2026 Toyota Sequoia Expert Review
Reviewed by Alex Leanse
Toyota builds several three-row vehicles, and the 2026 Sequoia is the biggest of them all. Unlike the crossovers and van in Toyota’s lineup, the Sequoia is a true SUV, built on a ladder frame chassis similar to the Tundra truck. Powered by a hybrid V-6 powertrain and offering up to eight seats, the Sequoia's trims range from basic to off-road to near-luxury.
What’s New
For 2026, the Sequoia TRD Pro is available in Wave Maker paint, an eye-catching bright blue color. The Limited trim upgrades from leatherette seat upholstery to real leather, and the range-topping Capstone model now offers textured leather upholstery in Shale gray.
What We Think
As the only hybrid full-size three-row SUV, the Sequoia provides electric-assisted speed and fuel economy that’s better than some of its V-8 competitors. However, that I-Force Max system can be slow to respond and occasionally lurchy. Handling isn’t a strong suit either; the SUV is saddled with excessive body roll and noticeably jiggly sensation over bumps.
On the practical side, the Sequoia has thoughtful features like a height-adjustable cargo floor and built-in steps for easy third-row access. Toyota’s standard driver-assist features and big-screen infotainment system work well. Still, interior space lags rivals, despite the Sequoia’s full-size footprint.
Value is another sticking point. In our experience, the Sequoia doesn’t deliver refinement or engineering to match its high price, especially in higher-end models. That makes it seem like drivers seeking a three-row Toyota would be better off with the Grand Highlander or Sienna—or a different full-size three-row SUV.
We’re curious about the new 1794 trim with luxury upgrades, but for now, more affordable and efficient Toyota hybrids like the Grand Highlander or Sienna—and other full-size SUV competitors—are stronger picks.
Top-Ranked Competitors:
MotorTrend Tested
Every 2026 Sequoia is equipped with a hybrid powertrain, badged I-Force Max by Toyota. It combines a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V-6 with an electric motor integrated into the 10-speed automatic transmission. Total output is 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque, which is sent to standard RWD or available 4WD.
In MotorTrend testing, 0–60 mph acceleration ranged from 5.6 seconds to 6.2 seconds in Sequoia models equipped with 4WD.
MPGs and Range
Fuel economy for the 2026 Sequoia measures at about 21/24 mpg city/highway with RWD, and 19/22 with 4WD. Among the Toyota’s competitive set, that efficiency is pretty good. Driving range for RWD models is as long as 495 miles, and for 4WD models it’s 450 miles.
Safety Features
Like every new Toyota, the Sequoia comes equipped with a variety of driver-assist and active safety features. The Toyota Safety Sense suite includes:
- Front and rear automatic emergency braking
- Intersection collision mitigation
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane centering
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic high beams
Cargo Space and Interior Room
The Sequoia can seat seven or eight passengers, depending on whether the second row is equipped with individual captain’s chairs or a bench seat. Regardless, the Sequoia’s interior measurements are notably smaller than those of its rivals.
Technology
Infotainment
The base SR5 trim is equipped with an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, but above that all Sequoia models have a 14.0-inch touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included on both screens. Every Sequoia gets a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display. All grades have USB charge ports, and a wireless charging pad is added on the Platinum and above. An auto-dimming rearview mirror, 360-degree camera, and parking sensors are also standard.
Sound System
An eight-speaker audio system is standard, and a 14-speaker JBL premium system is added on higher-end models.
Available Upgrades
Tech upgrades on the Sequoia include a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, wireless trailer camera, power-folding third-row seats, auto-leveling headlights, and power-extending towing mirrors.
Value
Standard Features
In addition to the I-Force Max hybrid powertrain, the base Sequoia SR5 has 18-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights, and a manual tailgate. Inside, it comes with an eight-passenger seating arrangement, cloth seat upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, heated front seats, and keyless entry with pushbutton start. The 2026 Sequoia SR5 starts at approximately $66,000.
Recommended Trim
Our choice in the Sequoia lineup is the Limited trim, as it adds useful features and amenities for a reasonable price. Among those upgrades are 20-inch wheels, leather upholstery, driver’s seat memory settings, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, power liftgate, and power-folding third-row seats. Pricing for the 2026 Sequoia Limited begins at about $72,000.
Is the Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro Good Off-Road?
When the whole family wants to hit the trail, TRD Pro is the way to go for the Sequoia. This off-road model comes equipped with standard 4WD, along with Fox internal bypass shocks, forged wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, underbody skidplates, and a locking rear differential. It’s decently capable on rough stuff, but back on pavement the Sequoia TRD Pro is noisy and has a firm ride. Are those worthwhile tradeoffs for trail chops and good looks at the Sequoia TRD Pro’s near-$83,000 starting price?
