Toyota took the veils off the 2023 Sequoia model today, a very important debut for the Japanese car maker given the current market conditions. At the moment, the Sequoia is the brand’s range-topping SUV in the US (ever since the Land Cruiser was retired), so overhauling it both visually and mechanically was extremely important, in order to keep it relevant.
The new Sequoia is replacing the older three-row SUV that has been on sale in virtually the same shape since 2008. The exterior design of the new Sequoia features an upright stance that gives it a powerful appearance. The front end is similar to the one used on the most recent Tundra. Although the front end is dominated by a big grille, the designers tried to differentiate the various trim levels by using different mesh patterns.
The TRD Pro package, for example, has large black hexagons, whilst the Capstone has smaller apertures with a chrome finish. The headlights feature a horizontal Y-shape for the DRL. The fenders have a noticeable ridge above the wheel opening, giving them a robust appearance. The D-pillar’s base angles forward, and the back glass wraps around to the side of the vehicle. All Sequoias have three rows of seats on the inside. The second row has either a bench or captain’s seats, depending on the trim level. The third row also features a shelf system on the back and can slide fore and aft up to 6.0 inches for easier cargo stacking.
The 2023 Sequoia is built on the same modular, body-on-frame chassis that underpins the Toyota Tundra, Land Cruiser, and Lexus LX 600. For all trim levels, buyers can choose between a two-wheel-drive system and a part-time four-wheel-drive system. Only 4WD is available with the TRD Pro package.
The new SUV is riding on an independent front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. Adaptive dampers can be added as an optional extra. The new Sequoia has a towing capacity of 9,000 pounds, which is roughly 22% higher than the previous model. Power-folding, extending, and retractable towing mirrors are available as options for enhanced visibility.
The 3.5-liter twin-turbo hybrid V6 that Toyota calls the i-Force Max is standard on all 2023 Sequoia models. Like the Tundra, the engine makes 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. Only a 10-speed automatic transmission is available. Toyota didn’t offer any details on the fuel economy yet but claims that their are “a substantial improvement over the previous generation.”
At launch, the 2023 Sequoia will be available in five trim levels. Starting with the SR5, going up to the Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro and top of the range Capstone. All models will get the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite of tech as standard as well as heated seats, a moonroof, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and panoramic-view camera system. Pricing hasn’t been announced yet but the car is slated to go on sale this summer.
