Toyota Sequoia (US) review

There’s no getting around the fact that the Sequoia is a very substantial, 15,000lb vehicle. So with that said, the SUV gets tons of points for simply being easy to control. The driving position is commanding but since there’s just so much Sequoia for you to pilot, it’s difficult to get a full grasp on where the car’s extremities are.

Because of this you tend to cheat a bit away from the passenger side for fear of encroaching into another lane, or that you might swipe mirrors off of anything parked on the street. Smooth, deliberate steering and responsive pedals mitigate any fear that this near-bus is going to get away from you.

This is why we’re particularly impressed with the hybrid powertrain: it isn’t fast for enjoyment’s sake, but it’s quick enough to be useful. You tend to be hyper aware of how – and let’s not mince our words here – in the way you are in the Sequoia. So it’s good for everyone that it can get a move on with relative ease.

How’s the fuel economy?

Toyota’s hybrid system does its best to keep the Sequoia from being as thirsty as its coniferous namesake. The EPA gives it a 20mpg combined estimate, and we observed around 18mpg in the practice. Given what we’re working with, it’s a decent result. Though it wouldn’t hurt to carpool every once in a while.

What are the driving modes and assists?

In addition to the normal drive mode options, Sequoias with the TRD off-road package are equipped with a number of hardware upgrades like a locking rear diff, bespoke shocks and a slew of extra bits if its the TRD Pro pack. They also gain a multi-terrain select system that provides the best control it can muster on various surfaces. These models also come packed with crawl control and downhill assist control.