The 2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro is not your average SUV; it’s a powerhouse capable of conquering any terrain, all while comfortably seating up to seven passengers. But, as with any vehicle, there are trade-offs to consider. Is it worth the hefty price tag and the fuel-hungry hybrid powertrain? Let’s delve into the details and find out.
The Sequoia TRD Pro is built on the latest Sequoia platform, sharing its DNA with the Tundra pickup truck. The TRD Pro version adds off-road enhancements like upgraded Fox shocks, a front skid plate, a locking rear differential, and robust 18-inch forged wheels wrapped in 33-inch tires. Its rugged body armor, eye-catching roof rack, and TRD badges complete the rugged look.
Under the hood, the Sequoia TRD Pro boasts the iForce MAX hybrid powertrain, combining a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 engine with an electric motor for a robust 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque. That’s a substantial amount of power for a full-size SUV. In fact, it’s quick, accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds. The power delivery is impressively smooth, thanks to the 10-speed automatic transmission and electric assist. The hybrid system even helps with fuel economy, though not dramatically. The Sequoia TRD Pro manages an estimated 12.6 liters per 100 km in the city and 10.5 liters per 100 km on the highway, better than its predecessor. For comparison, the Ford Expedition Timberline achieves 16.8 liters per 100 km in the city and 12.7 liters per 100 km on the highway, while the GMC Yukon AT4 returns 15.7 liters per 100 km in the city and 14.1 liters per 100 km on the highway.
The Sequoia TRD Pro isn’t just a speed demon on the pavement; it’s a formidable off-roader. Its four-wheel-drive system offers various terrain modes, including mud, sand, rock, and snow. Crawl control automatically adjusts throttle and brakes to conquer obstacles, while the multi-terrain view monitor displays your surroundings on the touchscreen. This SUV handles steep inclines, rocky trails, and deep ruts with confidence, thanks to ample ground clearance, approach and departure angles. However, the only downside to this off-road prowess. On regular roads, the ride feels stiff and bumpy, especially on rough surfaces. The steering is vague and slow, making the Sequoia feel cumbersome around corners. The brakes are strong but can be grabby, requiring a delicate touch.
Inside, the Sequoia TRD Pro offers generous space and features but doesn’t quite reach the heights of luxury or practicality. The front seats are supportive and heated but lack ventilation. Second-row captain’s chairs provide ample room but can’t slide or be removed. The third-row bench is power-folding and split-folding but not spacious. Lacking practicality the seats were unable to fold flush, making a flat load floor, which adds some difficulties playing Tetris with your belongings. Cargo space is limited for a full-size SUV, with just 326 liters behind the third row and 2,461 liters behind the first row with both rows stowed.
There are some noteworthy features, including a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a JBL sound system with 14 speakers, a panoramic sunroof, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. This accompanied with an abundance of storage cubbies and cup holders, finding a place to stash your snacks and bottles for those long trips is easy. Included, is a 120-volt outlet in both the second row and trunk area. However, it misses out on certain expected features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, a head-up display, a wireless charging pad, and a rear-seat entertainment system.
The 2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro represents an enticing proposition for those who appreciate the thrill of power and capability, without compromising on comfort and style. Whether you’re an off-road enthusiast or simply seeking a top-tier SUV, the Sequoia TRD Pro is poised to exceed your expectations.
- Price Point:
- Starting MSRP $76,050
- Powertrain and Performance:
- 3.5-liter Twin Turbo V6 Hybrid Engine
- 437 horsepower
- 583 lb-ft of torque
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Drivability and Handling:
- Responsive steering
- Adaptive suspension system
- TRD-tuned Fox shock absorbers
- Agile handling and maneuverability
- Off-Road Excellence:
- Skid plates
- Chunky all-terrain tires
- Multi-Terrain Select system
- 4WD system with a two-speed transfer case
- Interior Comfort and Technology:
- Leather-trimmed seats
- Intuitive infotainment system
- 7-inch touchscreen
- JBL premium audio system
- Fuel Efficiency:
- Estimated 12.6 L/100km in the city
- Estimated 10.5 L/100km on the highway
This article has a lot of errors. 5.7L engine is not available anymore. the 2023 sequoia comes with a V6 3.5L
Much appreciated, we gathered some of the wrong information from the previous year. Cheers!