2025 Toyota Sequoia Expert Review
Reviewed by Billy Rehbock
Combining rugged capability with a fuel-saving hybrid powertrain, the Sequoia is Toyota's largest three-row SUV. The current generation was introduced for 2023, and in many ways, it is an enclosed version of the Toyota Tundra pickup truck. Many Sequoia trim levels are offered, ranging from utilitarian, to luxurious to off-road ready. Primary competitors include the Jeep Wagoneer, Chevrolet Tahoe, and Nissan Armada.
What’s New
●The 1794 trim
●Massaging front seats standard on 1794, Platinum, and Capstone trims
●Tow Tech package now includes antenna and Wi-Fi trailer camera
●Mudbath paint added for TRD Pro trim
What We Think
A standard hybrid powertrain makes the Sequoia unique among full-size three-row SUVs. Although it delivers better fuel economy and acceleration than most other vehicles in the segment, the hybrid system can exhibit delayed responses and uncomfortable lurches. Refinement is lacking in the Sequoia's handling, too, as it jiggles over bumps and rolls ponderously through corners. Perhaps Toyota will make adjustments for the 2025 model.
Clever touches such as an adjustable cargo floor and steps leading into the third row benefit the Sequoia's family-friendly versatility. Toyota's standard driver assist features are very useful, and its latest infotainment interface generally functions well. Even with its large size, however, rival SUVs simply offer more passenger and cargo space.
Unlike most Toyota models, value is another concern for the Sequoia—in models we've tested so far, it generally doesn't deliver the quality and engineering acumen to justify its price tag. As much as we wanted to like the tough TRD Pro model, it just seemed too expensive. Perhaps we’ll feel differently about the new 1794 trim, which comes with upscale walnut wood-grain trim and massaging seats. For drivers seeking a three-row hybrid Toyota, we'd suggest checking out the Grand Highlander or Sienna—far more efficient and less expensive than the Sequoia. For drivers seeking a true full-size three-row SUV, we prefer other options to the Sequoia.
Is the Sequoia a Hybrid?
All Sequoia models use a hybrid powertrain that combines a 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 with an electric motor. This setup produces 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque, which is sent through a 10-speed automatic transmission to standard RWD or available 4WD. In MotorTrend testing, a Sequoia Capstone accelerated from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds, while a TRD Pro model did the same in 6.2 seconds. Fuel economy is rated at 21/24 mpg city/highway with RWD, and 19/22 mpg with 4WD. For this segment, those city mpg numbers are impressive.
What Is the 2025 Toyota Sequoia 1794?
Toyota adds a new trim to the 2025 Sequoia lineup in the form of its Texas-inspired 1794 variant. Long offered as a special trim for the Tundra pickup truck, the Sequoia 1794 nods to the foundational year of the ranch near San Antonio where Toyota has built trucks and SUVs since 2006. The current-generation Sequoia is the first SUV to be assembled at this site, as acknowledged by the new trim.
Equipment includes walnut wood-grain interior accents, 20-inch wheels, second-row captain’s chairs, a panoramic roof, and the Tow Tech package. Toyota also includes a trim-specific version of its heated, ventilated, and massaging seats. No 1794 edition model is complete without badging, and this version of the Sequoia is appropriately equipped. In addition to the 1794, Toyota offers the following Sequoia trims: SR5, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro, and Capstone.
Safety Ratings and Features
All Sequoia trim levels are equipped with Toyota Safety Sense driver assist and active safety features. Among these are front and rear automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beams. Eight airbags are also standard.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Depending on trim level, the Sequoia comes equipped with a bench seat or captain's chairs in the second row. Although the Sequoia makes good use of its interior space, there's no denying that it's smaller inside than some of its main rivals, particularly in maximum cargo capacity. When the sliding third row is in its rearmost position, there's very little cargo space.
