Sequoia has been an apt name for Toyota’s full-size SUV as the second-generation model has seemingly been around as long as California’s famous redwood trees. Set to arrive at U.S. dealerships this summer, the 2023 Sequoia is a radical departure from its predecessor as curvaceous styling has been replaced by sharp lines and chiseled surfaces. The front end closely echoes the Tundra as there’s a massive grille flanked by T-shaped headlights.
Designers also gave the SUV blacked out A-pillars and
muscular fenders reminiscent of the pickup. They’re joined by streamlined
bodywork, a more modern greenhouse, and an upright rear end with slender
taillights as well as prominent Sequoia badging. Each trim has its own
distinctive styling features. While reaction to the model will likely be mixed,
buyers looking for a sportier appearance can opt for a TRD Sport package.
Available on the entry-level SR5 trim, the package adds 20-inch matte black
wheels, Bilstein shocks, and TRD-tuned springs. The cabin also gets a minor
makeover thanks to aluminum pedals and a red push-button ignition.
There’s also a new TRD Off-Road package, which takes things
in a decidedly more rugged direction. It features TRD-tuned shocks and springs
as well as a locking rear differential. They’re joined by unique 18-inch alloy
wheels and a red front driveshaft for “added flair.” Speaking of the latter,
buyers will find aluminum pedals and a red push-button ignition. The TRD
Off-Road package also includes Downhill Assist Control, a Multi-Terrain Select
system, and a Multi-Terrain Monitor that provides an assortment of camera
views. They’re joined by Crawl Control, which effectively acts as a low-speed
cruise control system so you can focus on avoiding obstacles.
Of course, if you really want to go off-roading, you should
upgrade to the Sequoia TRD Pro. It features many of the same upgrades as the
TRD Off-Road package as it comes equipped with a locking rear differential,
Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, and Downhill Assist Control. However,
they’re joined by FOX internal bypass shocks and an aluminum front skid plate.
Those aren’t the only changes as the TRD Pro can easily be distinguished by a
“TOYOTA” branded grille, which features marker lights as well as an integrated light
bar. Other highlights include a roof rack, a dual exhaust tip, and 18-inch
alloy wheels with a black finish as well as an “increased offset to provide a
wider stance.” Buyers will also find black accents, technical camo, and a
unique interior.
Moving into the cabin, the dated controls and technology
have been replaced by a modern interior that largely carries over from the
Tundra. It’s a huge improvement and one that’s been long overdue. Toyota didn’t
go into many specifics, but even the entry-level SR5 variant will come equipped
with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8-inch Toyota Audio
Multimedia system. The latter is a touch- and voice-focused infotainment
system, which features cloud-based navigation and an available Intelligent Assistant
that responds to the “Hey Toyota” wake word.
Of course, the big thing that separates the Sequoia from the
Tundra is the third-row. Unfortunately, it doesn’t appear to follow in the
footsteps of competitors by folding flat. This seems like a missed opportunity,
but Toyota made the best of the situation by equipping the model with an
exclusive sliding third-row and an adjustable cargo shelf system. As a result,
the third-row can slide 152 mm to either maximize legroom or cargo space. To
make up for the lack of fold-flat seats, the adjustable cargo shelf system
features three preset heights including one that matches the height of the rear
seats when they’re folded down.
Full details will be release closer to launch, but the
entry-level SR5 can be equipped with a Premium package that adds SofTex seats,
a power third-row, and a 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system. The package
also includes a hands-free power liftgate and 120-volt power outlets. Buyers
looking for more luxury can upgrade to the Limited trim, which adds a heated
steering wheel and heated / ventilated front seats. The model also includes
content from the SR5 Premium package as well as manual sunshades for rear
passengers.
The Platinum ups the ante with second-row captain’s chairs
as well as heating and ventilation in the first two rows. Buyers will also find
a wireless smartphone charger, a panoramic moonroof, a head-up display, and a
14-speaker JBL premium audio system. Sitting at the top of the range is the
all-new Sequoia Capstone, which echoes the recently introduced Tundra variant.
It features a unique exterior with power running boards, additional chrome
accents, and 22-inch chrome wheels. While the exterior brings the bling, the
cabin is focused on luxury as drivers will find two-tone semi-aniline leather
seats and American Walnut wood trim. They’re joined by an illuminated
“Capstone” logo on the dash as well as acoustic front door glass.
The changes continue under the hood as the Sequoia will be
offered exclusively with an i-Force Max powertrain. That’s a promising
development as it features a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 and an electric motor that
is effectively sandwiched between the engine and the 10-speed automatic
transmission. While some people might frown at the hybrid powertrain, they
shouldn’t as it develops an impressive output of 437 hp and 790 Nm of torque.
For those keeping score at home, that’s 56 hp and 246 Nm more than the old
5.7-liter V8. The good news doesn’t end there as the hybrid powertrain bests
everything in the Tahoe’s engine compartment and also compares favorably to the
Expedition’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. In higher-end variants, that engine
produces up to 440 hp and 691 Nm of torque on premium fuel. Fuel economy
estimates weren’t released, but Toyota hinted it will be a “huge improvement”
over its predecessor. That’s easy to believe as the 2022 Sequoia has a dreadful
fuel economy rating of 13 mpg city, 17 mpg highway, and 15 mpg combined with
rear-wheel drive.
While body-on-frame SUVs are a bit of a rarity today, the 2023
Sequoia keeps that tradition alive. However, it promises to be far more
comfortable than its predecessor as it features a fully boxed frame and an
architecture that is shared with the Tundra as well as the Land Cruiser and
Lexus LX. Toyota didn’t delve into specifics, but said rigidity and ride
comfort have been improved thanks to the use of new techniques such as laser
welding. The automaker also noted the SUV has been equipped with a new electric
power steering system that offers improved feel. Customers will also find a
modern multi-link rear suspension, which promises to deliver a smooth ride. The
latter can be further enhanced with features such as an Adaptive Variable
Suspension and a Load-Leveling Rear Height Control Air Suspension.
Since customers use their SUVs for more than just hauling
people, engineers increased the towing capacity by nearly 22 percent to 4,082
kg. That’s more than the Tahoe and Toyota noted the Sequoia will be offered
with a Tow Tech Package, which includes Straight Path Assist as well as a
Trailer Backup Guide. It’s also worth mentioning power folding, extending, and
retracting tow mirrors are now available on the Sequoia for the first time.
On the safety front, all Sequoias will come equipped with
the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite of driver assistance systems. It includes a
Pre-Collision System with pedestrian and bicyclist detection. The system even
works when making left-hand turns and can automatically apply the brakes if a
collision is imminent. Other notable safety features include Dynamic Radar
Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Lane Tracing
Assist which helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane. They’re joined by
Automatic High Beams, Road Sign Assist, Rear Seat Reminder, a Blind Spot Monitor,
and a Panoramic View Monitor. The list goes on as the model can also be
equipped with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Front / Rear Parking Assist with
Automatic Braking.
We’ll learn more about the Sequoia in the months ahead, but
it will be built in San Antonio, Texas and fight for a larger slice of the
full-size SUV segment.