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The 2023 Toyota Venza Nightshade.

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The 2023 Toyota Venza Nightshade.

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The 2023 Toyota Venza Nightshade.

Courtesy photo

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The 2023 Toyota Venza Nightshade.

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Inside the 2023 Toyota Venza Nightshade.

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Inside the 2023 Toyota Venza Nightshade.

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A peek under the hood of the 2023 Toyota Venza Nightshade.

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This week, we found ourselves behind the wheel of the 2023 Toyota Venza Hybrid XLE Nightshade for our weeklong test drive. The striking SUV, cloaked in an aura of sophistication, promised an adventure that would marry style and sustainability. With a heart that beats to the rhythm of hybrid efficiency and design finesse, the Venza Hybrid XLE Nightshade is one of the most underserved SUVs in the iconic Toyota line.

The allure of the Venza Hybrid began for us before we even set foot inside. The Nightshade Edition commands attention with its shadowy aesthetics, where glossy black accents play a symphony against the available exterior colors, especially the Ruby Flare Pearl that was included with our test model. The front grille, door handles, exterior mirror caps and 19-inch alloy wheels are all imbued with the Nightshade’s exclusive touch, and a luxury design that looked eerily Lexus-like.

Sliding into the driver’s seat, we were met with an interior that continued the theme of nocturnal elegance. The black SofTex-trimmed seats and steering wheel provide an immediate sense of luxury, while the darkened headliner and interior accents contributed to a cohesive design throughout. As we prepared for each day’s journey, the atmosphere was one of understated sophistication, setting the stage for an exceptional driving experience ahead.

Pressing the start button and hearing the gentle hum of the hybrid powertrain coming to life, we were reminded of Toyota’s commitment to environmentally conscious performance that has come with years of experience in the hybrid world.

The Venza Hybrid boasts a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, masterfully intertwined with three electric motors to produce a combined output of 219 horsepower, which proved more than adequate for most all of the driving situations we encountered throughout the week. This collaboration between internal combustion and electric power resulted in a genuine balance of performance and efficiency.

Driving through city streets, the Venza’s electric drive mode offered serene and nearly silent movement, capturing the essence of urban tranquility as we would move silently though our neighborhood each morning. The seamless transition between the gasoline engine and electric motors contributed to an uninterrupted flow, enhancing both the driving experience and, of course, fuel efficiency. For our test week of over 250 miles, we averaged 36.9 mpg.

At the heart of the 2023 Venza Nightshade’s interior lies a technological symposium. The expansive 12.3-inch touch screen display is the focal point of the dashboard, hosting Toyota’s Entune 3.0 multimedia system. Navigating through the various functions and apps was intuitive, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration ensured that staying connected with our phones was effortless.

Safety takes precedence as well, with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite of advanced driver-assistance features. The pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist and dynamic radar cruise control collectively contributed to a safer and more secure journey, aligning perfectly with Toyota’s commitment to passenger protection.

Toyota has been a leader in adding technology to all trim levels of their vehicles over the past few years and we find it very refreshing that these technologies do no require expensive additions to the base model, thus really enhancing everyone’s safety both within and outside of their vehicles.

As the sun painted the sky with hues of gold, we set our course for the open road, eager to experience the Venza Hybrid XLE Nightshade’s performance and handling dynamics for the first time in the newly redesigned SUV.

Engaging the pedal, we were met with smooth acceleration that’s characteristic of Toyota’s hybrid technology. The Venza effortlessly glided along the asphalt, with the adaptive all-wheel-drive system enhancing stability and grip on curves and corners.

The Venza Hybrid suspension, which is tuned to strike a balance between comfort and control, proved adept at absorbing road imperfections while maintaining excellent handling. The synergy between its efficient hybrid powertrain and responsive chassis contributed to maintain a confident and enjoyable driving experience.

As we brought our first night out to a close, the 2023 Toyota Venza Hybrid XLE Nightshade left a lasting impression with us both that extended beyond its stunning aesthetics. This SUV was a testament to Toyota’s unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability throughout the entire week of driving. The Nightshade Edition elevated its design to new heights, making a statement with its sleek aesthetics and, more importantly, giving the Venza a true new spirit.

However, the Venza Hybrid XLE Nightshade is not merely about looks; it’s about purposeful and useful performance. Its hybrid powertrain demonstrated Toyota’s dedication to preserving our environment while providing a dynamic driving experience is once again at the forefront of their engineering and design work. With its cutting-edge technology and refined design, the Venza Hybrid redefines what it means to drive responsibly and luxuriously.

As the sun set on our week with this memorable Toyota, we were reminded of the balance the Venza Hybrid struck between efficiency and style. It was a “Sunday Drive” that not only satisfied the senses but also aligned with the aspirations of anyone who seeks an eco-friendly SUV that doesn’t compromise on elegance and design.

The 2023 Toyota Venza Hybrid XLE Nightshade Edition stood as a testament to the manufacturer’s dedication to innovation, style and sustainability. The bold aesthetic upgrades in the Nightshade Edition enhanced its appeal, while the hybrid powertrain aligned with Toyota’s commitment to eco-conscious driving.

From the urban landscape to the open highway, the Venza Hybrid XLE Nightshade Edition was a bright start for us as a versatile and efficient companion. Whether you’re seeking a vehicle that effortlessly blends style and performance or an eco-friendly option that minimizes your carbon footprint, the Venza Hybrid delivers on all fronts. As the night fell on the the 2023 Toyota Venza Hybrid XLE Nightshade Edition, it rose to meet all the expectations we had going into the week of our test drive, with Toyota never disappointing as always.

Base price: $38,930

Destination charge: $1,325

Price as driven: $41,665

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