2021 Toyota Sequoia Review

Name: 2021 Toyota Sequoia Review
Brand: Toyota
Price: 43999 USD

Toyota Sequoia Limited 4dr SUV Exterior Shown

Toyota Sequoia Nightshade Special Edition 4dr SUV Exterior

+267

Like its namesake tree, the Toyota Sequoia is massive, stout, and may last 100 years or more. And with its dated interior design and 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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2021 Toyota Sequoia Review

byReese Counts^{Vehicle Test Editor
Reese Counts has worked in the automotive industry since he started as an intern at Edmunds in 2015. He has written or edited thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Reese is a vehicle test editor at Edmunds and has also contributed to Autoblog. Reese has also been featured on Yahoo! Finance, Engadget and AOL reviewing cars and covering automotive technology, auto shows and more. Reese learned to drive in his father's C4 Chevrolet Corvette and now owns his grandfather's 1999 Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG. A love for cars runs deep in his family.}

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
Recently updated infotainment system already feels dated

What's new

Nightshade package debuts with blacked-out exterior trim
Part of the second Sequoia generation introduced in 2008

Overview

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia is largely unchanged from the vehicle that debuted way back in 2008. It's a truck-based full-size SUV, an increasing rarity as automakers have rolled out smaller, more efficient car-based crossover SUVs. As such, the Sequoia shares more than a little with the Toyota Tundra pickup, including a powerful 5.7-liter V8. The stout frame and potent V8 give the Sequoia stronger tow ratings than any crossover, and the large footprint means there's decent passenger space. Toyota has released a steady stream of updates over the years, adding revamped tech, a suite of driver aids and several packages that make the Sequoia reasonably capable off-road.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2021 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 $3.01 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$254/mo

$222/mo

Avg. Large SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

Those updates have helped keep the Sequoia from feeling too stale. Still, it's hard to make a compelling case for it when you compare it to newer, much more modern rivals such as the Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, Ford Expedition and Nissan Armada. All of those ride on newer platforms, use more powerful and more fuel-efficient engines, and feature tech that didn't feel behind the pack the second it was introduced. While we like the Sequoia's generous cargo space and genuine off-road credentials, we highly recommend giving the competition a thorough look. It's more expensive, but the Toyota Land Cruiser is worth checking out too.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict^{The 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

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 about 6,000 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, however, are limited in adjustments. 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 you're 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.

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 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 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.

Fuel Economy

5.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? Our 4WD Sequoia TRD Pro gets an EPA-estimated 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 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 figure, which suggests that the estimate is not overstated. Still, its 4x4 rivals are rated higher. The combined rating of the Ford Expedition 4x4 is 19 mpg, the Chevrolet Tahoe's is 18 mpg and the Dodge Durango's is 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.

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. But compared to the more elegant Expedition, the stately Tahoe or rambunctious Durango, the Sequoia comes off a little boring and 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.

Which Sequoia does Edmunds recommend?

The TRD Sport and TRD Pro trims are capable machines if you plan to do any off-roading. But for most people, we suggest going with the base SR5 trim with the available Premium package, which adds features including heated front seats and navigation.

2021 Toyota Sequoia models

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia is available in six trim levels: SR5, TRD Sport, Limited, Nightshade Special Edition, TRD Pro and Platinum. Each is 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 on the SR5, TRD Sport, Limited and Nightshade models. Four-wheel drive is available on those trims and standard on the Sequoia TRD Pro and Platinum. All Sequoias come with three rows of seating.

SR5
The base SR5 comes fairly well equipped. Standard features include:

18-inch wheels
LED headlights and foglights
Sunroof
Three-zone automatic climate control
Power-adjustable driver's seat
Keyless entry with push-button start
7-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

The Sequoia also includes several standard safety features and driver aids.

Toyota Safety Sense P

Pre-collision system (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Dynamic radar cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Toyota and the car in front)
Lane departure warning (alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane)
Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)

Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while reversing)
Front and rear parking sensors

If you're looking at a Sequoia SR5, we suggest opting for the Premium package. It adds:

Leather upholstery
Heated front seats
Power-folding third row
Upgraded audio system with navigation

TRD Sport
The Toyota Sequoia TRD Sport doesn't add any features. Instead it focuses on appearance and improved performance with:

20-inch TRD Sport wheels
Black exterior trim, roof rack and badges
Sport-tuned Bilstein dampers
Stiffer anti-roll bars
Second-row captain's chairs
Optional Premium package

TRD Pro
The TRD Pro builds off the TRD Sport with even more off-road goodies and features. Those include:

Rigid Industries LED foglights
Skid plates
Fox shocks
18-inch BBS wheels
Toyota logo grille
Black aluminum running boards
Power liftgate
JBL audio system

Limited
The midgrade Limited model ditches the off-road parts found on the TRD twins in favor of more creature comforts including:

20-inch wheels
Chrome exterior trim
Second-row bench seat (captain's chairs are available)
Heated front seats
Navigation

Nightshade Special Edition
The new Nightshade Edition mostly focuses on the Sequoia's looks. Consider it a sort of factory blackout package. Changes include:

Black 20-inch wheels
Dark chrome and black exterior trim
Second-row captain's chairs

Platinum
The top-of-the-line Platinum trim includes everything that's available on the SR5 and Limited models plus:

Adaptive suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers
Heated and ventilated front seats
Automatic high beams
Power-folding, heated exterior mirrors
Rear-seat entertainment system with a Blu-ray player
JBL audio system

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

3.5/5Above 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

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

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

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 2021 Toyota Sequoia.

5 (57%)

4 (21%)

3 (11%)

2 (3%)

1 (8%)

4.2

37 reviews

Write a vehicle review See all 37 reviews

Most helpful consumer reviews

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 2021 Toyota Sequoia, so we've included reviews for other years of the Sequoia since its last redesign.

See all 37 reviews of the Toyota Sequoia

Write a vehicle review

2021 Sequoia Highlights

Trim:

SR5

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$50,400
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	15 MPG
Cost to Drive	$254/month
Seating	8 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	18.9 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

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 Rating
OverallNot Rated
DriverNot Rated
PassengerNot Rated
Side Crash Rating
OverallNot Rated
Side Barrier Rating
OverallNot Rated
DriverNot Rated
PassengerNot Rated
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front SeatNot Rated
Back SeatNot Rated
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover18.5%

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2021 Toyota Sequoia Review

2021 Toyota Sequoia Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2021 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 $3.01 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which Sequoia does Edmunds recommend?

2021 Toyota Sequoia models

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

Cost

Frequency

Severity

Most helpful consumer reviews

Count on It

Outdated?

Built to last, over built and bullet proof

Very Impressive

2021 Sequoia Highlights

Safety

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Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2021 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 $3.01 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.}