2021 Toyota Sequoia Review

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.

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.

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.