2020 Toyota Sequoia Review
2020 Toyota Sequoia Review
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+220
Below Average
6.9
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
Like its namesake tree, the 2020 Toyota Sequoia is massive, stout, and may last 100 years or more. And with its dated interior design and only rudimentary modern tech, today's model actually feels ancient when compared to more modern rivals. Even so, exceptional utility, V8 brawn and Toyota's stellar reputation for durability give the Sequoia timeless appeal. And with its upgraded suspension and tough exterior styling, the TRD Pro offers a bit more stability and a lot more attitude.
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2020 Toyota Sequoia Review
byTravis Langness
Reviews Editor
Travis Langness has worked in the automotive industry since 2011. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career.
Pros
- Cargo area is one of the largest in this class
- For a big SUV, it rides pretty comfortably over bumps
- Flexible seating arrangement allows for up to eight passengers
- Respectable off-road capability for a big SUV
Cons
- Even among large SUVs, fuel economy is poor
- Audio controls and front central cupholders are hard to reach
- Newly updated infotainment feels dated on arrival
What's new
- New TRD Pro trim level for 2020
- New suspension adds off-road capability
- New 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Still part of the second Sequoia generation introduced in 2008
Overview
The Toyota Sequoia has been soldiering on for over a decade without any drastic changes. It's still using the same Tundra-based body-on-frame design and employing the same 5.7-liter V8 under the hood for power, paired with the same six-speed automatic transmission. The exterior look has stayed the same, and many of the cabin materials are beyond showing their age. It's not all bad, though. Towing is still robust, there's plenty of space for passengers, and it has real off-road chops.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Toyota Sequoia SR5 4dr SUV (5.7L 8cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.05 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$258/mo for Sequoia SR5
Sequoia SR5
vs
$223/mo
Avg. Large SUV
Unfortunately, the fuel economy is middling, the interior design outdated and, until recently, it was lacking in the tech department. Toyota attempted to bring the Sequoia closer to the 21st century by adding a new 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone compatibility, but it proved underwhelming in our testing. However, the Safety Sense-P system is now standard on all Sequoias, providing adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation and lane departure warning. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also standard.
Toyota has also added a TRD Pro trim to the lineup, giving the Sequoia a bit more street credibility and a step up on the competition when it comes to off-road capability. The TRD Pro comes equipped with upgraded Fox shocks, skid plates and cool blacked-out emblems. Plus there's significant ground clearance, and this true body-on-frame truck platform will help take this hulking SUV pretty far into the wilderness.
Despite its most recent additions, the Sequoia hasn't really leaped to the front of the class. More recently redesigned competitors such as the Ford Expedition and the Chevrolet Tahoe have it beat. But the 2020 Toyota Sequoia does have a lot to offer for shoppers looking for a full-size SUV, especially with this round of updates.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Below Average
6.9
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
Like its namesake tree, the 2020 Toyota Sequoia is massive, stout, and may last 100 years or more. And with its dated interior design and only rudimentary modern tech, today's model actually feels ancient when compared to more modern rivals. Even so, exceptional utility, V8 brawn and Toyota's stellar reputation for durability give the Sequoia timeless appeal. And with its upgraded suspension and tough exterior styling, the TRD Pro offers a bit more stability and a lot more attitude.
Rated for you by America's best test team.Performance
7/10
How does the Sequoia drive? Think of the Sequoia as a Tundra pickup with three rows and an SUV roof. It's got the same kind of effortless power from its big V8 engine, and that makes it well suited to towing trailers, boats and other toys. It also makes for easy highway passing when it's not pulling a load. That's backed up by our track-measured 0-60 mph time of 7.4 seconds, which is only a few tenths behind the class leader.
At almost 6,100 pounds, and with light steering that doesn't have much road feel, the Sequoia isn't our first pick for winding roads. But it's surprisingly agile for its size, and the upgraded TRD Pro suspension should make hill climbs and descents a little more stable and add some confidence to braking maneuvers.
At almost 6,100 pounds, and with light steering that doesn't have much road feel, the Sequoia isn't our first pick for winding roads. But it's surprisingly agile for its size, and the upgraded TRD Pro suspension should make hill climbs and descents a little more stable and add some confidence to braking maneuvers.
Comfort
7.5/10
How comfortable is the Sequoia? All-around comfort and surprising serenity are the Sequoia's main strengths. The seats don't offer much side-to-side support. They're basically just big chairs that provide solid long-haul support. The front seats are limited in adjustments, however. We do like the Sequoia's plush ride quality. It absorbs impacts and shrugs off smaller bumps not unlike a luxury SUV.
Tire and wind noise is well suppressed, but you'll hear the engine straining when it's working hard. The height-adjustable suspension helps maintain comfort when hauling heavy loads. The air conditioning blows strong and cold in the back row, but it's oddly weak up front when all three zones are pumping.
Tire and wind noise is well suppressed, but you'll hear the engine straining when it's working hard. The height-adjustable suspension helps maintain comfort when hauling heavy loads. The air conditioning blows strong and cold in the back row, but it's oddly weak up front when all three zones are pumping.
Interior
7/10
How’s the interior? The Sequoia feels spacious, but you expect that given its size. Getting into the Sequoia's first two rows requires a step up, but the running boards and grab handles help. The second-row seats tilt and slide, making for easy third-row entry, but getting out requires a limber, deliberate effort, especially for tall adults.
There is plenty of room for heads, arms, elbows and shoulders all around. The downside is that the driver and front passenger will need to stretch to reach the touchscreen and stereo controls. The third row is narrow but offers good adult legroom. It's fine for short trips, but you don't really want more than six adults in this SUV.
There is plenty of room for heads, arms, elbows and shoulders all around. The downside is that the driver and front passenger will need to stretch to reach the touchscreen and stereo controls. The third row is narrow but offers good adult legroom. It's fine for short trips, but you don't really want more than six adults in this SUV.
Technology
6.5/10
How’s the tech? Next to rival systems, the Sequoia's infotainment is sadly outclassed. The updated 7-inch touchscreen media interface already looks dated, but at least the resolution and response are decent. Device connectivity has been improved by upping the USB port count to three, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now available. But functionality was iffy, often freezing or disconnecting during our two weeks with it. Additionally there are four 12-volt ports situated about the cabin for charging various other devices.
Active safety tech, on the other hand, is fairly comprehensive and it's all standard from the base model on up. Every Sequoia has automatic emergency braking, blind-spot and cross-traffic monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. However, competitors do have things such as lane keeping assist and the adaptive cruise that works down to a stop.
Active safety tech, on the other hand, is fairly comprehensive and it's all standard from the base model on up. Every Sequoia has automatic emergency braking, blind-spot and cross-traffic monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. However, competitors do have things such as lane keeping assist and the adaptive cruise that works down to a stop.
Storage
8/10
How’s the storage? Utility is the Sequoia's game. Its cargo space, which is helped by two rows of fold-flat seats, is among the largest in the class and is arguably the key reason you buy a Sequoia. With 120.1 cubic feet of maximum space, it's only beat by the Chevrolet Suburban and the Ford Expedition Max.
With seats up, it's still impressive: 67 cubic feet with just the third row folded and 19 cubes of room for groceries with the third row up. A power liftgate enhances the ability to stuff the Sequoia full of gear. Slimmer plastic panels would increase capacity, but it's impressive as it is. The Sequoia offers so many nooks and cubbies that some personal items will disappear forever.
With seats up, it's still impressive: 67 cubic feet with just the third row folded and 19 cubes of room for groceries with the third row up. A power liftgate enhances the ability to stuff the Sequoia full of gear. Slimmer plastic panels would increase capacity, but it's impressive as it is. The Sequoia offers so many nooks and cubbies that some personal items will disappear forever.
Fuel Economy
5.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? Our 4WD Sequoia TRD Pro is EPA-rated at 14 mpg combined (13 city/17 highway). The best tank we saw was 17.9 mpg during a long road trip, averaging about 17.5 mpg of mainly highway miles. Our previously tested TRD Sport, which has the same engine, returned 14.4 mpg on our 115-mile evaluation loop, and it averaged 13.6 mpg over all of the miles we drove it. That's not particularly impressive, but it is worth noting that we more or less matched its EPA rating, which suggests that the rating is not overstated. Still, its 4x4 rivals are rated higher. The combined rating of the Ford Expedition 4x4 is 19 mpg, and the Chevrolet Tahoe and Dodge Durango share a rating of 17 mpg. Even the chunky Nissan Armada bests the Sequoia with a rating of 15 mpg combined.
Value
6.5/10
Is the Sequoia a good value? While stout and capable, the Sequoia doesn't quite feel modern enough at this price. The interior feels dated, the updated tech is still below par, and its fuel economy ranks lowest in its class. The Sequoia's cabin materials are outclassed by its rivals too, and hard-touch plastic makes it feel more like a Tundra pickup and less like a more affordable Lexus.
Toyota's record for reliability and high resale value is definitely worth something, and the ownership perks such as free early maintenance are nice to have. If the Sequoia's aging interior design and its excessive thirst for gasoline don't turn you away, then the underlying value proposition gets a bit stronger.
Toyota's record for reliability and high resale value is definitely worth something, and the ownership perks such as free early maintenance are nice to have. If the Sequoia's aging interior design and its excessive thirst for gasoline don't turn you away, then the underlying value proposition gets a bit stronger.
Wildcard
6/10
We can't recommend the Sequoia as a first choice; competitors are simply that much newer, nicer and better. But the Sequoia has a few things going for it: primarily massive interior room, a powerful and reliable engine and transmission package, oddly satisfying handling, and bulletproof Toyota construction. Compared to the more elegant Expedition, the stately Tahoe or rambunctious Durango, the Sequoia comes off a little boring and a little bland.
And while there's a bizarre, sadistic pleasure in trying to hustle the Sequoia through curves (excessive body roll means you'll reach its limits soon enough), it's more fun to simply point the Sequoia in a straight line and punch the pedal. It's also a great road-tripper.
And while there's a bizarre, sadistic pleasure in trying to hustle the Sequoia through curves (excessive body roll means you'll reach its limits soon enough), it's more fun to simply point the Sequoia in a straight line and punch the pedal. It's also a great road-tripper.
Which Sequoia does Edmunds recommend?
If you plan on doing some serious off-roading in your three-row family hauler, check out the Sequoia TRD Sport or TRD Pro models. But for everyone else, we'd recommend the base SR5 Sequoia with the optional Premium package. You get all the Sequoia's standard equipment such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, as well as the optional stuff such as heated front seats and integrated navigation.
2020 Toyota Sequoia models
The 2020 Toyota Sequoia is a full-size, three-row SUV available in five trim levels: SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Pro, Limited and Platinum. All trims are powered by a 5.7-liter V8 (381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque) paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and four-wheel drive is optional. The SR5 and Limited models seat eight passengers, while the second-row captain's chairs on the TRD Sport, TRD Pro and the Platinum reduce seating to seven.
The base SR5 comes with 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, a sunroof, tri-zone automatic climate control, a power driver's seat, a second-row bench seat, a 60/40-split reclining and fold-flat third-row bench, a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and an eight-speaker audio system. Standard safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Options for the SR5 include leather upholstery, a power-adjustable passenger seat, heated front seats, a power-reclining and -folding third-row seat, and an integrated navigation system.
The Toyota Sequoia TRD Sport has a few mechanical differences that set it apart from the rest of the Sequoia line. Its sport-tuned Bilstein dampers and stiffer front and rear anti-roll bars help the SUV handle better on the road and take bumps off the road. Other cosmetic differences include unique badging, a black grille insert and a black roof rack. The Sequoia TRD Pro builds on that equipment with Rigid foglights, running boards, special emblems, skid plates, Fox shocks and all-weather floor mats.
The Limited model adds most of the SR5's available options plus power-folding and auto-dimming exterior mirrors, a power rear liftgate, and rear side window sunshades. A premium 14-speaker JBL sound system is optional, as is a rear-seat entertainment system with a Blu-ray player.
The top-of-the-line Platinum trim level comes standard with all the Limited's features, plus an adaptive air suspension (with a load-leveling rear), ventilated front seats, heated second-row captain's chairs, a second-row center console, and a power-adjustable steering wheel.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3.5 out of 5 stars3.5/5Above Average
#7 out of 16 among Fullsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Toyota Sequoia from 2008-2022.$605/yr
vs. $614/yr
for Average Fullsize SUV
for Average Fullsize SUV
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).1.46x/yr
vs. 1.59x/yr
for Average Fullsize SUV
for Average Fullsize SUV
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).15.5%
vs. 16.7%
for Average Fullsize SUV
for Average Fullsize SUV
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 Toyota Sequoia.
5 star(53%)
4 star(25%)
3 star(9%)
2 star(3%)
1 star(10%)
32 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4 out of 5 stars
Count on It
Mac, 10/30/2019
2019 Toyota Sequoia Platinum 4dr SUV (5.7L 8cyl 6A)
Having looked at Yukon and Expedition options...very nice vehicles, when it came to a decision, I opted for tried and true. There's a peace-of-mind that accompanies the 2019 Sequoia Platinum precisely because it's old-school rock-solid dependable, has a smooth and powerful V-8, owns time-tested engineering in important places (a simple transmission and low axle ratio). Though it doesnt … have advanced much of anything like cylinder deactivation, turbos or a variable transmission, what it does have just works. 150-200k miles plus is the norm not an exception. The safety updates, functional cargo space and overall comfort just work. It's simple, not flashy or particularly attractive and doest stand out in a crowd. But years and miles from now, i'm guessing it will still be doing what it does without much complaint. That said, it would be nice to get 4-5 mpg better fuel economy, another 1000lbs of towing capacity, less sensitive steering and a larger info screen.
5 out of 5 stars
Outdated?
Former Mechnic, 06/14/2019
2019 Toyota Sequoia Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (5.7L 8cyl 6A)
I have read several reviews from automotive journalists as well as customer reviews calling Tundras and Sequoias outdated. That is exactly what makes them so spectacular (Toyota could definitely update the electronics and minor interior improvements) Toyota has made subtle improvements and changes to these models almost every year. Toyota does reverse engineering which means they are … trying to perfect what is already there. Sequoias and Tundras are the undisputed champions when it comes to durability, longevity and overall toughness.
Update: Sequoia is not invincible after all, we had to replace the belt tensioner at 181,000 miles at a cost of $209.00 with labor. Disappointing but not bad compared to my last 5 fords which ALL needed transmissions under 140k
5 out of 5 stars
Built to last, over built and bullet proof
Saddlebrooke Jim, 06/03/2020
2019 Toyota Sequoia Limited 4dr SUV 4WD (5.7L 8cyl 6A)
My first experience with the Sequoia was a used 2005 with 40,000 miles. Since it was assigned to me while I owned a 2004 Tundra purchased new, I whipped it like a government mule to see what it would take to break. 65000 miles later, a set of tires and some oil changes we auctioned it for $6500 while missing the back two rows of seats. My new 2019 Limited is an unbelievable value. The … look is solid while the ride is luxurious. Six speeds and they all work. Small screen? I have a large screen at home. So far I am averaging 16.7 mpg with the powerful V-8. This is a Land Cruiser solid as a Stryker and both the Land Cruiser and the Sequoia own the 300,000 plus mile club. Not by chance either. Crawl underneath this 6000 pound tough guy and observe the over built frame, suspension, drive train and ten inch clearance and you realize the competition is not even close. A gorgeous interior with all the latest and the minimum of things that don't and won't stand the test of time. I am most impressed with the quiet, comfortable ride sitting above it all while seeing everything on all four corners. My wife has never been happier. She stated a recent three hour drive went by without once shifting around the spacious captains chair to get comfortable.
4 out of 5 stars
Very Impressive
Michael T., 06/09/2019
2019 Toyota Sequoia Platinum 4dr SUV (5.7L 8cyl 6A)
I totally disagree with the previous review. I love my Sequoia. We test drove almost every SUV on the market before deciding to purchase ours and we haven’t had the slightest bit of buyers remorse. The resale value is incredible. The interior is very comfortable. I highly recommend!
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 Toyota Sequoia, so we've included reviews for other years of the Sequoia since its last redesign.
2020 Sequoia Highlights
SR5
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $49,980 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 15 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $258/month |
Seating | 8 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 18.9 cu.ft. |
rear wheel drive | |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the Sequoia models:
- Blind-Spot Monitor
- Detects if a vehicle is in a blind spot. If the turn signal is activated, an alert will sound.
- Pre-Collision System
- Warns the driver about an imminent front collision and can automatically apply the brakes if the driver doesn't act in time.
- Trailer Sway Control
- Detects when a trailer begins to sway and will apply braking pressure and reduce engine torque to bring it back in line.
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover18.5%
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