Toyota’s Sequoia carries over much of the Tundra’s bold stance and squared-off proportions, offering a striking profile that leans into rugged utility. Offered exclusively in a three-row layout, it manages to provide ample seating but sacrifices some rear passenger comfort due to its rear suspension setup. Third-row space feels tighter than expected, especially considering the vehicle’s full-size classification.
Storage capacity trails segment leaders, which may matter to families with big cargo needs. Power comes from a hybrid twin-turbo V-6 churning out 437 horsepower, blending strong acceleration with fuel efficiency that’s respectable for a vehicle this large. From behind the wheel, the Sequoia communicates heft and solidity, translating every maneuver into a reminder of its truck-based pedigree.
Joining the lineup for 2025, the 1794 Edition embraces upscale Americana. Positioned between the Platinum and Capstone models, it adds refined touches like saddle-colored leather, walnut wood accents, oversized emblems, and a full-length glass roof. Standard features include second-row captain’s chairs and a towing kit, with massaging seats now part of top-tier variants. Solar Octane exits the palette, trimming the exterior color options.
DESIGN
Built in Texas alongside its Tundra counterpart, the Sequoia 1794 Edition taps into heritage with a name linked to an 18th-century ranch once owned by Spanish settler Juan Ignacio de Casanova. Decades later, Toyota transformed that same land near San Antonio into a modern manufacturing hub. That lineage ties the Sequoia’s rugged utility to a deeply American backstory rooted in land, labor, and legacy.
Wearing Lunar Rock paint, this Sequoia projects quiet confidence with a dose of trail-readiness. Opting for the TRD Off-Road package adds 20-inch all-terrain tires, Bilstein shocks tuned for uneven ground, and TRD visual cues throughout. Inside, red contrast stitching, a TRD gear selector, and red ignition button contribute to a sportier tone. These elements aren’t mere decoration—they speak to Toyota’s intent to blend refinement with real-world utility.
For those who venture past the pavement, optional TRD skid plates add a layer of protection while reinforcing the SUV’s rugged stance. Priced at $385, they guard critical underbody hardware and elevate the truck’s presence with added visual toughness. Paired with the off-road package, they round out a setup built to shrug off loose gravel and rougher trails with ease.
A 10-inch color head-up display, available for $600, brings key metrics like speed and navigation into the driver’s line of sight. Designed to reduce eye movement and increase confidence behind the wheel, this feature proves valuable during longer trips or when navigating unfamiliar territory. It’s a practical tech upgrade that blends safety and convenience in a seamless package.
Captain’s chairs in the second row add comfort and separation for passengers, lending a premium feel to longer hauls. Cabin layout is smartly executed, though interior volume remains tighter than class benchmarks. Moving the third row back helps adult passengers but cuts into rear storage, leaving owners to weigh legroom against luggage needs on every trip.
PERFORMANCE
Built on the same architecture as the Tundra, the Sequoia sticks to a single, purpose-built powertrain across all trims. At its core is Toyota’s i-Force Max hybrid system, which combines a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with a 48-horsepower electric motor sandwiched between the engine and a 10-speed automatic. Power is sent to all four corners by default, creating a blend of torque-rich muscle and seamless hybrid refinement.
Total system output climbs to 437 horsepower and a commanding 583 lb-ft of torque, giving this full-size SUV a surprisingly quick stride off the line. The engine growls with a low, confident note that calls back to the golden era of V8s. Despite its body-on-frame DNA, Sequoia glides over rough pavement with ease. Steering feels precise, outward visibility is generous, and overall composure inspires trust. Efficiency checks in at 19 city, 22 highway, with max towing at 9,520 pounds.
VERDICT
Toyota’s 2025 Sequoia 1794 Edition featured in this review starts at $80,135. With all selected options and packages mentioned throughout, the total climbs to $85,630.
Competition
Chevrolet’s 2025 Tahoe pairs a roomy, well-organized cabin with composed driving dynamics rooted in its truck-based architecture. Engine variety ensures quick acceleration across trims, while ride comfort and control remain consistent on city streets or job sites. With its large footprint and smart interior layout, Tahoe remains a dependable solution for households needing a mix of everyday drivability and substantial utility.
GMC’s latest Yukon enters the new model year with sharper aesthetics and subtle performance tweaks that underscore its versatility. Riding on a robust frame, it delivers confident towing abilities and a composed ride quality. High-grade materials and enhanced soundproofing enrich the cabin experience, making it an appealing choice for buyers who want toughness paired with luxury cues and real-world capability.
Chevrolet’s Suburban holds its place in the segment with expansive cargo volume and strong hauling credentials. Built to accommodate growing families and long road trips, it handles extended travel and trailer duty without fuss. Configurable seating and generous interior space contribute to its lasting appeal, reinforcing its legacy as a trusted name in the full-size SUV landscape.
Jeep’s flagship SUV shifts focus toward comfort and technology, trading trail-first priorities for family-friendly refinement. Plush materials, spacious seating, and advanced features shape its appeal, with off-road capability still available for those occasional escapes beyond the pavement.
Toyota’s Sequoia sets itself apart with a hybrid drivetrain that blends torque-rich output with improved efficiency. While third-row legroom trails some rivals, the combination of responsive power delivery, head-turning design, and high tow ratings makes it a strong contender among full-size SUVs with modern sensibilities.
