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AWD Badges Missing?

25K views 86 replies 30 participants last post by  qs933  
#1 ·
#13 ·
LOL, I noticed it too when I started watching all the YT videos. The lack of AWD emblems on the rear doors maintains the clean clutter free appearance. Here’s my take on the AWD aspect- when it was reported that the Venza had “AWD on demand”, that caught my attention right off! I have always been concerned with the way AWD systems were designed and not having the ability to turn it off when not really needed. Parasitic losses, lower mpg#’s, more added weight and another potential part that could require service and add to the overall cost of ownership. It sounds great initially but it’s a drag on performance, pun intended. When the 2020 Camry was announced as having an optional AWD system, but only on the I4 version, not on the V6, that made me smile, the Corporate honchos and Engineers were concerned about 300+ HP being applied to it and rightly so, they would likely have warranty issues in due time. The additional weight of the V6 + AWD combined would not be good for performance. Lighter weight materials are the norm so reliability comes into question. Strong but light is a delicate balance for auto manufacturers to deal with.
This hybrid Venza with 3 electric motors, one in the back to supply the on demand traction, is a nice get, I had my first use of this design in a recent snow event and I was quite impressed how it behaved. Seeing the TFT display of the wheels in action while slipping and gaining traction when the motor activated was comforting, all virtually seamless in its performance. While on the virtues of electric motors with our hybrids, I’m also delighted to know that when we decelerate and want to apply the brakes the two front motors activate taking some of the stress off of braking from the pads/rotors, giving us increased service life to those parts. Another bonus for H-Venza.
My I4 2018 Camry XSE with 44.3K miles after 2 yrs and 10 months needed tires and brakes when I turned it in. To me this was shocking, maybe the OEM tires are not high mileage quality and the brake pads/rotors aren’t heavy duty, it’s a sporty sedan, but compromised, hence the TRD being offered.
So to sum up, the lack of an AWD emblem is fine by me, it’s not AWD full time, but on demand only, almost like bragging about something you will use seldom.
To buy them will set you back about $33. or so apiece, meh, more nickel and diming. Pass.
 
#3 ·
YES! I noticed that too and I still haven't figured it out. I have the AWD logos on my Limited, so I thought maybe that was it, but then someone saw a Limited without AWD badges (note the body colored rear spoiler and Limited wheels on the red Venza, but no AWD badges on the doors, but the grey limited does). The only difference is the red Limited had Stargaze and the other does not.

Someone said they add the badges at the port (point of entry in the US), so maybe they just aren't all following the instructions? But even the glamor shots on Toyota website don't always show the AWD badges... so maybe the Port prep is adding them by mistake?

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#5 · (Edited)
#25 ·
Here's the response I received from Toyota regarding the AWD badges.
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Thank you for contacting Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

We are very sorry, however, due to an unusually high volume of email contacts, we were unable to respond to your inquiry in a timely manner. We sincerely apologize for any delay and we appreciate your understanding, as it is never our intention to keep a guest waiting.

Congratulations on the purchase of your new 2021 Toyota Venza!

As all trim levels of the 2021 Venza are AWD, the AWD badge in question is an accessory part and is not installed at the factory. Some dealers may have purchased and installed this part under their own discretion.
 
#51 ·
I found a site that has it listed for $70.00 plus shipping. They also have all the accessories on there as well and its a user friendly site.

 
#52 ·
I found a site that has it listed for $70.00 plus shipping. They also have all the accessories on there as well and its a user friendly site.

Checking the web page I would say the prices are higher, again Can. exchange rate?
Also on the Venza link they don’t have the oil change kit for the 2021 Venza, only years available are 2010-2016.
2021 Venza oil is 0W16.
The roof rack is way cheaper on eBay, $248. give or take a few $.
Vent shades are fair on price, if you can find them!
The screen grab pic on the Bay yielded one outrageously priced JDM Harrier visor set.
GTFO ! SMDH ! Not happening.😳

Any takers?? LOL, such a bargain!