2023 Toyota Sequoia
The full-size SUV market is a hyper-competitive arena, and the Toyota Sequoia, a three-row utility now back for a third generation, looks to remain a popular entry.
This is the Sequoia’s first proper redesign since 2008, and it all starts with the chassis. It’s the same body-on-frame used for the Tundra pickup, global Land Cruiser and Lexus LX. From there, it’s configured as one of five grades, including the all-new Capstone level.
No matter which trim is picked, behind the grille is a standard hybrid powertrain: the i-FORCE MAX 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6, backed up by an electric battery and motor for a grand-total of 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the 10-speed automatic transmission and divvied out to the two- or four-wheel drive system.
Cruising around Texas, we found the Sequoia to be properly rugged, yet also pretty luxurious-- even the entry-level SR5. The cabin sports a 12.3-inch display, heated seats, a moonroof and Toyota Safety Sense 2.5. For a little extra, the SR5 Premium package adds a 14-inch display, a power third row, hands-free liftgate, and 120-volt outlets.
Each trim after offers even more, like the TRD Pro’s off-road upgrades and the Capstone’s extravagant surroundings.
KYLE SCANLON: "With this third generation, they put all the time and effort into it. Now, it has the same wheelbase as the outgoing model, but the body is three-inches longer— which I have been told is mainly for styling reasons. But they hit all those styling points perfectly. The car looks very composed, very-- very clean, but at the same time rugged. You could look at it and you know that on any trim level this thing will pass the test of overlanding, a little bit of rock crawling, some mud pits, whatever you really want to throw at it…"
Perhaps our only gripe with the new Sequoia is the loss of the power rear window, now a flip-up. Still, overall the 2023 Toyota Sequoia is a nice upgrade, starting just under $60,000 for the entry-level SR5. Top-trim Capstone 4x4’s start just under $80,000.