Sunday Drive: 2024 Toyota Sequoia the perfect blend of everything in an SUV
After our week out and about in the new 2024 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro Platinum Hybrid we loved that it combined modern technology, rugged off-road capability and eco-conscious design into a single package. Toyota’s commitment to refining its full-size SUV and truck lineup was evident in the Sequoia, which incorporated hybrid powertrain technology and a smaller engine without sacrificing the performance we would have expected.
Exterior design and styling
On our first day with the Sequoia, it projected an imposing presence with its bold, boxy design, which in our opinion is both rugged and sophisticated. The front fascia featured Toyota’s signature large, blacked-out grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights that provided a modern touch to the bodywork.
The TRD Pro variant enhanced the SUV’s off-road credentials with unique design elements like the aggressive skid plate, blacked-out trim and 18-inch BBS forged alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires.
This SUV’s high ground clearance, roof rails and wide stance let everyone know its off-road intentions. The Platinum trim added a level of luxury and refinement to the rugged appearance with additional chrome accents, soundproofing for a quieter cabin and extra details that elevated the overall appearance of the Sequoia. Whether we were driving on the highway or traversing rocky trails, the Sequoia ensured that we stood out.
Interior comfort and space
Inside, the Sequoia impressed us with its spacious and upscale interior. The cabin was thoughtfully designed to blend both functionality and comfort into one. Premium leather seats were standard in the Platinum trim, and both the first- and second-row seats were heated and ventilated, providing comfort in a variety of climates — although, we only used the ventilation during our week in August with the SUV.
The Sequoia’s third-row seating provided adequate space for adults, which is a rarity in full-size SUVs, and would automatically go up and down via buttons inside the rear liftgate. Passengers in the back row would benefit from reclining seats and their own climate control, making long road trips more enjoyable.
Additionally, the Sequoia offered an impressive cargo space with the third-row seats folded flat, making it ideal for families who need both passenger capacity and the ability to carry gear.
Technologically speaking
The Sequoia came equipped with a huge, 14-inch touch screen infotainment system that included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and navigation. This large screen was very intuitive and responsive, putting critical controls within easy reach for us to manipulate.
The JBL premium audio system delivered excellent sound quality and made it easy to enjoy our music or podcasts during our week out in the Sequoia. Wireless charging, multiple USB ports and ample storage spaces rounded out the features we came to love.
Performance and hybrid powertrain
Under the hood, the Sequoia was powered by Toyota’s i-FORCE MAX hybrid system, which pairs a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine with an electric motor to produce a combined 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. This was a significant step up from the previous generation’s naturally aspirated V-8 engine, offering both better fuel efficiency and increased power.
The hybrid system worked seamlessly, providing smooth acceleration with plenty of low-end torque, this made the Sequoia feel responsive both on and off the road. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifted effortlessly, and the hybrid powertrain was particularly advantageous in city driving, where the electric motor provided instant torque.
This setup also improved the Sequoia’s towing capability, allowing it to tow up to 9,520 pounds, making it one of the strongest contenders in the full-size SUV segment.
One of our favorite highlights of the TRD Pro edition of the Sequoia was its off-road prowess. This version of the Sequoia came with Fox shocks, skid plates and an electronically controlled locking rear differential, all of which are designed to tackle tough terrain.
The Multi-Terrain Select system allowed us to adjust the vehicle’s traction control settings based on the surface we were driving on, be it mud, sand or rocks. Despite its size, the Sequoia felt agile and capable when we took it off-road, with the suspension soaking up bumps and ruts to deliver a smooth trekking experience.
On the road, the Sequoia remained composed, offering a smooth and quiet ride thanks to its adaptive suspension. The hybrid system contributes to fuel savings, as we managed a nice 20.1 mpg over the week.
Safety and driver-assistance features
Toyota had equipped the 2024 Sequoia with a full suite of safety and driver-assistance features, including the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 system. This included adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and blind-spot monitoring. The system was reliable and unobtrusive, and made it easy for us to drive confidently in a variety of conditions.
The 360-degree camera system was particularly helpful in a vehicle of this size, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. Rear cross-traffic alert, parking sensors and a heads-up display are additional features that improved visibility and awareness.
At the end of the week
The 2024 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro Platinum Hybrid represented a significant leap forward for Toyota’s full-size SUV lineup. Its blend of hybrid technology, off-road capability and luxury features make it a versatile and compelling choice for those in the market for a large, capable vehicle. The hybrid powertrain not only boosts fuel efficiency but also enhances the Sequoia’s performance.
Whether one is looking for a family SUV with ample space, a vehicle with strong towing capabilities or an off-road-ready adventure machine, the Sequoia TRD Pro Platinum Hybrid has something to offer. With Toyota’s reputation for reliability and the added benefits of the hybrid system, this model is well worth considering for anyone who wants a versatile, capable and eco-conscious SUV.
Base price: $76,765
Destination charge: $1,850
Price as driven: $82,338
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- The 2024 Toyota Sequoia proved to be a very capable SUV. Even with a downsize in the motor, it’s now stronger and better than ever.
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- Inside the 2024 Toyota Sequoia.
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- Inside the 2024 Toyota Sequoia.
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- The 2024 Toyota Sequioa is perfect for the on-the-go family with an active lifestyle, coming with plenty of room for folks and gear.
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- The 2024 Toyota Sequoia.
