2023 Toyota Sequoia Review: A Three-Row Prius?
Toyota has been a pioneer in the hybrid car market, with the Prius becoming the iconic hybrid vehicle of the past two decades. The brand has extended its hybrid technology to nearly every model in its lineup, including full-sized trucks and SUVs. The 2023 Toyota Sequoia is a prime example of Toyota’s commitment to hybridization in its larger vehicles. In this article, we will explore how the Sequoia performs in the real world and whether it lives up to its fuel efficiency claims.
Size and Capability
The 2023 Toyota Sequoia is a massive SUV, measuring 208.1 inches long and 79.6 inches wide, with a 122.0-inch wheelbase. It is designed to cater to buyers who require a spacious and capable vehicle. With four-wheel drive, the Sequoia can tow up to 8,980 pounds, making it suitable for hauling boats, horses, or cars.
Fuel Efficiency
The Sequoia’s hybrid powertrain offers impressive electrically-assisted torque of 583 lb-ft. However, the fuel economy falls short of expectations. While the EPA estimates a combined fuel economy of 20 mpg, real-world tests have shown readings in the 17 mpg range. This is not a significant improvement compared to V8-powered domestic rivals. It’s worth noting that the larger 22-inch wheels on the top-level Capstone trim may impact fuel efficiency slightly.
Comfort and Ride Quality
Despite its size, the Sequoia’s comfort and ride quality leave something to be desired. Competitors have transitioned to independent rear suspension, but the Sequoia still relies on a live rear axle borrowed from its platform mate, the Tundra. This setup results in a less plush ride, especially when encountering mid-corner bumps. The combination of a live axle and hybridization also affects rear headroom, as the battery is located above the axle, making the third-row seat less spacious for taller passengers.
Toyota’s Approach to Mainstream Vehicles
One criticism of Toyota is its reluctance to push the boundaries with its mainstream vehicles. While the Sequoia is positioned as a full-size luxury SUV, it feels like Toyota is content with relying on its legendary customer loyalty and reputation for reliability rather than striving to build market-leading vehicles. Enthusiasts within Toyota’s engineering and product planning teams have shown their capabilities with models like the GR Corolla, but these innovations often don’t translate to the brand’s volume models.
Conclusion
The 2023 Toyota Sequoia is a capable and spacious SUV that will likely sell well due to Toyota’s loyal customer base. However, it falls short compared to competitors who are building SUVs with fewer compromises. The fuel efficiency, ride quality, and rear headroom are areas where the Sequoia could be improved. Toyota has the potential to create market-leading vehicles, but it seems to hold back on its mainstream models. As a result, the Sequoia feels like more of the same rather than a groundbreaking offering in the full-size SUV segment.
In conclusion, while the 2023 Toyota Sequoia offers hybrid technology in a large SUV package, it doesn’t quite live up to expectations. Buyers looking for a more fuel-efficient and comfortable option may find better alternatives among the competition. Toyota has the opportunity to innovate and create market-leading vehicles, but it remains to be seen if they will take that leap in their future offerings.
[Images: © 2023 Chris Tonn/TTAC.com]
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