2025 Toyota Sequoia Expert Review: Drive, Performance & Specs Tested

The 2025 Toyota Sequoia has stepped into the full-size SUV market with some serious updates that aim to shake things up against heavyweights like the Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Ford Expedition. Built on the same platform as the Tundra, this third-generation Sequoia really shows that Toyota is serious about evolving its biggest SUV while still holding true to its values of reliability and capability.

Now, in a crowded field, the Sequoia has a unique edge thanks to its standard hybrid powertrain. This is a big deal—it sets it apart from its American counterparts. The Tahoe comes with a variety of engine options, including a diesel choice, and the Ford Expedition leans on its EcoBoost V6. But the Sequoia? It’s all-in on hybrids, striking a balance between performance and efficiency.

In terms of size, the Sequoia is definitely in the full-size game, stretching out to 208.1 inches, which is a tad shorter than the Tahoe. This makes it a great pick for families looking for three-row seating without necessarily needing those longer variations that some competitors offer. However, Toyota doesn’t provide a longer wheelbase version, which could be a downside for those needing extra cargo space.

On another note, the new 1794 Edition for 2025 signals that Toyota is acknowledging the luxury SUV scene, especially in places like Texas where these rides are super popular. This trim, alongside the already available Capstone, gives Toyota a fighting chance against the likes of the GMC Yukon Denali and Ford Expedition Platinum.

Looking at the numbers, the Sequoia seems to hold its own when it comes to resale value. Projections suggest it’ll keep around 64.5% of its value after five years and 41.4% after ten, putting it in a solid second place across all brands for value retention. This, combined with Toyota’s strong reputation for reliability, makes it an appealing option for folks thinking long-term.

About the price—starting at $64,120, the Sequoia is a bit on the higher side compared to some rivals. But hey, with that standard hybrid powertrain and a solid feature set, it kind of justifies the extra cost. If you’re looking at the top-of-the-line Capstone trim, well, that’ll set you back $85,660, which definitely crosses into luxury territory, competing with both mainstream and high-end brands.

The 2025 Sequoia’s powertrain? Well, it’s quite a change from what you’d typically expect in a full-size SUV. It’s got this advanced i-FORCE MAX hybrid system that Toyota’s cooked up. So, what does that mean? Essentially, it pairs a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine with an electric motor, giving you a hearty 437 horsepower and a whopping 583 pound-feet of torque. Impressive, right? It shows how Toyota is trying to strike a balance between power and fuel efficiency in the SUV market.

Now, the way they’ve integrated the hybrid powertrain seems to take a lot of real-world driving into account. The electric motor is situated right between the engine and the transmission, which makes for some really smooth power delivery. Plus, this hybrid system leans more towards performance rather than just focusing on being super efficient. It’s designed to be a family vehicle and a towing machine, after all. The system’s all about giving that power boost when you need it instead of just running on electric for long stretches.

Then there’s the 10-speed automatic transmission that Toyota chose. It fits the hybrid system like a glove. Shifts are smooth and decisive, and thanks to the way the transmission is designed, it knows how to use that broad torque band. When you’re towing, it’s especially smart, keeping the right gears for those long climbs and avoiding that annoying hunting between ratios.

Performance-wise, this big SUV doesn’t disappoint. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in around 5.6 seconds, and clock a quarter-mile in 14.3 seconds at 94 mph. That’s faster than a bunch of competitors, including the GMC Yukon Denali, though it’s just a touch behind the Ford Expedition Timberline.

When it comes to fuel efficiency, there’s a noticeable improvement compared to the last generation. If you’re looking at rear-wheel drive models, you’ll get about 21 mpg in the city and 24 on the highway. Four-wheel drive versions aren’t too shabby either, coming in at 19 mpg city and 22 highway. But, just a heads-up, when we tested at highway speeds of 75 mph, the numbers dipped a bit, landing around 19 mpg.

Towing? Yeah, this is where it shines. With the right setup, it can tow up to 9,520 pounds in rear-wheel drive mode. That’s better than the Chevrolet Tahoe’s 8,400-pound capacity and just edges out the Ford Expedition’s 9,300 pounds. The hybrid system kicks in here, giving you that extra torque needed to move heavy loads.

The powertrain’s refinement extends to its noise characteristics. Toyota has done an admirable job of managing the V6’s sound profile, incorporating some artificial enhancement to provide a more traditional V8-like character that many buyers in this segment prefer. The transition between electric and gasoline power remains smooth and largely unnoticeable during normal operation.

Finally, driving around town is a breeze thanks to the hybrid’s instant torque. You really feel the electric motor kicking in, especially in city traffic where it helps cover up any turbo lag. It makes the Sequoia feel a lot nimbler than you’d expect from such a big vehicle. Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone needing a family SUV that can also handle some serious towing.

The braking system highlights how Toyota prioritizes safety and control, especially for such a large SUV. So, it’s got ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels—13.9 inches up front and 13.6 inches in the back. This setup? Well, it delivers solid stopping power for a vehicle of this size.

During some performance testing, the Sequoia needed about 194 feet to come to a stop from 70 mph. That’s competitive for full-size SUVs, but hey, there’s definitely some room for improvement. A few folks have mentioned that the brake pedal can feel a bit squishy, which might take some getting used to—especially if you’re coming from another car. This squishiness is partly because of how the hybrid system integrates regenerative braking.

Speaking of that hybrid system, it does a good job of blending regenerative and traditional friction brakes—something that can be a bit tricky for other hybrids. The Sequoia, though? It handles that transition pretty well. You get decent energy capture during deceleration while still enjoying a predictable pedal feel.

When you’re driving it day-to-day, you’ll find the braking system performs well across different scenarios. The initial bite is solid, and you get a nice progressive resistance as you push the pedal down. That said, some drivers might need a little time to get used to how the pedal feels compared to other non-hybrid SUVs out there. But honestly, the learning curve isn’t too steep; most people will adapt quickly.

If you’re heading down long hills or towing something heavy, you’ll see the durability of this braking system in action. The Sequoia keeps its stopping power consistent—even when you’ve got a full load. Just a tip, though: be aware that the pedal response does change a bit when the vehicle is loaded up. Plus, there’s a trailer brake controller you can use for added confidence while towing.

The stability control system – It works hand-in-hand with the brakes to help keep things under control during emergency situations. You know, the system generally feels smooth and predictable, but some drivers might find it a little more aggressive in its interventions compared to other brands. It’s all part of Toyota’s long-standing commitment to safety.

The 2025 Sequoia shows off its flexibility, doesn’t it? It’s designed to be a solid family ride but still has what it takes to tackle some off-road adventures. Now, the steering system? It’s got a nice, consistent weight and response. But here’s the thing: some folks might think it feels lighter than what you’d expect from a vehicle of this size. So, while it makes parking a breeze, you might not get as much feedback when you’re driving a bit more aggressively.

Now, about the suspension – that varies depending on which trim you choose. The TRD Pro version, for instance, comes with special Fox shock absorbers and is set up more for off-road adventures. On the other hand, the standard models have a more classic suspension design that strikes a balance between comfort and control. If you go for the higher trims, you can even get an adaptive variable suspension system that gives you more flexibility with different driving modes.

One interesting thing to note is the Sequoia still uses a solid rear axle. That’s a bit different from the independent rear suspensions you’ll find in many of its competitors. This choice is great for off-roading and towing stability, but it does mean some trade-offs in terms of space in the third row and overall ride comfort when you compare it to rivals like the Chevrolet Tahoe or the Ford Expedition.

When it comes to the standard suspension, it does a decent job of keeping you cushioned from small bumps in the road while still handling corners and quick changes in direction pretty well. The ride is generally smooth, but you might feel those sharp jolts a bit more than you would in competitors that have independent rear suspensions. And if you opt for the bigger 22-inch wheels on the higher trims, you’ll definitely notice that difference.

For those higher-spec models with the adaptive suspension system, versatility shines through. This system can switch between multiple modes to adjust the damping rates based on how you’re driving or what the road conditions are like. Comfort mode? Super smooth over bumps. Sport mode? It tightens things up for a more engaging drive.

Then there’s the TRD Pro model, which is equipped with 2.5-inch Fox internal bypass shocks. This setup offers great off-road performance while not sacrificing too much on-road comfort. It allows for a good amount of wheel travel, keeping body control in check during everyday driving.

The 2025 Sequoia comes with a bunch of tire options that depend on what trim you choose and how you plan to use it. For the base models, you get 265/60R20 all-season tires. These are decent—they strike a nice balance between comfort and handling, plus they work well in various weather conditions. Not too noisy on the road, and they grip well enough for daily driving.

If you’re looking at the TRD Pro model, you’re in for something a bit more rugged. It boasts 285/65R18 Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires. These tires ramp up your off-road game! They grip loose surfaces like a champ while still being fairly well-behaved on the road, even with that aggressive tread. Sure, you might notice a little more road noise, but hey, it’s a fair trade-off for what you get.

Then there are the luxury trims, like the Capstone. They come with 265/50R22 tires that are all about on-road performance and looking good. Those bigger wheels and lower-profile tires definitely up the style factor, but just a heads up—they can make the ride feel a bit firmer. The Bridgestone Dueler H/T tires on these models do a solid job for all-season driving and are comfy too.

As for how long these tires last, well, they seem to meet the average expectations for the segment. But let’s be real, actual wear can vary a lot based on how you drive and the conditions you face. Most models should get you around 50,000 miles from those all-season tires, while the all-terrain ones might wear out a bit quicker, especially if you’re taking them off-road a lot.

Winter performance? That can change based on the tire choice. Typically, the all-terrain tires will give you better snow traction than the standard all-season ones. If you live in an area that gets hit hard by winter weather, it might be smart to invest in some dedicated winter tires. The Sequoia is a big vehicle, and good traction in snowy conditions is super important.

The Sequoia’s tire pressure monitoring system provides individual pressure readings for each tire, helping maintain optimal pressure for both safety and efficiency. This feature is particularly valuable given the significant impact tire pressure can have on fuel economy and handling in a vehicle of this size.

The interior marks a real shift in how Toyota designs its full-size SUVs, showcasing materials and build quality that highlights its upscale status in the lineup. At the heart of the dashboard is a striking 14-inch touchscreen display; it’s pretty much the center of attention for all the tech features, and it still keeps things user-friendly and easy to see.

The new-for-2025 1794 Edition brings distinctive interior elements that set it apart from other trim levels. The brown leather upholstery features special stitching patterns and is complemented by genuine walnut wood trim with unique engraving. This trim level effectively bridges the gap between the luxurious Capstone and the more mainstream Platinum models.

Of course, the quality of materials can change based on the trim you choose, but the overall standard is impressively high across the board. For instance, the Platinum trim comes with leather seating that has contrast stitching and a trim that looks like aluminum. On the other hand, the Capstone takes it up a notch with semi-aniline leather and extra soundproofing. Even the base SR5 models show off a commitment to quality with decent cloth upholstery and sturdy trim materials.

When you look at the instrument panel, you’ll notice it’s designed with horizontal lines that really make the cabin feel wider. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is super clear and can be set up to display different info depending on how you’re driving or what you prefer. Plus, Toyota’s choice to include physical controls for things you use a lot just shows their practical side in interior design.

Lighting in the interior is also a big deal, especially in the higher trims. LED accent lighting brings out the architectural features while also providing some useful illumination. If you opt for the panoramic moonroof, it opens up the cabin to natural light, although the way it integrates with the roof rack on some models can change how light gets into the back.

The center console is all about blending style with practicality. It’s got a big storage area that can hold some larger items. The design of the shifter and drive mode controls reflects the premium feel of the vehicle while still being easy to use. And the wireless charging pad? It’s designed vertically, which is a smart use of space to keep your devices secure.

You’ll find plenty of clever storage solutions throughout the cabin, with lots of small-item spots that go well with the larger cargo areas. The door pockets are spacious enough for big water bottles, and the center console has special spots for various necessities, including multiple USB ports for charging devices.

As for colors and trims, there’s a nice variety depending on the model, giving each trim its own vibe. The TRD Pro leans more towards technical materials with red accents, while the Capstone and 1794 Edition focus on luxurious materials and elegant color schemes. This mix lets buyers pick an interior that fits their style and how they plan to use the vehicle.

The Sequoia’s exterior design is a clever mix of modern flair and the classic look of a full-size SUV. You can see this right away at the front, where the grille design changes depending on which trim you pick. For instance, the Limited version has a lot of chrome, while the Platinum opts for a more technical mesh look, and the TRD Pro goes for a rugged vibe. It’s pretty neat how this design communicates the Sequoia’s strength while still looking like other Toyota models.

When it comes to lighting, it’s a big deal for the Sequoia’s overall style. LED headlights come standard across the board, but if you go for the higher trims, you’ll get some fancy LED setups with those sequential turn signals and cool daytime running light designs. All these elements mesh nicely with the grille and bumper, giving it a fresh, put-together look.

Moving to the side, you can’t help but notice how the Sequoia showcases its size but also cleverly minimizes its bulk. The blacked-out pillars give it a floating roof effect, which is cool, and those character lines along the sides? They add some flair and make the vehicle look a bit lower than it is. The wheel arches stand out too, especially on the TRD Pro model, highlighting its width and capability.

In 2025, there’s also the new 1794 Edition, which adds some unique touches that make it stand out from the rest. You get specific wheel designs and trim finishes that nod to its Texas roots. It’s all integrated so well that it doesn’t mess with the overall look of the Sequoia, giving it a distinct identity instead.

At the back, the design keeps up with the front’s themes. You’ll see full-width LED taillights that even have sequential turn signals on the higher trims. Plus, the tailgate has a handy rear glass section that opens separately, which is great for loading stuff in tight spots. The lower bumper also changes depending on the trim, with different finishes and exhaust designs that add to each model’s character.

Speaking of character, the wheel designs help define each trim. You’ve got 18-inch wheels on the TRD Pro, which are made for off-road adventures, and then there are the 22-inch wheels on the Capstone, designed to stand out on the road. Each design just fits perfectly with the overall vibe of the trim while keeping proportions in check.

When it comes to colors for 2025, you’ve got your classic choices like Wind Chill Pearl and Midnight Black Metallic, but they also throw in some fun options like the TRD Pro’s Mud Bath for those who want to be a little different. However, the Solar Octane orange is out for this year, showing how tastes are changing.

You can see that Toyota has put thought into aerodynamics too. Features like active grille shutters and smart airflow management help with fuel efficiency without losing that classic SUV look. It’s clear that they’ve paid attention to both style and practicality in how they designed this vehicle.

The 2025 Sequoia puts a spotlight on tech with its big 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This feature is standard on nearly all models, except for the base SR5. It runs on Toyota’s latest multimedia software, which is a nice upgrade—way more responsive and packed with features compared to older versions. The graphics are clear, and the menus are logical. That said, some tasks can take a few steps to get to, which can be a bit annoying.

If you’re into smartphones, you’ll appreciate that both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard across the board. They let you connect your phone easily. Most of the time, the system keeps a stable connection and recognizes devices quickly, although a few users have mentioned needing to restart the system due to occasional dropouts.

Moving on to the dashboard, it’s got a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that you can customize quite a bit. Drivers can choose what info they want to see—pretty handy! Plus, there’s an optional 10-inch head-up display that shows key info without being too distracting. Just keep in mind, that if you wear polarized sunglasses, visibility might be a bit tricky.

When it comes to sound, the audio systems differ based on the trim. The higher trims feature a solid 14-speaker JBL premium setup, delivering good sound quality and solid bass. Still, some other rides out there might have a fancier audio experience. But hey, the acoustic treatment in the cabin, especially in those Capstone models, does enhance the overall listening vibe.

The connected services are neat too. You get a Wi-Fi hotspot and a bunch of remote functions via Toyota’s app. You can start the car remotely, tweak the climate controls, and check the vehicle’s status—all good stuff! Just a heads up, though: some of these features might need a subscription after the free trial runs out.

For towing, the Sequoia packs a technology package that includes cool features like a trailer backup guide and straight path assist. These are super helpful if you tow every now and then, but they don’t quite match the automation levels you might find in some competitors’ offerings.

Now, let’s talk comfort! The 2025 Sequoia makes sure passengers feel good in all three rows, but there are a few trade-offs in the third row. Up front, the seats are fantastic. The 2025 model even adds massaging seats as standard on the Platinum, 1794 Edition, and Capstone trims. Plus, you’ve got 14-way power adjustments, including a power thigh extension—great for drivers of all shapes and sizes.

The climate control system is designed with comfort in mind too. It features a tri-zone automatic setup, allowing front and rear passengers to control their own temperatures. With multiple air vents scattered throughout, including some on the ceiling for those in the back rows, it really helps keep everyone comfy.

As for the second row, you’ve got options! You can choose a bench seat for three or go with captain’s chairs, which cuts the capacity to seven. Legroom is decent—about 39 inches—but the seats don’t slide back and forth, which might limit how you can arrange things. On the plus side, they do recline for those longer drives.

Getting to the third row is well thought out. The second-row seats fold and tilt to give you a decent path to the back. But, the third row does have its downsides, mainly due to the solid rear axle design which raises the floor a bit. So, adults might find themselves sitting with their knees up, which isn’t great for long trips.

Toyota has also added a bunch of handy features throughout the cabin. There are plenty of USB ports in all three rows, with both Type-A and Type-C options available. The center console has a wireless charging pad that holds your phone vertically to save some space, plus there are several 120V AC outlets for bigger devices.

When it comes to storage, they’ve clearly put some thought into what people actually need. The center console can fit larger items, and the door pockets are designed just right for water bottles and other stuff you grab often. And if you’ve got captain’s chairs in the second row, there are even more storage options to take advantage of.

The 2025 Sequoia rolls out with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 as a standard feature, which is basically the latest in their lineup of advanced driver assistance technologies. This whole package is impressive—it includes things like forward collision warning that can spot pedestrians, automated emergency braking, and even better detection for cyclists and other potential dangers on the road.

Now, when it comes to lane departure warnings and lane-keeping assistance, these systems are smart. They help you stay in your lane without being too annoying. They work great on highways and do a decent job of picking up lane markings in different situations. But, just a heads-up, they might be a bit more careful about when to intervene than some other vehicles on the market.

Then there’s the adaptive cruise control – it’s smooth sailing on the highway. It keeps a safe distance from the car ahead and adjusts speed without any jarring movements. It handles stop-and-go traffic pretty well, but, you know, it might leave bigger gaps than some folks would like when it’s super busy in the city.

Another thing that stands out in the Sequoia is its blind spot monitoring system, which is super handy, especially since this vehicle is on the larger side. It gives you clear alerts with lights in the side mirrors, and if you want, you can also use the digital rearview mirror. That thing uses a camera to give you a clear view behind, no matter how much stuff or people you’ve got in the back.

When it comes to parking, the Sequoia doesn’t hold back either. Most trims come with a 360-degree camera system, which gives you several angles to choose from and dynamic guidelines that move as you steer. The camera quality is decent, but yeah, some competitors might have sharper images when it’s dark.

Toyota focuses on passive safety in the Sequoia shows in its design. You’ve got multiple airbags and well-thought-out crumple zones. The solid build and elevated seating position give a strong sense of security. Plus, handy features like rain-sensing wipers and automatic high beams add an extra layer of safety when conditions change. So, overall, it’s a solid choice if safety is on your list.

Driving the 2025 Sequoia is quite an experience, really—it’s like a blend of a family vehicle and a tough utility ride all wrapped into one. You’ve got this i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain that kicks things up a notch. It accelerates impressively, thanks to the electric motor that steps in to fill those annoying torque gaps while the turbo kicks in. So, yeah, you get this smooth power delivery that’s surprising for a vehicle of its size.

When you hit the highway, that’s where the Sequoia shows off its more refined side. We mean, the cabin stays remarkably quiet even when you’re cruising at higher speeds. Wind noise and road sounds? They’re pretty much kept at bay, especially in the Capstone trim, which has that extra sound insulation. Plus, the adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping features really help keep you from feeling drained on those long drives.

Now, in the city, it can be a little tricky to maneuver because, well, it’s a big vehicle. But, you know, the various camera systems and parking sensors do a solid job of making things easier. The steering is light, which is great for low-speed turns, but some folks might wish for a bit more feedback when they’re going faster.

As for off-roading, it depends on the trim. The TRD Pro is the one you want if you’re serious about tackling rugged terrains. The standard four-wheel drive does just fine for moderate off-road adventures, and if you opt for the crawl control and multi-terrain select systems, you’ll feel a lot more confident when things get tough.

When it comes to ride quality, there’s a bit of a trade-off between comfort and control. The solid rear axle design can sometimes react a bit more sharply to bumps compared to vehicles with independent rear suspension, but hey, that’s where the adaptive variable suspension comes into play to smooth things out in those equipped models.

Lastly, the hybrid system has a good regenerative braking setup, though you might notice a bit of a jolt when switching from regenerative to friction braking. Still, it does a great job of recovering energy, which definitely helps with the fuel economy— impressive for a vehicle in its class, if you ask me.

The Sequoia’s second-row seating has a couple of options: you can go with a standard bench that fits three people or opt for captain’s chairs, which bring the total down to seven but offer a bit more comfort. The seats? They’re pretty cushy and angled just right for those long drives. But, hey, if you’re looking for something to slide around, you might find it a bit lacking in flexibility.

For those riding in the back, especially in the higher trims, there are plenty of nice features to enjoy. The climate controls are a breeze to reach, with vents placed in the center console and on the ceiling. Plus, if you’re in the Platinum trim or higher, you get those heated and ventilated second-row seats that are great for keeping you comfy, no matter the weather outside.

When it comes to entertainment, rear passengers aren’t left out either. There are a bunch of USB ports and even a 120V AC outlet for charging devices or plugging in larger electronics. And let’s not forget about the panoramic sunroof—available on most versions—that opens up the cabin and lets in light, though sometimes its placement with the roof rack can mess with how the light flows in.

Getting to the third row? They’ve thought about that. The second-row seats fold and tilt forward, making it easier to hop in. But, fair warning—the third row does have its quirks because of the solid rear axle design. The floor sits higher up, which can lead to a knees-up position that might not feel great for adults on long journeys.

On the bright side, the third row does have some perks, like the ability to recline and slide a bit to balance legroom between the cargo area and where the passengers sit. Plus, there are USB ports and air vents back there, and if you want to keep the sun out, there are sunshades for the rear windows.

One of the standout features for comfort back there is the tri-zone climate control system. It does a decent job of cooling or heating those rear seats, thanks to the ceiling vents. Still, some folks might find that despite all those nice touches, the seating position can be a bit of a downer for overall comfort.

The cargo area in the 2025 Sequoia has some interesting design choices—some good, some not so great. So, here’s the scoop: you’ve got about 22 cubic feet of space behind the third row. If you fold that down, you can get up to 49 cubic feet, and if you drop both rear rows, you max out at a decent 87 cubic feet. But, let’s be honest, that’s a bit behind competitors like the Chevrolet Tahoe, which can offer a whopping 122 cubic feet of cargo space.

One of the coolest features in this cargo area is the adjustable shelf system. This was designed to deal with the raised floor height thanks to the battery for the hybrid setup. You can move the shelf to different heights, which helps when you need to organize your groceries or smaller items. Plus, when you fold down the third-row seats, it helps make a flat load floor, which is handy since those seats don’t fold completely flat.

Getting into the cargo area is a breeze, thanks to a power liftgate that comes standard on most trims, and yeah, it even has a hands-free option. A neat feature from past models is the rear glass that opens separately. This is super handy when you’re in a tight parking spot or just need to grab something small without lifting the whole gate.

The cargo area’s finish quality matches the vehicle’s premium positioning, with durable materials and thoughtful touches like grocery bag hooks and tie-down points. The power-folding third-row seats, standard on upper trim levels, operate smoothly and can be controlled from both the cargo area and the second row, enhancing convenience.

However, the loading height is a bit higher compared to some rivals, thanks to how the hybrid system is laid out. This could make it tricky when you’re trying to load in heavier stuff. But hey, if you get certain trims, there’s a height-adjustable air suspension that can lower the vehicle, which is pretty cool for loading. Plus, the wide opening and the relatively square shape of the cargo area make it easier to fit in large boxes and bulky items.

As for small item storage, there are hidden compartments under the floor, though we should mention they’re kind of limited compared to some competitors—again, that hybrid system takes up some space. On the plus side, you get cargo nets and organizers to help you make the most of what’s available, and roof rails come standard on all models if you need to haul even more stuff.

So, when you look at the Sequoia, it’s important to break down its value from different angles. We’re talking about how much you pay upfront, what features you get, how much it costs to run, and what you might get back when you sell it later on. The starting price? Well, it kicks off at around $64,120 for the base SR5 and can go all the way up to $85,660 for the fancy Capstone model. Yeah, it’s definitely on the pricier side in the full-size SUV world.

Now, if we dive into the pricing, the Limited trim seems to hit a sweet spot at about $70,520. It offers a good mix of luxury and convenience features without that hefty price tag you see in the higher trims. And don’t forget the new 1794 Edition, which goes for $82,080. It’s got that unique luxury vibe but, honestly, you might want to weigh its value against the similarly-priced Platinum trim.

When it comes to operating costs, the hybrid powertrain really shines here. The Sequoia offers fuel economy ratings of 21/24 mpg (in the city and on the highway) for the rear-wheel-drive models. That’s a pretty big leap compared to those old-school V8s, meaning you could save a bunch on fuel over time. This is especially true in city driving, where hybrids tend to work their magic.

As for maintenance, Toyota has built a solid reputation for reliability, which bodes well for long-term ownership. They even throw in two years or 25,000 miles of complimentary maintenance, which is a nice perk. Plus, the hybrid system comes with a 10-year or 150,000-mile warranty, giving peace of mind. However, do keep in mind that if repairs are needed after that warranty runs out, it might hit your wallet a little harder due to the complexity of the hybrid setup.

Looking at resale value, the numbers are in the Sequoia’s favor. It has an estimated 5-year retention rate of 64.5%, which is impressive and puts it near the top of its class. This strong resale value can help balance out that higher starting price, making it more attractive for leasing too. Toyota’s reputation for reliability definitely plays a big role in these resale figures.

The base models are equipped with advanced safety features, LED lights, and a modern infotainment system. The best part is that all trims come standard with the hybrid powertrain, meaning you won’t need to pay extra to access the top engine option available.

When you stack up the total cost of ownership against other competitors, the Sequoia starts to look even better. Sure, its initial price might be higher than some, but when you consider strong resale values, decent fuel economy, and solid warranty coverage, it makes a compelling case for long-term ownership.

Of course, if you’re all about maximum cargo space or comfy third-row seating, you might find better deals with rivals like the Chevrolet Tahoe. But if what you’re after is fuel efficiency, reliability, and modern tech in a full-size SUV, the Sequoia holds its ground well—even if it’s a bit on the pricier side.