Update: ‘Overlanding Sequoia TRD Off-Road’ section added. Show
The Toyota Sequoia is an old American favorite with plenty of history. The second-gen Sequoia is thirteen years old, and though it has fallen behind competitors in recent years, it has overall had a fruitful outing in the market. And now, a new 2023 Toyota Sequoia with a hybrid powertrain looks to take the fight to Chevy and Ford’s models in the aspects of design, features, fuel efficiency, handling, and towing. The new Sequoia is key for Toyota in North America as, after the retirement of the Land Cruiser, the Sequoia is the brand’s SUV flagship. Toyota has sold more than 300,000 units of the Sequoia in the first two generations. The company aims to triple its sales volume with the complete makeover for the third generation. Here’s what we know about the Toyota Sequoia redesign: Target customersThe target buyers of the 2023 Toyota Sequoia are older millennials and Gen Xers with kids as well as active empty nesters who remain close to their families, Joe Moses, General Manager, Vehicle Marketing & Communications (Trucks and SUVs), Toyota North America, said during a press briefing earlier this year (via YouTube/AutoNetwork). These are customers who want to “live legendary” in all aspects, Moses added. There were already over 100,000 hand-raisers for the 2023 Toyota Sequoia at this time (via YouTube/AutoNetwork). DesignThe 2023 Toyota Sequoia features drastic changes on the design front. It builds on the 2022 Toyota Tundra’s “technical muscle” design theme, adding the style and sophistication one would expect from a passenger derivative. Toyota has not revealed the dimensions, but the redesigned model looks bigger than its predecessor. Front At the front, the 2023 Sequoia flaunts a visibly dominating design, thanks to its larger, hexagonal radiator grille, the T-shaped LED headlamps, a more prominent hood, a chunkier bumper, and a silver skid plate.  Side On the sides, the clearly defined angular character lines and the squared wheel arches, along with the depressed section above that highlights their shape, provide a tough appearance to the 2023 Sequoia. Unlike in the previous model, the rear quarter glass merges with the windows, and the front three pillars are black. The D-pillars are sharply raked, underlining the SUV’s modern character. Lexus enthusiasts will spot an uncanny resemblance to the third-gen LX in the greenhouse. Rear Moving to the rear, the slim horizontal tail lights extend onto the shoulders. The new bumper is sleeker, adding sophistication to the look of the redesigned model. In contrast, the new silver skid plate tries to augment the ruggedness. A silver tailgate applique between the tail lights and the model name inscription below the license plate area in block letters are among the other visual highlights at the rear. Toyota could’ve offered a sliding rear glass in the 2023 Sequoia, but it was quite challenging, and that’s why it went for a raisable rear glass. Mike Sweers, Executive Chief Engineer Truck Programs Commercial Vehicle, Toyota Motor North America, Research and Development, spoke about the 2023 Sequoia’s design and development in detail to TFLtalk (via YouTube)’s Andre Smirnov. He said that Toyota adopted a hatch instead of a sliding glass at the rear because there’s an aluminum back door and it was difficult to use a flat glass with the styling Toyota’s designers at El Segundo (California)-based Calty Design Research wanted.
Easter egg on the windshield
The above tweet is from YouTuber Doug DeMuro, and it shows an easter egg of the 2023 Sequoia. Toyota has inscribed “Badass Trucks” in Morse Code on the windshield. The company told Road & Track the all-new Tundra also features this Morse Code on its windshield. PlatformAs expected, the 2023 Sequoia rides on a body-on-frame chassis with a fully boxed frame, which is shared with the new Tundra. Referred to by Toyota as the TNGA-F platform, it debuted in the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 and now underpins the Lexus LX, too. According to Toyota, the core objective of this platform is to provide excellent handling while also delivering supreme comfort and off-road capability. New techniques have made this platform more rigid over the previous generation Sequoia, such as a new laser welding technology that helps reduce mass and weight in areas it’s not needed while reinforcing the areas that need it most. SuspensionLike the Tundra, the 2023 Sequoia gets an independent front suspension and adopts a new rack-mounted electronic power steering system that Toyota says improves the steering feel, whereas the rear sees a multi-link suspension. Also seen on the 2023 Toyota Sequoia is the Load-Leveling Rear Height Control Air Suspension and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) to improve the towing capabilities of the SUV. Sweers told TFLtalk that Toyota wanted to improve the Sequoia without changing its overall size so that it remains “garageable.” The company changed the second-row seat a couple of distances to the first-row seat a little bit. It also lowered the front seats and gave a more comfortable seating position for the driver and front passenger. Thanks to a lower hip point, tall drivers and front passengers wouldn’t bump their heads anymore.
Sweers said that Toyota went for a multi-link rear suspension instead of an independent rear suspension like in the predecessor because it was no longer necessary. The company was able to achieve a better ride quality out of the TNGA-F platform, so it was okay to have a multi-link setup instead now. This platform allowed a lot of component sharing as well. The Sequoia TRD Pro (covered in the section down below), for instance, shares a lot of components with the Land Cruiser 300.
Speaking to YouTube channel MotoManTV (video released on February 7, 2022), Sweers interestingly revealed that Toyota initially planned to discontinue the Sequoia when it introduced the third-gen Tundra. However, Toyota would lose its presence in the full-size SUV segment in the U.S. with the discontinuation of the Land Cruiser and Sequoia. By keeping the Sequoia close to the new Tundra with the TNGA-F platform and lowering its development and production costs, he succeeded in convincing the board. Interior & FeaturesThe interior of the 2023 Toyota Sequoia is a straight lift from the Tundra. However, the trims and some plastic elements are spruced up with faux wood panels or glossy paint to appease the family car buyer. Seating & cargo spaceThe 2023 Sequoia can be had with either second-row bench seats or captain’s chairs, which can be reclined or tumbled to improve luggage capacity or comfort. For the third row, Toyota has given the SUV reclining back seats in addition to what the company claims is a segment-first slide feature which allows the row to move fore or aft with 6 inches of adjustment range. In addition, an adjustable cargo shelf system with optionally folding third-row seats ensures cargo can be stored in various configurations and sizes. The maximum cargo volume is much lesser than the outgoing model (120.1 cu. ft.) – 86.9 cu. ft. The hybrid system’s battery pack mounted under the third-row seats is probably responsible for the space reduction. Customers can choose between fabric-, SofTex-, leather-, TRD Pro Softex-, and Semi-aniline leather-trimmed seats depending on the configuration. Toyota Audio Multimedia systemComing to the feature list, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia is available with the locally-developed Toyota Audio Multimedia system, which, depending on the grade chosen, has screen sizes measuring from 8 to 14 inches, with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, saved user profiles, cloud-based navigation, and a virtual assistant. Other noteworthy features include a digital display for the rearview mirror, a Panoramic View Monitor which uses the cameras aboard the SUV for multiple view angles, a hitch view to assist with trailer connections, optional power-folding and extending tow mirrors, hands-free liftgate, 120V power outlets, heated/ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, a premium JBL sound system, panoramic moonroof, Head-Up Display, LED headlights and taillights with sequential turn signals, rain-sensing wipers, and Qi wireless charging. SafetyToyota Safety Sense 2.5 that includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and much more in the 2023 Sequoia. Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Automatic High Beams, and Rear Seat Reminder, and more is standard in the 2023 Sequoia. Other noteworthy standard safety features include Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking. Toyota Sequoia Capstone Like the 2023 Tundra, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia is available in a new Capstone grade. The luxury-focused grade offers a more sophisticated styling and extra comfort. It includes 22-inch chrome wheels and unique chrome accents that give it an upscale appearance. This is the first time that 22-inch chrome wheels are available in a Sequoia, and they are exclusive to this range-topping grade. Another exterior highlight of the Capstone grade is power running boards. The interior of the 2023 Sequoia Capstone packs luxury-grade, perforated seats in a distinctive black-and-white color scheme, a Capstone logo on the dashboard, and exclusive acoustic glass in the front doors. Toyota has accented the center console and passenger-side dashboard with American Walnut and an open-pore finish. 2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD packages2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD SportThe optional TRD Sport package on the 2023 Toyota Sequoia upgrades the standard 18-inch wheels to 20-inch matte-black TRD wheels, TRD sport-tuned Bilstein monotube shocks, and TRD-tuned springs. 2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Off-RoadThe TRD Off-Road package, on the other hand, builds on its off-road character thanks to a selectable locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select that helps controls wheel spin for improved traction, Downhill Assist Control, Crawl Control, and a Multi-Terrain Monitor to provide a better view of hard-to-see spots for the driver. 2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD ProLike its predecessor, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia is available in a TRD Pro grade for extra-rugged styling and greater off-roading capabilities. As an off-roader, it packs TRD-tuned FOX internal bypass shock absorbers, a quarter-inch aluminum TRD front skid plate, selectable locking rear diff, Crawl Control, and Downhill Assist Control.
The “TOYOTA” grille featuring marker lights and an integrated TRD light bar, exclusive 18-inch TRD alloy wheels, TRD roof rack, and a twin-tip TRD Pro exhaust make the 2023 Sequoia TRD Pro look ready for adventures. If that doesn’t cut it, there’s a special Solar Octane paint option. Inside, the TRD Pro grade of the all-new Sequoia includes premium equipment such as TRD heated steering wheel, seats and shift knob featuring TRD accents, and individual second-row seats. SpecificationsAll 2023 Sequoias feature the twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 hybrid i-FORCE MAX powertrain. First unveiled on Tundra, this hybrid unit produces 437 hp and 583 lb.-ft. of torque, and comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain is packaged such that the motor (generator) is located within the bell housing between the engine and the transmission. A 1.87 kWh Nickel-Metal Hydride battery powers the motor in the case of the Sequoia. Drive modesThe SUV can be had as a 2WD or 4WD, whereas range-topping variants come only as a 4WD with a driver-selectable lever to toggle between 2WD, 4WD High, or 4WD Low. Additionally, a drive mode select switch lets the driver choose between Eco, Normal, and Sport modes, while the load-leveling rear height control air suspension includes settings for Comfort, Sport S+ and Custom. When set on Sport or Sport+, the i-FORCE MAX powertrain makes use of the electric motor’s instantaneous responsiveness to accelerate the SUV, though we don’t know the sprint times just as yet. Compared to the outgoing Sequoia, the new model offers an approximately 26 percent higher towing capability, of up to 9,520 pounds. 2023 Toyota Sequoia gas mileageThe 2023 Sequoia 2WD delivers an EPA-est. fuel economy of 21 mpg (city)/22 mpg (highway)/22 mpg (combined) in all the four grades (SR5, Limited, Platinum, and Capstone). The 2023 Sequoia 4WD is available in five grades (SR5, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro, and Capstone), and it returns 19 mpg (city)/22 mpg (highway)/20 mpg (combined) EPA-est. fuel economy across the 4WD range.
2023 Toyota Sequoia ReviewsThe 2023 Sequoia makes a solid first impression in terms of design, but the interior is impractical, according to Motor1. The captain seats are fixed, and they don’t slide. The third-row slides, either to open up leg room or to improve boot space. If both are necessary at any given point in time, customers will struggle with space. That said, the third row doesn’t fold flat because the new live rear axle takes up space underneath, so sliding items up the boot floor isn’t convenient. Replacing its predecessor’s independent rear suspension is technically a step backward—but customers who wish for a plush ride quality can cough up extra for the available rear air suspension. As per Motor Trend, the SUV’s iForce-Max 3.6-liter Twin-Turbo V6 hybrid engine is the real highlight. It makes the hefty SUV move effortlessly and with verve. Thanks to the electric motors, the Sequoia accelerates briskly from a standstill, thanks to the instant torque from the hybrid powertrain that eliminates turbo lag. Getting up to speeds is easy thanks to 437 hp and 583 lb-ft at your disposal. Car and Driver‘s review also appreciates the engine, but the handling is critiqued. Though it has a light and precise steering, the SUV doesn’t feel agile because of its size and weight. It also has a sponge-like brake pedal feel, which can sap the driver’s confidence. That said, the ride quality is comfortable, and the NVH levels are low, contributing to a serene cabin experience. Price & Release DateThe 2023 Toyota Sequoia’s prices (MSRP excl. USD 1,595 DPH fee) range from USD 58,300 to USD 78,300. Prospective customers are seeing insane dealer markups of as high as USD 30,000 on MSRP owing to high demand, going by discussions on some online groups and forums. However, a lucky few have been able to order it at MSRP. The 2023 Sequoia started arriving at dealerships in the U.S in October. In time for the market launch, Toyota released a 30-second commercial on October 10, 2022. Titled ‘Campfire Stories,’ the spot showcases the full-size SUV’s impressive towing capability and versatility. Celestial Silver, White, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Army Green, Wind Chill Pearl (costs extra), Lunar Rock, Blueprint, Smoked Mesquite, Midnight Black Metallic, Supersonic Red (costs extra), and TRD-exclusive Solar Octane are the colors in which Toyota offers the 2023 Sequoia in the U.S.
Overlanding Sequoia TRD Off-RoadThroughout the year, Toyota has been conducting marketing activities to increase customer interest. While dealers start selling the first 2023 Sequoias, Toyota is showcasing the first modified 2023 Sequoias at the 2022 SEMA Show (November 1-4, 2022) in Las Vegas. One of these custom builds is particularly interesting, having been developed by expert off-road enthusiasts at 4WD Toyota Owner Media. Dubbed “The Ultimate Overlanding Sequoia TRD Off-Road,” the modified 2023 Sequoia has ToyTec coilovers, shocks, and coil springs, which give it a three-inch lift. Also part of the special suspension set-up are Camburg KINETIK upper control arms and 6061-T6 billet aluminum rear trailing arms. CBI Offroad skid plates, rock sliders, front bumper, and rear bumper with dual swingouts can provide the modified 2023 Sequoia enhanced protection on off-road trails. 4WD Toyota Owner Media has swapped the factory wheels and tires with 706 Bead Grip Method Race Wheels and LT285/75R17 (34.1 in.) Toyo® Open Country M/T tires, respectively. These are a few of the many mods the off-road experts have done, which you can check out in the video embedded below: Video Source: YouTube/4WD Toyota Owner Magazine Toyota Sequoia U.S. salesToyota Sequoia sales in the U.S. increased by 9.6% in 2021 compared to 2020, with 8,070 units sold — nothing to write home about. In the first three quarters of 2022, 489 units of the Sequoia were sold, 91.9% lesser compared to January-September 2021 (6,072 units). However, this is explained by the company ending production of the outgoing model to welcome the new-generation hybrid SUV. The electrified Sequoia should offer significant growth to the nameplate, as it tries to narrow its gap between the Chevy Tahoe and Ford Expedition in 2023.
Toyota expects to sell 1.5-1.8 million electrified vehicles (hybrids, plug-in hybrids, battery-electric and fuel cell electric cars) in the U.S. by 2030. In the first half of 2022, the company sold 241,571 electrified vehicles in the country. Currently, it has 14 electrified models in the line-up, including the all-electric bZ4X. TopElectricSUV saysThe long-overdue third-gen Sequoia is a giant leap over its predecessor and a great family SUV for those who have occasional adventures off the road. Toyota’s new flagship SUV in the U.S. offers a brand-new platform shared with the latest Land Cruiser, smarter looks, a notably more powerful, torquier, and more efficient engine with hybrid technology, an all-new, North American-developed infotainment system, and enhanced off-roading capabilities. While there are cheaper and more space-focused alternatives in the market from American brands, we feel that Toyota loyalists and Sequoia fans will look no further! What is the 2023 Toyota Sequoia release date?2023 Toyota Sequoia deliveries in the U.S. have begun. What is the 2023 Toyota Sequoia price?The 2023 Toyota Sequoia costs USD 58,300 (excl. USD 1,595 DPH fee) onwards in the U.S. Which full-size SUVs are competitors to 2023 Toyota Sequoia?Competitors include the Chevrolet Tahoe, the Ford Expedition, and the Dodge Durango. Featured Image Source: Toyota With a Master’s Degree in Business Management & Administration, I’ve been working as an International Automotive News Editor since 2014, and have gained a wealth of knowledge and insight into hybrid and electric vehicles. When can I expect my Toyota Sequoia 2023?According to Toyota, the 2023 Sequoia will be released late summer 2022. The 2023 model of this three-row, full-size SUV currently appears on Toyota's website, but it looks like it's not quite available just yet. Keep an eye on your local dealership for updates, and happy shopping!
How much will the 2023 Sequoia TRD Pro cost?The 2023 Toyota Sequoia starts at $58,300, plus a destination charge of $1,495. A midrange 4×4 Limited begins at $67,700, while the decadent Capstone 4×4 model comes in at $78,300.
Does 2023 Sequoia have heads up display?Designed to be spacious with luxury as its core, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia features a panoramic moonroof, rich leather-trimmed seating, heated and ventilated front, and back seats, and a 14-inch touchscreen display with a 10-inch Head-up Display (HUD).
Does the 2023 Toyota Sequoia have heated steering wheel?FOX®34 Internal Bypass shocks with rear piggyback reservoirs on the outside and TRD-stitched seating, TRD heated steering wheel and standard second-row captain's chairs on the inside, and you're ready for a confident, comfortable ride — on or off the trail. comes standard.
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