A true representation of the brand’s history of reliability, Sequoia may outlive us all.
Inside Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky’s $1.8 billion reorganization
Inside Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky’s $1.8 billion reorganization
- Automotive research website iSeeCars.com conducted a longevity study and named the Sequoia the longest-lasting SUV.
- After spending some time with the 2026 Toyota Sequoia, it’s easy to see why some drivers are ready to make a long-term ownership commitment.
The Toyota Sequoia’s redesign for the 2023 model year gives the full-size three-row SUV a new standard powertrain that addresses one of the nameplate’s biggest concerns: fuel economy. With a new powertrain and an upgraded modern design, Sequoia’s third-generation model looks and drives like a family SUV built to outperform all its major competitors.
USA TODAY Cars tested whether the Sequoia’s pricing was justified. The starting price is high, but true competitors are hard to find when it comes to long-term value.
What makes the 2026 Toyota Sequoia stand out?
Sequoia stands out in this segment as a sophisticated mainstream model with user-friendly technology and an unparalleled value proposition considering its history. This is a nameplate known for its longevity, which is exactly what some drivers want in a family SUV.
According to a study by car research website iSeeCars.com, Toyota’s Sequoia is “the longest-lasting car with a 39% chance of reaching 250,000 miles.” The study analyzed data from nearly 400 million cars and estimated the probability that each car would reach a certain mileage milestone.
According to the Federal Highway Administration, Americans drive an average of 13,476 miles a year. Based on Sequoia’s at least 200,000 miles of driving performance and average annual range, Sequoia buyers can own their full-size SUV for more than 14 years. Once the Sequoia reaches 250,000 miles, drivers will be able to own the SUV for more than 18 years. In addition to its exciting powertrain and improved fuel economy, the Sequoia’s main appeal is its potential to remain a reliable family SUV for a long time.
How do you drive?
Performance, usability and efficiency
The 2026 Toyota Sequoia uses a 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine and electric motor, replacing the previous generation’s powerful V8. Incorporating an electric motor into this powertrain setup increases efficiency without sacrificing power in a full-size SUV. It produces an impressive 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque.
Toyota’s full-size SUV has excellent handling despite its large size, which can make parking difficult for first-time full-size SUV buyers. It is equipped with a camera and standard blind-spot monitor, making maneuvering the giant beast much easier.
In terms of efficiency, it’s far from the top of the segment, but it’s a huge improvement over the previous generation. The 2026 Sequoia achieves 22 miles per gallon combined, an increase of 8 miles from the second-generation model’s 14 combined miles per gallon. The 22.5-gallon tank size gives the full-size SUV a range of 495 miles, which is solid for the segment.
Will it fit your lifestyle?
Load capacity, space, practicality
The 2026 Sequoia is 208 inches long and 79 inches wide (without mirrors). Height is 77 inches. From an exterior design perspective, the first thing that stands out about the latest Sequoia is its massive size. It has 22.3 cubic feet of cargo space.
Toyota’s large SUV seats seven people, and some trims can add a second row of bench seats to make it an eight-seater. Rear seat legroom is plentiful (39.2 inches), but the third row has significantly less legroom than the first two rows, making it an ideal row for smaller passengers.
Is it worth it?
price, value, competition
Pricing for the 2026 Toyota Sequoia starts at $64,025 for the base model SR5. Six trims are available, including the Capstone final trim that USA TODAY Cars tested.
2026 Toyota Sequoia Trim
- Sequoia SR5: $64,025
- Sequoia Limited: $69,795
- Sequoia Platinum: $80,035
- Sequoia TRD Pro: $80,765
- Sequoia 1794 Edition: $80,850
- Sequoia Capstone: $84,435
The base model SR5 comes standard with power outside mirror heaters, a smart key system, and heated front seats. Also included is a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and panoramic view monitor with camera.
Toyota’s large SUVs offer a solid value proposition depending on the trim you choose. The base model is well-equipped to justify its price for drivers looking to own it long-term. Upper trims are more expensive, but offer more technology and creature comforts, potentially improving the ownership experience.
There are plenty of competitive full-size SUVs on the market, including the Chevrolet Suburban, Ford Expedition, and Nissan Armada. According to U.S. News & World Report, the Jeep Wagoneer is the best large SUV of 2025 and 2026. The Wagoneer makes more horsepower than the base Sequoia and probably has a more refined cabin and stronger value proposition than Toyota’s full-size SUV.
Who should buy the 2026 Toyota Sequoia?
The 2026 Sequoia is designed for buyers who regularly travel in large groups. If you’re looking for good fuel economy and the most cargo space in the segment, this might be a pass.
If you want to buy an SUV that will stand the test of time, the Sequoia is one of the best candidates in its segment. It has a robust powertrain and is designed for long-term ownership. As one of the longest-lasting modern vehicles on the market, it offers great value for money in the eyes of drivers willing to keep their car for 14 years or more.
