systems. Like remote engine start, among many others.

In fact, I recently wrote a Torque News story about Toyota Venza and comfort. Results seem very positive from new owners.

I just bought a 2021 Venza Limited so I will happily volunteer as a test subject. Hopefully, my observations will assist you with your research.

2021 Toyota Venza Limited Ruby Flare Pearl profile view front end

One feature I have absolutely fallen in love with is also the one that is proving the most challenging for potential buyers to find.

2021 Venza StarGaze Panoramic Roof

Who does not enjoy a good moonroof every now and then?

Toyota most commonly includes a moonroof as standard equipment on its higher grades of cars, trucks and SUVs.
Then, it is optional as a standalone feature or as part of an upgrade package on lower trim levels.

RELATED VIDEO: See Toyota Venza StarGaze in action in my video review.

I will start at the beginning for those who are not yet familiar with Toyota Venza grade strategy. It comes in LE, XLE and Limited. These are easy to remember, since you will already see these trims on many popular Toyota models like RAV4, Camry, Highlander, Avalon and Prius.

You will find StarGaze fixed panoramic roof as an optional upgrade on the 2021 Venza Limited.

Let me tell you. It is really cool technology, and it will make you smile the first time you try it. As one new Venza owner said, “it is a great conversation starter” for his first-time passengers.

2021 Toyota Venza Limited StarGaze fixed panoramic roof clear

StarGaze panoramic roof switches between two settings instantly with the simple push of a button. Drivers can choose from a frosted look and a clear look.

Some facts to know. Frosted is the default setting when your Toyota Venza is first started. The glass is fixed in place and cannot be opened like a traditional moonroof.

2021 Toyota Venza Limited StarGaze fixed panoramic roof frosted

For me, the frosted look is ideal. I really enjoy the bright cabin in both front and rear seats, but I do not enjoy how the sun’s glare makes it hot on my head when open. Frosted does not let in heat like a moonroof, but allows light in.

Double score.

I remember Matthew McConaughey in “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” asking people to “frost yourself.” Now I think of this phrase every time I use StarGaze roof.

Maybe you will too. You can thank me later.

Does 2021 Toyota Venza Offer a Moonroof?

2021 Toyota Venza Limited rear seat leg room

There is one detail that is important to know as you do your due diligence on 2021 Toyota Venza. You may need to know this one.

Venza LE does not come standard with a moonroof. Nor does Venza XLE. Venza Limited does not either.

Your sole option is to upgrade your Limited with the StarGaze fixed panoramic roof.

Availability of Venza Limited with StarGaze

During my search for a 2021 Venza Limited, I found that the hardest configuration to find is a Limited with StarGaze panoramic roof. It would have required me to wait a couple more months to get this incredible feature.

I chose to purchase one without. So, I am now the proud owner of a 2021 Toyota Venza Limited in Coastal Gray.

Love it. I really love it.

A few people across the country have let me know they have had to pre-order their StarGaze panoramic roof and it took up to a couple of months waiting time. Probably worth the wait.

I encourage you all to test this for yourselves and report back.

Time for your thoughts on 2021 Venza

What are your feelings about the new Venza so far? Do you own one, and if so, please leave a comment with your impressions.

Do you have a Venza with the StarGaze roof and if so, how do you like it?

I am guessing availability of the StarGaze is slim since Venza was only recently launched. I would assume (yeah, I know about doing that) that supplies will eventually catch up to the demand.

I just want to put it out there. “Reach for the stars – with StarGaze.”

Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story when I share comments of Toyota Tundra fans on next-gen engine choices.

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Comments

Joe (not verified)    January 20, 2021 - 7:12AM

The signal lights are installed in the bumper and is a safety problem. 1 It is low so difficult to see and it is not a normal location for a turn signal. It can get very dirty easily like when it snows. I f someone hits the bumper the light can break. 2 The rear view is not good. 3 Passenger seat height in the front cannot be adjusted. 4 Under powered. 5 Noisy

NormT (not verified)    January 20, 2021 - 10:03AM

In reply to by Joe (not verified)

The general public is too interested as Toyota Jeff is in a $45K RAV4 hybrid with a panoroof. Reviewers forget about the front passenger seat sometimes as us as driver's and front passengers want the same adjustments.

Mary Kay Radenheimer (not verified)    January 20, 2021 - 8:04AM

I recently bought the limited addition 2021. I love it. I wanted the remote start, so I had to go with the limited. However, I did not care about the moon roof, but I was told it was not an option, but was standard. They did have to find the color I wanted from another dealer as they had a limited selection in December since it was so new. I have been very happy and I live in my car!

Lissa (not verified)    April 28, 2021 - 3:05PM

So disappointed in Toyota. We love the Venza ride, but in LE, no rails for a roof rack, no tow package option. They lost a sale in an attempt to force people to get a more luxury model. (We can’t do leather)

Norman F Wohlmuth (not verified)    July 8, 2021 - 10:16PM

Purchased a 2021 Venza Limited with the stargazer roof and heads up display. I couldn't be more pleased with it. All the bells and whistles averaging 40 MPG. Love it!

Joseph Weston (not verified)    November 10, 2021 - 10:52AM

Love my 2021 Venza but can't for the life of me understand why they didn't design it to include, or at least accommodate, roof rails. Obviously one would not want to obstruct the StarGaze feature, but there are always times when one needs to have a roof rack for skis, carrier, kayak, etc. VERY, VERY, VERY disappointing!

BILLY JOE SIZEMORE (not verified)    January 27, 2022 - 4:51PM

Love mine. I went with the cross bars instead of the star gazer. Glad I did. Couldn't get the moonroof w/o it opening. NEVER use them, but it looks cool. Have the tow hitch for my bikes. Love it.