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One of the most beloved Toyota models ever produced was the Venza. It was spacious and fun to drive, with many standard features making it an easy choice for many consumers.

When the Venza makes its return by the end of the 2020 calendar year, this time as a 2021 model, it will reach dealerships with an all-new powertrain. But what will it be?

Now, I say to expect the new Venza by the end of the year. However, we do need to follow current events around the world to see if the proposed timeline still follows to form. Let’s hope so.

What the Venza used to be

Those of us who spent any time around the Toyota Venza from 2009 until 2015 know how practical and fun these were. In fact, many people are still happily driving around in their Venzas with pride.

Buyers were given the choice of two different engine sizes: a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder and a 3.5-liter V6. This variety allowed consumers to decide on their perfect Venza based on whether they preferred more power or better fuel efficiency.

From there, you could also pick between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.

What to expect from 2021 Toyota Venza

The 2021 Venza will officially glide into dealerships across the country with only one power plant option. Expect the all-new Venza to come as a hybrid only. This will be the only choice.

And it makes sense, too.

People are placing more importance on gas mileage ratings more and more each year, which will make a 2021 Toyota Venza an attractive possibility.

The question is, what engine and transmission should we expect?

First off, since it will be manufactured only in hybrid form, I would imagine we can expect an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT). This is what Toyota uses for its hybrid models such as the Corolla Hybrid LE, Prius Prime, Highlander Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid.

Horsepower and torque numbers, as well as confirmed engine choice, have not been released by Toyota. So we must speculate.

A new 2021 Venza will be larger than the current RAV4 but smaller than a Highlander. It will have two rows of seating and should seat five people.

RAV4 Hybrid utilizes a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine combined with electric motors that produces 219 net hybrid horsepower. Highlander Hybrid also features a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and electric motors. This delivers 243 total horsepower.

For now, I think we can loosely assume Venza will match up a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, along with at least two electric motors, and a smooth and efficient CVT.

Based on this, could we see figures somewhere in the 220hp to 240hp? This is extrapolated guesswork on my part, but it makes for interesting conversation until we know more.

Monkey wrench: Would it also be interesting to see Venza also offer a plug-in alternative, similar to 2021 RAV4 Prime or 2020 Prius Prime? I have heard no speculation or rumors about this specific power plant, but again, for now we must wonder.

Time for your thoughts on 2021 Toyota Venza

What do you think about Venza? Have you owned or currently owned one? If so, how does it drive and how do you like it?

Will you consider the 2021 Venza when it arrives?

Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story when I show you all 8 colors for the 2020 Toyota Highlander. What is your favorite one?

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