Fifteen years after it launched the predecessor, Toyota has finally unveiled the third-gen of Sequoia SUV with a total redesign and feature upgrades from the inside out!
The Sequoia is Toyota’s first introduction to the full-size SUV market in America. It has been around since 2000 and has been through two model generations and several mid-cycle refreshes. Based on its pickup truck sibling, the Tundra, the SUV is meant for taking trips around the country with a large family or dabbling in a decent stretch of off-road trails from time to time.
Tundra-Like Muscular Looks
After 15 years of Gen 2, Toyota finally overhauled the Sequoia to modern-day standards taking inspiration from the 2022 Tundra and the mighty Land Cruiser. The design influence is clearly visible from its first glance, with the SUV inheriting the brand-new LED headlights plus the wide and muscular intake grille directly from the pickup truck. It is complemented by a rugged bumper and a flat hood to round up the frontal area.
Over to the sides, the new generation ditches the old-school estate appearance. Now, the 2023 Sequoia looks modern and aggressive with squared off-wheel arches, roof racks, 18-inch alloys (optional 20-inch wheels on TRD Pro), and Land Cruiser-inspired windows and body lines, giving a hint of its off-road capabilities. Finally, the rear-end rounds up the contemporary theme with symmetrical LED taillights, a roof spoiler, and a rugged bumper.
The 2023 Sequoia TRD Pro grade looks far more menacing with a wider stance, skid plate, off-road capable lighting systems (light bar, marking lights), and 20-inch alloys with off-road tires.
Off-Road and On-Road Improvements
Like the Tundra, Land Cruiser, and Lexus LX, the Sequoia sits on Toyota’s body-on-frame TNGA platform. The new platform reduces weight significantly while improving stiffness for better driving dynamics, off-road abilities, and heavy-duty use.
As part of its standard kit, the SUV features an independent front suspension, rack-mounted electronic power steering, and multi-link rear suspension to offer the right balance between comfort and off-roading. It also houses a load-leveling air suspension unit and adaptive variable suspension for towing capabilities. Meanwhile, the top-tier TRD Pro grade adds stiffened TRD springs, Bilstein adjustable dampers, and rear-locking differential for the advanced Multi-Terrain Response System.
All-New Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid is Standard on All Trims
Toyota has also completely revamped the powertrain, replacing the aging 5.7-liter V8 with the more efficient and powerful iForceMAX hybrid unit. The powertrain comprises a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine with a single electric motor, producing an impressive 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque. The power goes to the rear or all four wheels via a 10-speed intelligent auto transmission. The Tundra-derived powertrain is standard across all grades from SR5 to Capstone.
Hi-Tech Cabin with a 14-inch Center Touchscreen
Toyota left no stone unturned in the 2023 Sequoia cabin, with a completely redesigned feature set from the ground up. Visible right from the first glance is a generous 14-inch infotainment touchscreen with an entire connectivity suite, including support for wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 3-month SiriusXM Platinum subscription. Additionally, the display doubles up as a multi-terrain monitor and controls in-car settings. There’s also a 12.9-inch digital driver’s panel to showcase essential information about the car.
Furthermore, heated and ventilated front and rear seats are standard across the range, including USB ports, Qi wireless charging, and 12V sockets. Moving up to mid-range or the top-tier Capstone trim, customers can opt for Softex seats or Semi-Aniline leather. In addition, the SUV also gets a power-folding third row and tailgate.
The Sequoia will be manufactured at Toyota’s new plant situated in San Marino, Texas, covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty as standard. Expect pricing and roll-out information in the coming days!
Gallery: 2023 Toyota Sequoia
