It’s time to put the all-new 2023 Toyota Sequoia to a real-world test. Toyota’s newest and largest truck-based SUV has a new chassis, suspension, and a hybrid powertrain. Sequoia’s towing rating is increased by about 2,000 lbs (over the previous generation) to 9,520 lbs for 2WD models. I put it to the test in Texas by towing a camping trailer and a large ski/wakeboard boat.
2023 Toyota Sequoia
Under the hood is a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that is mated to an electric motor and a traditional 10-speed automatic transmission. Total power output is rated at 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque. It rides on a fully-boxed steel frame, that is largely shared with the new Tundra. Sequoia’s wheelbase (122 inches) is about 23 inches shorter than that of the Tundra.
Sequoia’s maximum payload capacity is 1,730 lbs for a two-wheel-drive base model. This represents an approximately 300 lbs improvement over the previous generation. While the power, expected efficiency, and capability go up – so does the starting price. The new 2023 Sequoia SR5 two-wheel-drive starts at $58,300 (plus $1,495 shipping and handling) for a total of $59,795. Addition a 4×4 system adds $3,000 to the price. This represents an approximate $8,000 increase in price over the previous generation. This is a steep climb in price.
- Sequoia SR5: $58,300
- Sequoia SR5 4×4: $61,300
- Sequoia Limited: $64,700
- Sequoia Limited 4×4: $67,700
- Sequoia Platinum: $70,900
- Sequoia Platinum 4×4: $73,900
- Sequoia Capstone: $75,300
- Sequoia Capstone 4×4: $78,300
- Sequoia TRD Pro: $76,900
There is a large $20K price spread between a base new Sequoia and the luxurious Capstone 4×4. These prices are competitive in the segment. While the starting price is more than competition from GM, Ford, Jeep, and Nissan – the luxurious Capstone’s pricing is fairly aggressive. A fully-features Chevy Tahoe High Country or a Ford Expedition Platinum have sticker prices north of $82,000.
If you are concerned about the new Sequoia’s suspension setup, don’t be. It’s very comfortable and compliant while driving empty, and it is very stable with towing heavy. I had an opportunity to tow a nearly 5,000 lbs Airstream camping trailer and a new Tige RZX boat that is pushing closer to 8,000 lbs with the trailer. In all cases, the new Sequoia drove in a confidence-inspiring fashion. The hybrid powertrain’s torque and horsepower are delivered very smoothly and the acceleration is very quick.
Check out the full video review at the TFLtruck Youtube channel.