The journey of the Toyota Venza has been quite a transformation. It began as a humble half-wagon, half-crossover, only to be reborn as the hybrid-only SUV known as the Harrier in some markets—a name that undeniably carries a cooler vibe. However, Venza’s chapter is coming to a close, and it will soon exist only in the hushed whispers of days gone by. Why, you ask? Well, a new mid-size hybrid monarch is on the rise, and it goes by the regal name of the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia hybrid SUV.
In the automotive arena, it’s a bit like a Highlander scenario—no, not the larger Toyota SUV, but the movie. In this case, two contenders in the thin mid-size segment, the Venza and the Crown Signia, cannot coexist. Therefore, Toyota has confirmed that the Venza will be discontinued after the 2024 model year.
The Venza relied on a three-motor hybrid system, producing a net 219 horsepower—sufficient for its needs, but the Crown Signia takes it up a notch. With a three-motor hybrid system, the Crown Signia boasts a combined output of 243 hp. Notably, the Venza was never officially rated for towing, but those with items to transport might find the Crown Signia appealing as it is rated to tow up to 2700 pounds, all while relying on a continuously variable transmission.
Size matters and the almost-compact Venza shared its 105.9-inch wheelbase with the RAV4 Hybrid, making its cabin feel relatively compact. However, the Crown Signia, despite being billed as a mid-size, offers a more spacious interior. Unfortunately, the Venza’s cool electrochromic roof, capable of changing its opacity at the push of a button, will not be making a return. Instead, the Crown Signia’s top Limited trim features a regular glass roof.
With the growth in footprint and output, one can anticipate an increase in price. The 2024 Venza started at around $36,315 and reached up to $46,000. Considering that the Crown sedan is pricier, it’s reasonable to expect that its new, larger SUV sibling will come with an even higher price tag. Change is inevitable, and in the world of automobiles, it often comes with advancements and, yes, a shift in cost.
