Is the Toyota Venza Poised for a Comeback? Exploring the Third-Generation Virtual Concept

The Expanding Toyota Lineup: Excitement for 2026

Toyota Motor North America continues to impress automotive enthusiasts and industry insiders with an ever-growing range of vehicles. The brand is gearing up for a dynamic 2026 model year, introducing nine new vehicles spanning from standout crossover SUVs to exhilarating sports cars and innovative passenger vehicles. Notable entries include the striking Toyota GR86 Yusu Edition, the GR Supra MKV Final Edition, a refreshed Corolla Cross compact SUV, the nostalgic Corolla Hatchback FX Edition, the reborn electric C-HR coupe-SUV, updates to the bZ family, and the adventurous bZ Woodland.

Introducing the Electrified 2026 Toyota RAV4

Leading the charge is the sixth-generation 2026 Toyota RAV4, now available exclusively with electrified powertrains. This latest iteration doesn’t just bring innovation to performance—it also delivers a new 321-hp plug-in hybrid variant and an athletic GR Sport model. The RAV4's high-tech, eco-focused evolution is expected to shape Toyota’s design and technology strategy for years to come, especially as it debuts the brand’s bold hammerhead front fascia and advanced lighting signatures.

The Virtual Return: Imagining a Third-Generation Toyota Venza

While Toyota’s real-world lineup is expanding, there’s growing buzz in the digital automotive world about potential models yet to materialize. Enter the third-generation Toyota Venza—a mid-size crossover SUV that has recently been reimagined by virtual automotive artist Dimas Ramadhan, known for his creative work on the Digimods DESIGN channel. Leveraging cutting-edge CGI techniques and inspired by the all-new XA60 RAV4, this conceptual Venza fuses modern Toyota design language with the versatility of a mid-size SUV platform.

Toyota Venza: A Quick History and Discontinuation

First launched for the North American market in 2008, the Toyota Venza carved out a niche as a five-passenger, mid-size crossover with ample comfort and style. The inaugural model was built atop the Camry’s XV40 platform, while the second generation utilized the XU80 Harrier foundations from the Japanese market. Always positioned just below the Highlander and exclusively as a hybrid, the Venza earned praise for its sophisticated look and strong value, with a starting price around $35,000.

However, the Venza’s journey was cut short at the end of 2024, as Toyota phased it out in favor of the more luxurious—and pricier—2025 Toyota Crown Signia, starting at $44,000. This move was aimed at recalibrating the lineup as the Highlander hybrid now surpassed the outgoing Venza’s price point. Yet, for many SUV fans, the question remains whether the market misses the approachable luxury and efficient performance that defined the Venza nameplate.

Virtual Design: Features and Styling Inspired by Toyota’s Latest

In this imaginative revival, the third-gen Venza is illustrated on Toyota's advanced TNGA-K platform, shared with the current Camry and the electrified 2026 RAV4. The render showcases progressive elements such as the distinct hammerhead front design, a sleek honeycomb grille in body color, modern C-shaped LED headlights with DRLs, and eye-catching horizontal LED taillights framed in glossy black. These features mirror Toyota’s new global styling direction, promising an even more refined, athletic presence on the road.

Performance and Market Positioning

Should Toyota decide to resurrect the Venza in line with this virtual concept, expectations are high for efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, leveraging its TNGA-K underpinnings for a balanced ride and nimble handling. Its market placement would likely target savvy North American buyers seeking a blend of luxury, technology, and value in the ever-competitive mid-size SUV segment—potentially filling the gap between the mainstream Highlander and the premium Crown Signia.

Crown Signia vs. Venza: Does the Market Need Both?

With the higher-priced Crown Signia now taking the Venza’s previous slot, Toyota fans are left to wonder if there’s room for both in tomorrow’s showrooms. This virtual Venza concept makes a compelling case: a hybrid SUV that is stylish, capable, and competitively priced may still win over buyers who find the Crown Signia’s $44,000 entry point intimidating.

The Takeaway

As Toyota continues evolving its crossover and SUV range, digital visions like this third-generation Toyota Venza spark both nostalgia and excitement. While only time will tell if North American dealers will once again offer the Venza badge, the concept demonstrates the enduring appeal of a stylish, efficient, and practical mid-size hybrid SUV in today's market.