Yeah, like when they try and claim using rear drum brakes on the Tacoma are actually an advantage over discs. Answering questions honestly is great, trying to make excuses for poor decisions and spin it in a way that anyone that knows better will see right through it is insulting.
@@dieseldrax disc brakes are flashier for sure, but they're not lying about advantages drums provide for heavy off-roading use such as what the Tacoma was designed for. If you think it's for cost cutting, it's really not - most all other Toyota models with rear discs have a drum-in-disc setup, doubling the hardware usage there. Could they could have used such setups to appease the masses? Sure, people would STFU about that. But that would be like the masses telling Peterbilt they should be using discs in their semis to appease the masses and nothing more.
@@channelnamehere4065 you fell for their nonsense, too, I guess. Drums have no benefits over discs, off road or otherwise. They are more complex, they provide less braking ability, less control, and if you get them wet then they are even worse. I've owned vehicles with drums all around, both off road vehicles as well as large on road vehicles. Drums are absolute garbage. The only reason Toyota gets away with using drums out back with the Taco is because rear brakes don't do the heavy lifting compared to the fronts. Rear discs with drum parking brakes are generally a non-issue as the shoes for the parking brake should have no problem lasting for the life of the vehicle or close to it. Would I prefer calipers with parking brake functionality? Sure. But drums for parking brakes are fine as well, they get the job done. Drums for service brakes are nothing but a hassle, don't let Toyota try and convince you otherwise.
@@dieseldrax they must know something if they're sticking to their guns and not retrofitting with $40 rotors in one of the refresh cycles... I'm not convinced of anything, but it's Toyota - they usually have a reason to engineer something the way they do, given their parts bin...maybe it's by design for psychological reasons? To make owners think that since they never have to touch the rear brakes, that it's attributed to reliability?
@@channelnamehere4065 when you save $40 per vehicle over 250k vehicles it’s $1m… . It’s a fact that drums are terrible. Their only advantage is more braking force due to the shoes having more surface area but that’s meaningless since both systems can generate more than enough force to lock the wheels. . Drums have poor cooling which means traction control will over heat them quicker. . Drums capture debris and water, so driving through mud and puddles can cause significant losses in braking. . Rotors are self cleaning. Rotors have superior cooling. Rotors do not retain debris on the braking surfaces. . Toyota is a cheap brand. Had two and they are garbage. Interior quality is poor, adhesives come apart, actuators and solenoids fail often. . And their engineer Sweers lies through his teeth. He said that tundra owners don’t want a locker so it was unavailable, but now they want it. He said the million mile tundra had a couple water pumps and that was it, but forgot to mention the 10 so odd timing belt changes at the least. He also said they like the bendy frame was desired for better articulation. Wonder what that weak rear section goes through when you max it’s 900 lbs payload capacity. . News flash, Toyota is a company made of people. They don’t have the best engineers in the world, nor do they have sole access to tech or materials to make them special wakandan machines. They get a majority of their parts from suppliers that provide parts for dozens of Manufacturers. So when everyone else does the more expensive route it’s for a reason. This proved by Toyota themselves going that route on most of not all of those sad excuses.
I was falling in love with this until you said the 3rd row is permanent.... WTF I want to sleep in the back, and use it for camping... That's super disappointing.
@@m1t2a1 Yes, I love paying for something just to cut it out. maybe I could just pay extra and have them cut it out for me after I paid to include it in the car. 🙂
I'm hoping they don't... they are going to add a bunch of shit that's going to be easy to break. Inevitably they're going to add more electronics and a more complicated engine. Shit that can't be easily fixed when I'm days away from society. It was one of the last good reliable vehicles.
I dunno, I think they made a mistake with the 3rd row. I really think they should have designed it to come out with ease. I mean sure, if you really want to take it out then you can. But to remove the second-row adjustment or it... I think they may have been trying too hard to achieve other things. The Sequoia has been a great off-roader, I would have liked to have seen a better approach angle at the front, or at least a fast release section front lower fender, and a slightly better departure angle to the rear also.
I'm in two minds in that one, having removed a few different third rows they are quite the bear to drag out, so I don't know how often I'd attempt that in reality, however I think the Hybrid battery location is probably why they didn't do it here, maybe the floor isn't even flat underneath.
I think this might be my next car. I’m driving a 5th gen 4runner currently. The cars I’ve been looking at are the new defender, new Range Rover sport, and rivian r1t. This costs around the same as the defender, it looks more rugged than all of the other ones, it’s just as capable off road, and it’s huge. Nice work Toyota. Give me a TRD pro with the sound insulated windows and it’s perfect. I like the way the LX looks but it’s super cramped inside. Feels like the defender.
I think Sr5 off road package seems the way to go here. For $80k, I'm thinking the used domestic SUV market would offer better bargain and more features for the money.
Toyota will be the most reliable and you'll get the most for your money. Rivian, on the the other hand, I dont know how reliable that is, whether bad or good.
agreed, they chose the nickel metal hydride batteries which are twice as heavy and less energy dense than the lithium option. if anything, they should have used lithium-based batteries and stored the entire unit outside in the spare tire well. then the interior would be flat. the reason toyota did this is because the tundra also stupidly uses NiMH batteries. Toyota's well-documented "Stagnation Tactics" prevent them from innovating. They even got called out at a shareholder's meeting by two major worldwide pension and investment firms. Toyota basically said that "If customers wanted these different options, they would buy cars with them". Which is complete BS.
Agree! My 2019 Explorer has only had people in the 3rd row (while on vacation) 3 times in 3 years... I do need the storage space though, so removable 3rd row would be fantastic; however a 2 row Explorer, I would have gone for that in a heartbeat for even more cargo space
I was considering this heavily until the 3rd row. Bought a 5th gen 4 runner trd off road because i didn’t want a 3rd row. They should really offer something like that for this.
@@thegreatlakestrucker or GX and they fold down all the way flush. Can’t fit dogs in the back of this unless they’re crawling all over the 3rd row seat. Way to go Toyota.
Ya know Ryan, I've called Toyota, "the Great Compromiser", because their product development teams are very artful at mixing and matching equipment and features with a target price in mind. But it looks like the 2023 Sequoia may have been a victim of inflation as the desirable features can send prices above $80k. Of course any shortcomings of the new Sequoia can be excused since there wasn't suppose to be a new Sequoia, it was scheduled for cancellation! So, maybe a solid rear axle can be forgiven? Better than no Sequoia at all. Thank you, Ryan!
@@canobeansyummers1667 LOL. There is a reason Toyota has sold over 50 million Corollas and over 10 million Land Cruisers. As far as reliability, durability and value, Toyota is unrivalled in the automotive industry.
The very fact that I never cared for a Sequoia before but was able to convince the wife to trade in the minivan is indication (anecdotal) it's going to sell well.
Toyota makes a BIG mistake by NOT offering an extended length version like Ford and GM do. With 3rd row seat up, there is essentially no room for cargo.
The 3rd row is something I'll have to see to believe. I just don't see how it can seat anyone other than small kids especially since it's sitting right on top of the electric motor. I have also read that even in the 2nd row, the head room isn't that great and worse with the pano roof. Biggest complaint I have is the shelf system they have. I understand the space is going to be limited because of the constraints placed by having the electric motor back there, but the 3rd row doesn't fold flat and to try to mitigate this, they came up with the shelf system which just seems far too cumbersome with too many moving parts. I was waiting for this review, btw. Big fan of yours.
The Center Row is atrocious. They opted for the flat floor in the cabin so you lose out on 3 inches of headroom. If they kept it traditional and allowed the seats to be sunken into the floor, especially for the captains chairs, it would've been great. Unfortunately, Toyota compromised by making the Sequoia a Minivan.
IME Toyota have not quite caught up to the idea of accommodating tall people. A couple of years back I was looking at a RAV4, I'm 6' 4" and a reasonably athletic build, but between the oversized center console and the hard door trim on a rental unit I tried before going to buy one, it was a deal breaker for me, uncomfortable on the open road over distance, it just didn't seem to be designed with taller than average people in mind. On a vehicle the size of a Sequoia there shouldn't be headroom issues at all.
I love the look of the Toyota Sequoia. It’s my favorite large full size SUV on the outside. I am a little frustrated by the second and third row on the inside. I LOVE red interior.
I just bought a 2023 Sequoia Capstone. It did not come with MTS or Crawl Control. Can Toyota install these features if I want them - or is it too late?
the less than stellar trunk space and low head height in the 2nd row is a huge oversight. So many better ways to do it. Are that many people asking for a third row ?? I wouldve much rather seen more trunk space. Do sequoia buyers care for a panoramic moonroof or a reg moonroof even?
Honestly he’s the only reviewer who has noticed and pointed out that the Falken wildpeaks that come stock on the new trd pro tundras and trd pro sequoias are different than the Falken wildpeak at3w that you buy by itself. I’ve run Falken wildpeaks on my 4runner for years now and they are way more aggressive than what’s on these stock trd pros. I guess Falken changed the tread depth for Toyota for maybe better mpg but I’m not sure. I don’t see it making a huge difference but the tread and even the sidewall design are not nearly as aggressive as normal Falken wildpeaks.
Maybe they’re T rated rather than C or E rated?Not familiar with Wildpeaks but my Open Country AT3’s are T rated on my 4Runner. They look less aggressive to me vs their E rated version.
the tread design on the OE/OEM wildpeaks are less aggressive, in order to meet noise/comfort criteria for Toyota. They also tend to weigh less compared to the off-the-shelf AT3ws, which aid in the comfort, braking/accel, and MPG criteria. This applies to majority of the OE/OEM tires on new vehicles vs. aftermarket
Gotta say not being able to remove the rear seat is kind of a dealbreaker for me and the fact that it's part of the battery compartment just kinda makes me dislike the electrification of this SUV even more. I don't want the added complexity or weight of the electric stuff, especially for something I'm going to take off-road. I could be ok with it because I'm sure it's seamless and improves fuel economy, plus it's Toyota so I'm sure it's reliable and all that. But having that system means I can't remove the backseat? C'mon, man! Also, I lament the lack of fulltime 4WD as well. For big SUVs like this, I like the added confidence of having more traction for mixed driving conditions. I love the way this thing looks inside and out, but damn there are some things I wish they had done different.
3rd seat not being able to remove is a disappointment, but still better interior than Tahoe, better engine(economically), better infotainment made me stay with the Sequoia.
@@Northern_Ty But what if the electricals are hardwired? Best scenario, there would be some kind of snap connection for the wires. But it sounds like for legal reasons and regulations, Toyota wants to discourage people from removing the 3rd row.
@@ryant1090 not sure of the process, but saw another video that said it could be done per the engineers - just not recommended based on the location of the batteries underneath. I think as you stated, its more safety (legal) than anything with the reasoning
Great review, Ryan! As has been shared, one of the better ones. FWIW, I would see including full time 4WD as a negative. More to go wrong, and really don't need it. PT will do much better when 4WD is really needed and will give you better mileage when not needed. LOVE the fact you included Toyota tech's talking in the vid. Very helpful. Thank you! Good stuff.
I don't go off road but I want a safe SUV in the snow and the rain for my family. Do I need this 4wheel drive system on this 2023 Sequoia or TRD Sport 2wheel will be good enough? Would you please cover the drive modes for those who like the reliability and the look of the Sequoia but they don't go off road but want safe SUV for different conditions?
Ryan, I suspect truck buyers will be fine with the solid rear axle but luxury buyers won't be. With full size (electric) pickups now coming to market with IRS, it is a tough call determining whether Toyota did the right thing choosing the solid axle for Sequoia. The way for Toyota to deliver Land Cruiser capability to North American buyers is actually quite simple, they could just sell us the damn Land Cruiser!!
I guess it’s just cheaper for manufacturing by sharing the same suspension between tundra and sequoia. Since Toyota don’t sell sequoia a lot, they might think it’s no longer worth it to develop IRS specifically for sequoia.
Thank you very much for the candid and honest review of the 2023 Sequoia TRD Pro. Really appreciate you calling Toyota out on the two big losses vs the outgoing model: much decreased interior space and cargo volume, and the loss of full-time 4WD with the lockable Torsion centre diff. I know Toyota is still closely controlling the narrative, but can you please do a side by side comparison between a 2021/22 2nd Gen Sequoia TRD Pro and the 2023 Sequoia TRD Pro when you have the chance? I think that would be a great characterization of the differences and what is gained / lost with this model. Cheers, and please keep these reviews going, really appreciate the info.
I wonder if because of the Hybrid battery location the floor itself is not flat under the seats and that is the real issue as to why they are not removable, and there isn't an option with no 3rd row.
You mention that driving in 4H can "bind the transmission" when I had my 2010 Sequoia I set it to 4H during winter and I didn't notice and issues. Is that something specific to this model year? Would driving in 4H during the winter months damage the transmission on the new Sequoias?
The lack of an AWD mode for the road does seem a bit of an omission, ultimately it's no different from my Pickup truck in that sense, but when you are on slick wet roads, or with a bit of snow here and there, I have to say I like the AWD of my Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk in that you can just hit the gas in any conditions and the vehicle responds without drama, something I particularly like when my wife is driving in poor conditions.
Great review, Ryan, and very objective (in my view). I agree that the loss of AWD is a major bummer. I'd really rather have the transfer case from the LX or the new GX (assuming it will be AWD, too). Cheers.
@@JeepCherokeeful agreed, would prefer part time 4wd. once 4wd is engaged, boom, that's your center lock. once the rear locker is engaged, boom, can climb up and out of almost anything. i can't imagine one situation where AWD helped w/ anything besides burning gas faster on a bigass vehicle.
@styledliving It allows you to drive on mixed slippery surfaces without trashing your transfer case. It also means between tons of wheel slip or the traction control killing all your power. Plus the difference in fuel economy is practically nothing. The EPA rates it exactly the same in part time or full time 4WD systems. So the torsen set up is entirely mechanical. Unlike the electronic systems that overheat in a lot of American trucks
Fortunately for My family, the 3rd row issue isn't really an issue for us. We already have a 3 row SUV that has a 3rd row that folds flat (Telluride) so having both the telluride and a sequoia gives us tons of options. Dad gets the more capable and powerful beast while mom gets the more refined and luxurious cabin.
unfortunately, you'll have to keep dreaming or purchase an ARB air locker. Toyota isn't known for innovation, they use "stagnation tactics" so they don't have to upgrade stuff while raking in the profits from the fact people will buy whatever they sell them.
Thanks for the thorough review. One RUclipsr mentioned hesitation or chatter “Chadder” when the car switched from electric motor to gasoline engine? What are your thoughts? Was that hybrid to gasoline transition felt when you drove it or was it smooth?
Just a hunch but I have a suspicion with why no full-time 4WD w/ locking center diff was designed was due to the weight and economy. This is a heavy vehicle with the hybrid motor and I think full-time 4 wheel drive would be a big hit to economy ( also could be a cost cutting move). And complain all you want about economy not being important in a vehicle this big but it's pretty damn important to Toyota hence the axing of the v8 On the other side, having a selectable automatic 4wheel system would be adding a degree of complexity that Toyota may not be willing to add on to this and from what I can understand, transfer cases which accomodate 2wd, 4hi, 4lo and 4Auto are fairly complex and expensive and a nightmare to repair of they break (think overheating a clutch if 4A was accidentally left on when offroading). Full-time 4wd would have been ideal but looks like that may have made this vehicle too expensive (it's already at an eye-watering price as is)
Quite the assessment! I think hybrid powertrain is part of reason it doesn't have full-time 4WD like last gen. It's a soccer mom vehicle so you'd think full-time 4WD is the way to go, but it seems they have to compromise for longevity by not including one.
Useful and informative review as usual. Thanks! 3-rd row in reality turn some customers away from buying it. Not only it adds extra cost for not needed "feature", but it is also inconvenient. For example in my Jeep Grand Cherokee I can fold rear seats and it makes a flat flor. I can sleep in it. All I need is a sleeping bag. I don't have to setup tent when going fishing or hunting. This vehicle bigger and more expensive, but doesn't have that useful option.
Technical question: when you activate the rear locker at 27:57 , aren't you supposed to press the trac system button and disable it? I mean, to turn off the trac system also. Thank you,
Great review as always. I’ve come around a bit on the lack of center diff. If one wants a supersized and more efficient and modern 4Runner TRD Pro this is the perfect vehicle. One burning question I have is whether Toyota will offer the same TRD lift kit they offered to Tundra. It would look much nicer and capable with that kit and 35” tires on the Sequoia
Pass on the garbage "TRD" lift kit. Total Chaos Long Travel and King Shocks all day long. A proper long travel or even extended travel kit with upper control arms will have much better stance and utility any day. The TRD shocks are Fox, but not made for any real offroad duty. You should look at Accutune's offerings for custom valved King Shocks. Much better than IVD suspension since they do nothing but leak all day long because of the horrible seals they use.
Interesting that they didn't use the regular Falken Wildpeaks AT tire. Probably so it gets better gas mileage... but the regular Wildpeaks are such great tires that you hope these slightly downgraded ones are equally as good.
The regular Wildpeaks have a much, much longer wear life than the Toyota OEM tires. I think it's a combination of better economy and (mostly) cost savings.
Can someone please explain what advantage the always-on 4x4 in the Lexus LX600 gives? He mentions it several times but doesn't actually explain the advantage. Confusingly he says some people would like it when on normal driving conditions, I would have thought such a feature is only for off-road conditions.
Awesome review Ryan! I really think Toyota could’ve had a winner but for the third row and part time 4wd. I understand the third row due to the battery pack placement, but part time 4wd…wtf?! I thought that was left behind in the late 90s and I can’t see people requesting that. The decision to use part time 4wd feels like cost cutting or a push for weight reduction. They could’ve at least thrown in the land cruiser/LX full time system on the trd pro and capstone trims. Do you think the 4 runner will go this route ?
You've always had an awesome intro with a great song but the glass breaking sound when the logo drops sounds kinda weak. How about changing it to something more 'murica like an explosion or at least a larger impact?
Great review. Thumbs up. Have you learned the official city/highway mph estimates yet since you did this video, if so what are they? Also, does thisTRD Pro come with adjustable air suspension to gain an extra inch or two in height? (The Platinum does not, but someone told me they thought the higher trims did). Also, I don't understand what "part-time 4H or 4L means. Since there is no formal Auto which switches between 2 and 4 wheel drive, does part-time 4H or 4L mean it will not remain in 4H until changed out, but will in effect act like an auto option, switching b/t 2 and 4 wheel drive as needed, but never remaining in 4 wheel all the time? Thanks.
@@drivingsports Thanks. And thanks for such a fast response. I am impressed, and appreciative. And that's a great MPG rating for such an suv. I also love the twin turbo given that I live and frequent high altitudes and mountain driving. I actually like the rear layout with that adjustable shelf, b/c since I rarely would need the 3rd row for people, I could just leave the 3rd row down, place that shelf to level that rear space out, and have some hidden room beneath the shelf to store things that I always like to keep in my vehicle "in case needed", but from inside looking back the rear area looks clean and uncluttered when not loaded with things. I really like that. Was concerned about the 2nd and 3rd row headroom, but since both rows have reclining seats that solves that concern. My main concern now is the lack of an "Auto" feature and "full time" 4H or 4L, that could be a breaker for me. You actually make it sound like the part-time 4H and 4L are in effect the same thing as the "Auto" feature on other suv's, which leaves the problem being no full-time 4H and 4L. I am going to look at the Lexus LX600 as you mentioned to see if that makes up for my main concern here but without too many trade-offs. Again, thanks for a great review and fast reply. If you have any more input on the lack of an "Auto" feature and "full-time" versus "part-time" 4H and 4L I'd welcome those additional thoughts.
@@Nate-zy5ce Nothing really to add regarding full time vs on-demand 4WD. It’s one of those features that’s pretty cut and dry. Can someone that wants full time live with part time? Sure. But you’ll be complaining every time you’re in mixed surface conditions. 😂
I added MTS to my GX460 and ..it’s the loudest you’ve ever heard! What a beautiful truck, that payload cap is sick! It could haul around my mini excavator. Nice review, always a good review👌🏼
Sequoia will be offered in 2WD or the available part-time 4WD system on SR5, Limited, Platinum and Capstone grades. TRD Pro will be offered only in 4WD. The part-time 4WD system relies on a transfer case, controlled via a lever on the center console, to select between 2WD, 4WD high or 4WD low.
100% big miss not having @ least one trim with Full-Time 4WD >> that makes it a pass for me but it does look fantastic. Curious to see how many issues there are with this new motor. Also.. kinda odd the LX600 doesn't use this hybrid engine.. anyone know why?
personally I think the part-time four-wheel drive is a plus because that style of transfer case is stronger as long as you use it properly but that's my opinion the full time four wheel drive is great for warrant on experienced driver and bad weather
Man if they made the third row bigger, this would be PERFECT for me; otherwise a deal breaker. Any chance they’ll come out with a long wheel base one? 🙏
Damn if you need something bigger than this you might as well get a minivan. The other full size suvs like suburban and expedition might be bigger but not nearly as capable off road as this will be with the solid rear axle and will be more nimble with a shorter wheelbase. Toyota still kept in mind overlanding and off roading for this new design whereas the other full size suvs aren’t really designed for that. They might have cute little off road trims but the different modes and 4x4 on those other full size suvs are mainly for a dirt road or for different everyday weather conditions. I’d take the sequoia anyday if you are actually using it to overland and off road over any other full size suv besides a land cruiser but a land cruiser is kinda in between a full size and midsize. Same thing for this.
@@andyham6094 I mean let’s face it the third row is just crap. Trucks like the Tahoe/Expedition are just better in terms of passenger space but they suck in other aspects that the Sequoia is great at. And you’re right, a minivan will probably work for me but would’ve loved to have my cake and eat it too with the Sequoia. Missed opportunity for Toyota to really get it fully right imo.
The first thing I did when I bought my 100 series land cruiser was take out the third row. The second thing I did was take out the second row. Gotta be able to sleep back there. Also the hybrid battery being there is a bad excuse. I'd prefer a non hybrid twin turbo personally. If not a v8...
Give me a non-hybrid option without the battery pack, delete the 3rd row seats and flatten the cargo floor and I'll get this. As it's packaged right now it doesn't work for me. Guess i'll wait to see what the next gen 4runner is like.
I wonder how "difficult" it is to remove the third row. I have removed the third row from my Lexus GX460 which are also heavy and power operated. Would be good for somebody to try :)
Not very difficult. it'll require unbolting stuff and removing the wiring harness. and very likely because it was never meant to be removed, there won't be carpet over the battery pack. it's possible that you might have to remove some body panels, but toyota body panels a majority of the time snap in and out of place.
It should be in production later this year. Call another dealer. We've worked with the AutoNation Toyota stores down there (not a sponsor) and they should give you a straight answer.
Stuck between the 2023 4runner, a 2023 z71 tahoe, and the redesigned 4runner. I like the sequoia but, for that price, I'd prefer a z71 tahoe with a 6.2. I don't care for turbo motors. Hopefully on the redesigned 4runner they stick with the naturally aspirated motor, with an updated interior / exterior without getting to close to the price of the tahoe.
I really like your reviews, you're generally the first I go to. One thing though, at 3:10 the Toyota rep says it can tow 9,520lbs but your captions say 9,020. Is that intentional or was it a mistake?
If I want the TRD Pro but not red leather, is it possible? Pointing out that the red seats are red is nice and all 😀 but options would be nice to point out too.
where are they hearing from the customers? ive never been asked to do a survey on anything new ive purchased and havent ever spoke to anyone that has done a survey. so where are they coming from about there hearing from customers??
Ryan keeps talking about not being able to drive in 4wd on pavement. I have a 2006 4Runner and in the winter sometimes I leave it in 4wd for DAYS, and have never had an issue. Is there something different about the 2023 Sequoia's 4wd system that makes it so it can't do that?
@@drivingsports Fair point. Also, I forgot to thank you SO MUCH for pointing this out in your review. I was headed into a purchase of a new Sequoia without even realizing there's a difference between my 4Runner's 4wD with center diff and the new Sequoia's. Thanks to you, I'm now much more educated about the difference. That's a big deal, I'm surprised more reviewers aren't pointing it out. Great Review!
Not power folding. However you can order the Tahoe as a two-row. The issue isn’t that they’re not removable it’s that you can’t buy it as a two row and they’re not removable.
I really miss the stand alone turn signal indicator rather the brake and turn function. All previous generation Sequoia has that stand alone turn signal function. To not have the third row seat to fully fold flat is almost a deal breaker. It's quite weird to not have the third row seat folded flush with the rest of the rear floor. Also, we need a non- hybrid version available as a entry level vehicle.
We had the explanation in this video but it was already running long. As we’ve demonstrated in other videos, part time locks the center transfer case which means you can’t turn without binding the front and back wheels on pavement. It’s a loose surface 4WD solution only.
As Ryan said, the concern with part-time vs full-time is when you are driving on mixed surfaces, like winter in New England where some pavement is slippery and some has full traction. A full-time 4WD would be able to sort this out on the fly, but putting a part-time 4WD into 4WD mode would potentially grenade the system when on the grippy sections.
@@drivingsports Love your reviews. Agree on AWD. Once you had full-time 4WD you would never go back to part-time 4WD especially for everyday driving. THe only time when part-time has an advantaged is at very slow speeds for rock crawling.
Most people who will buy this have no idea what center or rear diff locks even are. They also won't be taking this offroad on anything more challenging than a slightly bumpy dirt road. It's not meant for those scenarios where you'd need what you're saying (too wide, too low ground clearance, and too poor approach/breakover/departure angles for trails that'd need these features). Not having a center diff lock, solid rear axle, or full time 4x4 is in no way going to limit people from buying this.
I love the fact the engineers are there to talk to their products. I wish they keep this up - especially on the technical stuff.
Yeah, like when they try and claim using rear drum brakes on the Tacoma are actually an advantage over discs. Answering questions honestly is great, trying to make excuses for poor decisions and spin it in a way that anyone that knows better will see right through it is insulting.
@@dieseldrax disc brakes are flashier for sure, but they're not lying about advantages drums provide for heavy off-roading use such as what the Tacoma was designed for. If you think it's for cost cutting, it's really not - most all other Toyota models with rear discs have a drum-in-disc setup, doubling the hardware usage there. Could they could have used such setups to appease the masses? Sure, people would STFU about that. But that would be like the masses telling Peterbilt they should be using discs in their semis to appease the masses and nothing more.
@@channelnamehere4065 you fell for their nonsense, too, I guess. Drums have no benefits over discs, off road or otherwise. They are more complex, they provide less braking ability, less control, and if you get them wet then they are even worse. I've owned vehicles with drums all around, both off road vehicles as well as large on road vehicles. Drums are absolute garbage. The only reason Toyota gets away with using drums out back with the Taco is because rear brakes don't do the heavy lifting compared to the fronts. Rear discs with drum parking brakes are generally a non-issue as the shoes for the parking brake should have no problem lasting for the life of the vehicle or close to it. Would I prefer calipers with parking brake functionality? Sure. But drums for parking brakes are fine as well, they get the job done. Drums for service brakes are nothing but a hassle, don't let Toyota try and convince you otherwise.
@@dieseldrax they must know something if they're sticking to their guns and not retrofitting with $40 rotors in one of the refresh cycles... I'm not convinced of anything, but it's Toyota - they usually have a reason to engineer something the way they do, given their parts bin...maybe it's by design for psychological reasons? To make owners think that since they never have to touch the rear brakes, that it's attributed to reliability?
@@channelnamehere4065 when you save $40 per vehicle over 250k vehicles it’s $1m…
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It’s a fact that drums are terrible. Their only advantage is more braking force due to the shoes having more surface area but that’s meaningless since both systems can generate more than enough force to lock the wheels.
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Drums have poor cooling which means traction control will over heat them quicker.
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Drums capture debris and water, so driving through mud and puddles can cause significant losses in braking.
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Rotors are self cleaning. Rotors have superior cooling. Rotors do not retain debris on the braking surfaces.
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Toyota is a cheap brand. Had two and they are garbage. Interior quality is poor, adhesives come apart, actuators and solenoids fail often.
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And their engineer Sweers lies through his teeth. He said that tundra owners don’t want a locker so it was unavailable, but now they want it. He said the million mile tundra had a couple water pumps and that was it, but forgot to mention the 10 so odd timing belt changes at the least. He also said they like the bendy frame was desired for better articulation. Wonder what that weak rear section goes through when you max it’s 900 lbs payload capacity.
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News flash, Toyota is a company made of people. They don’t have the best engineers in the world, nor do they have sole access to tech or materials to make them special wakandan machines. They get a majority of their parts from suppliers that provide parts for dozens of Manufacturers. So when everyone else does the more expensive route it’s for a reason. This proved by Toyota themselves going that route on most of not all of those sad excuses.
I was falling in love with this until you said the 3rd row is permanent.... WTF I want to sleep in the back, and use it for camping... That's super disappointing.
Yeah I agree
Lol that’s one expensive badass tent
why are 3rd row seats, not an option, instead of standard? waste of money for most who will never need them.
Do you know how to work a die cutter? Nothing is permanent!
@@m1t2a1 Yes, I love paying for something just to cut it out. maybe I could just pay extra and have them cut it out for me after I paid to include it in the car. 🙂
This is exactly what the new 4Runner needs to be when they redesign it in 2065.
I'm hoping they don't... they are going to add a bunch of shit that's going to be easy to break. Inevitably they're going to add more electronics and a more complicated engine. Shit that can't be easily fixed when I'm days away from society. It was one of the last good reliable vehicles.
Such a miss in the third row and cargo space due to unremovable seats. Thanks for calling Toyota out on this.
I dunno, I think they made a mistake with the 3rd row. I really think they should have designed it to come out with ease. I mean sure, if you really want to take it out then you can. But to remove the second-row adjustment or it... I think they may have been trying too hard to achieve other things.
The Sequoia has been a great off-roader, I would have liked to have seen a better approach angle at the front, or at least a fast release section front lower fender, and a slightly better departure angle to the rear also.
I'm in two minds in that one, having removed a few different third rows they are quite the bear to drag out, so I don't know how often I'd attempt that in reality, however I think the Hybrid battery location is probably why they didn't do it here, maybe the floor isn't even flat underneath.
I think this might be my next car. I’m driving a 5th gen 4runner currently. The cars I’ve been looking at are the new defender, new Range Rover sport, and rivian r1t. This costs around the same as the defender, it looks more rugged than all of the other ones, it’s just as capable off road, and it’s huge. Nice work Toyota. Give me a TRD pro with the sound insulated windows and it’s perfect. I like the way the LX looks but it’s super cramped inside. Feels like the defender.
I think Sr5 off road package seems the way to go here. For $80k, I'm thinking the used domestic SUV market would offer better bargain and more features for the money.
I think this looks promising for the next gen 4runner.
Toyota will be the most reliable and you'll get the most for your money. Rivian, on the the other hand, I dont know how reliable that is, whether bad or good.
I have had an R1S deposit/preorder since last year, but I am now second guessing it based on this new Sequoia.
are u gonna exchange a V8 for a V6 with turbocharge?!
You give the best reviews when I want to know the off road chops of a model. You explain things well for us novices.
Please just give us the option to omit the third row - not everyone needs to cart the neighborhood around. We value storage space over all else.
agreed, they chose the nickel metal hydride batteries which are twice as heavy and less energy dense than the lithium option.
if anything, they should have used lithium-based batteries and stored the entire unit outside in the spare tire well.
then the interior would be flat.
the reason toyota did this is because the tundra also stupidly uses NiMH batteries. Toyota's well-documented "Stagnation Tactics" prevent them from innovating.
They even got called out at a shareholder's meeting by two major worldwide pension and investment firms. Toyota basically said that "If customers wanted these different options, they would buy cars with them". Which is complete BS.
Agree! My 2019 Explorer has only had people in the 3rd row (while on vacation) 3 times in 3 years... I do need the storage space though, so removable 3rd row would be fantastic; however a 2 row Explorer, I would have gone for that in a heartbeat for even more cargo space
I completely agree. With the second row not laying flat it’s already hurting for storage space. Will likely be the reason I go with the new Wagoneer.
Just like all these new minivans... Can't remove the seats. That's insane to me.
Third row seat adds cost for what is a negative feature to me.
There’s a good chance I will buy something else because of it.
I was considering this heavily until the 3rd row. Bought a 5th gen 4 runner trd off road because i didn’t want a 3rd row. They should really offer something like that for this.
One Pt I always knew about yota, can roll back window down, take 3rd row out and sunroof Tacoma
This sequoia looks like a tribute to a casio gshock. If i ever wanted to drive a casio, here it is.
Bro what a perfect description!. Haha you really nailed it man, this definitely rang some bells in the sacred geometry part of my brain.
Spot on 😂😂
Damn, I was holding out for the 2023 redesign but the third row is a deal breaker.
You can do what they did to 2nd row of sienna
They could have done a Land Cruiser third row flip up seats. Anyway, engineers fucked that up.
@@thegreatlakestrucker or GX and they fold down all the way flush. Can’t fit dogs in the back of this unless they’re crawling all over the 3rd row seat. Way to go Toyota.
@@tc2703 No shit. Let's take something that has worked perfectly, make it a pain in the arse, and call it an invention. smh
Ya know Ryan, I've called Toyota, "the Great Compromiser", because their product development teams are very artful at mixing and matching equipment and features with a target price in mind. But it looks like the 2023 Sequoia may have been a victim of inflation as the desirable features can send prices above $80k. Of course any shortcomings of the new Sequoia can be excused since there wasn't suppose to be a new Sequoia, it was scheduled for cancellation! So, maybe a solid rear axle can be forgiven? Better than no Sequoia at all. Thank you, Ryan!
Toyota is garbage these days
Solid rear axle is better for towing and going off road 😂😂
@@JeepCherokeeful someone who drives a jeep cherokee should not be talking about garbage cars...
@@canobeansyummers1667 LOL. There is a reason Toyota has sold over 50 million Corollas and over 10 million Land Cruisers. As far as reliability, durability and value, Toyota is unrivalled in the automotive industry.
The very fact that I never cared for a Sequoia before but was able to convince the wife to trade in the minivan is indication (anecdotal) it's going to sell well.
Lol I like how they show a mansion behind the capstone trim. That’s hilarious and is spot on.
Love the vehicle. Love the red interior.
It’s too big for our needs, but would buy one if we needed a bigger suv.
This is the most informative review of the TRD PRO that I've seen.
Toyota makes a BIG mistake by NOT offering an extended length version like Ford and GM do. With 3rd row seat up, there is essentially no room for cargo.
The 3rd row is something I'll have to see to believe. I just don't see how it can seat anyone other than small kids especially since it's sitting right on top of the electric motor. I have also read that even in the 2nd row, the head room isn't that great and worse with the pano roof. Biggest complaint I have is the shelf system they have. I understand the space is going to be limited because of the constraints placed by having the electric motor back there, but the 3rd row doesn't fold flat and to try to mitigate this, they came up with the shelf system which just seems far too cumbersome with too many moving parts. I was waiting for this review, btw. Big fan of yours.
The Center Row is atrocious. They opted for the flat floor in the cabin so you lose out on 3 inches of headroom.
If they kept it traditional and allowed the seats to be sunken into the floor, especially for the captains chairs, it would've been great.
Unfortunately, Toyota compromised by making the Sequoia a Minivan.
IME Toyota have not quite caught up to the idea of accommodating tall people. A couple of years back I was looking at a RAV4, I'm 6' 4" and a reasonably athletic build, but between the oversized center console and the hard door trim on a rental unit I tried before going to buy one, it was a deal breaker for me, uncomfortable on the open road over distance, it just didn't seem to be designed with taller than average people in mind. On a vehicle the size of a Sequoia there shouldn't be headroom issues at all.
I love the look of the Toyota Sequoia. It’s my favorite large full size SUV on the outside. I am a little frustrated by the second and third row on the inside. I LOVE red interior.
All great, but it's a pity that there is no version with three differential locks, and fulltime 4wd also missing
I just bought a 2023 Sequoia Capstone. It did not come with MTS or Crawl Control. Can Toyota install these features if I want them - or is it too late?
Wouldve been my next but that 3rd row is a no go. Hopefully in the future they have an option for just 2 rows
the less than stellar trunk space and low head height in the 2nd row is a huge oversight. So many better ways to do it. Are that many people asking for a third row ?? I wouldve much rather seen more trunk space. Do sequoia buyers care for a panoramic moonroof or a reg moonroof even?
Honestly he’s the only reviewer who has noticed and pointed out that the Falken wildpeaks that come stock on the new trd pro tundras and trd pro sequoias are different than the Falken wildpeak at3w that you buy by itself. I’ve run Falken wildpeaks on my 4runner for years now and they are way more aggressive than what’s on these stock trd pros. I guess Falken changed the tread depth for Toyota for maybe better mpg but I’m not sure. I don’t see it making a huge difference but the tread and even the sidewall design are not nearly as aggressive as normal Falken wildpeaks.
Probably to meet noise specs too
Maybe they’re T rated rather than C or E rated?Not familiar with Wildpeaks but my Open Country AT3’s are T rated on my 4Runner. They look less aggressive to me vs their E rated version.
@@scottreisig yeah that’s prolly it then. He did say it doesn’t have the 3 peak snowflake sign that Falken wildpeaks have and what they are known for.
the tread design on the OE/OEM wildpeaks are less aggressive, in order to meet noise/comfort criteria for Toyota. They also tend to weigh less compared to the off-the-shelf AT3ws, which aid in the comfort, braking/accel, and MPG criteria. This applies to majority of the OE/OEM tires on new vehicles vs. aftermarket
thanks for the great videos... on a slightly different note, any recommendations on a decent windshield mount for gopro? thanks!!
Get a threaded adaptor and a Delkin Gecko.
I cant believe they made such a great SUV and put such a cheap 4wheel drive system instaid of giving it the full Land Cruiser 4wheel drive system.
Gotta say not being able to remove the rear seat is kind of a dealbreaker for me and the fact that it's part of the battery compartment just kinda makes me dislike the electrification of this SUV even more. I don't want the added complexity or weight of the electric stuff, especially for something I'm going to take off-road. I could be ok with it because I'm sure it's seamless and improves fuel economy, plus it's Toyota so I'm sure it's reliable and all that. But having that system means I can't remove the backseat? C'mon, man! Also, I lament the lack of fulltime 4WD as well. For big SUVs like this, I like the added confidence of having more traction for mixed driving conditions. I love the way this thing looks inside and out, but damn there are some things I wish they had done different.
3rd seat not being able to remove is a disappointment, but still better interior than Tahoe, better engine(economically), better infotainment made me stay with the Sequoia.
it's removable, just not "easy" kinda like the LC200 seats you have to grab a tool set
@@Northern_Ty But what if the electricals are hardwired? Best scenario, there would be some kind of snap connection for the wires. But it sounds like for legal reasons and regulations, Toyota wants to discourage people from removing the 3rd row.
@@ryant1090 not sure of the process, but saw another video that said it could be done per the engineers - just not recommended based on the location of the batteries underneath. I think as you stated, its more safety (legal) than anything with the reasoning
Yea, third row is a bit disappointed. Also, second not adjustable plus the stupid bump from pano roof.
Great review, Ryan! As has been shared, one of the better ones. FWIW, I would see including full time 4WD as a negative. More to go wrong, and really don't need it. PT will do much better when 4WD is really needed and will give you better mileage when not needed. LOVE the fact you included Toyota tech's talking in the vid. Very helpful. Thank you! Good stuff.
Maybe not for you, but us in north western pacific get rain 70% of the year it would be nice
Good point about PT! Ryan indeed did a good review, I just don't quite understand why he is so obsessed with full time 4WD.
Personally, I don't want full time AWD. If it's genuinely too slippery for RWD, 4HI is safe to use. I don't need the extra weight and complexity.
Really irked by the inability to remove the 3rd row. That will kill the deal for me. I want to use this for work and this just kills it.
It killed for everyone who is smart
I don't go off road but I want a safe SUV in the snow and the rain for my family. Do I need this 4wheel drive system on this 2023 Sequoia or TRD Sport 2wheel will be good enough? Would you please cover the drive modes for those who like the reliability and the look of the Sequoia but they don't go off road but want safe SUV for different conditions?
Ryan, I suspect truck buyers will be fine with the solid rear axle but luxury buyers won't be. With full size (electric) pickups now coming to market with IRS, it is a tough call determining whether Toyota did the right thing choosing the solid axle for Sequoia. The way for Toyota to deliver Land Cruiser capability to North American buyers is actually quite simple, they could just sell us the damn Land Cruiser!!
I guess it’s just cheaper for manufacturing by sharing the same suspension between tundra and sequoia. Since Toyota don’t sell sequoia a lot, they might think it’s no longer worth it to develop IRS specifically for sequoia.
Does the G Class still have a solid rear axle? I think if they nail the design and tune the handling it can be acceptable by the target demographic.
Solid rear will always be a better off-road option. The articulation on a Grand Cherokee is terrible in comparison to SRA, BOF vehicles, for example.
@@mikewright2858 How many people will take this behemoth of an SUV to an off-road situation to need that degree of articulation?
@@mikewright2858 Have you seen how much flex guys are getting out of the first gen Sequoia rear axle, it's shocking.
It was mid 2009 when i saw this beast, first time in my own eyes in saudi arabia. It was absolutely a beauty
Thank you very much for the candid and honest review of the 2023 Sequoia TRD Pro. Really appreciate you calling Toyota out on the two big losses vs the outgoing model: much decreased interior space and cargo volume, and the loss of full-time 4WD with the lockable Torsion centre diff.
I know Toyota is still closely controlling the narrative, but can you please do a side by side comparison between a 2021/22 2nd Gen Sequoia TRD Pro and the 2023 Sequoia TRD Pro when you have the chance?
I think that would be a great characterization of the differences and what is gained / lost with this model.
Cheers, and please keep these reviews going, really appreciate the info.
I can't wait for the aftermarket to resolve the third-row issue. Many potential buyers want it out in favour of cargo space.
I wonder if because of the Hybrid battery location the floor itself is not flat under the seats and that is the real issue as to why they are not removable, and there isn't an option with no 3rd row.
Man. I’m can’t wait to see the insane mark up on the Pro trim lmao
$78k
@@boondockbilly4788 Fuck that
You mention that driving in 4H can "bind the transmission" when I had my 2010 Sequoia I set it to 4H during winter and I didn't notice and issues. Is that something specific to this model year?
Would driving in 4H during the winter months damage the transmission on the new Sequoias?
Running on dry roads with 4H is horrible on driveline components
The lack of an AWD mode for the road does seem a bit of an omission, ultimately it's no different from my Pickup truck in that sense, but when you are on slick wet roads, or with a bit of snow here and there, I have to say I like the AWD of my Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk in that you can just hit the gas in any conditions and the vehicle responds without drama, something I particularly like when my wife is driving in poor conditions.
What makes you so sure driving in 4x4 will bind the toyota transfer case?
I freaking love these... Toyota is going to sell the crap out of them.. Looks so good too.. Well done Toyota, well done..
Is there a new law where the name of your car has to be visible from the back at a minimum of 2 miles?
Great review, Ryan, and very objective (in my view). I agree that the loss of AWD is a major bummer. I'd really rather have the transfer case from the LX or the new GX (assuming it will be AWD, too). Cheers.
Not a “bummer”, a scratch from any informed snow-belt dweller!
@@JeepCherokeeful agreed, would prefer part time 4wd. once 4wd is engaged, boom, that's your center lock. once the rear locker is engaged, boom, can climb up and out of almost anything.
i can't imagine one situation where AWD helped w/ anything besides burning gas faster on a bigass vehicle.
@styledliving It allows you to drive on mixed slippery surfaces without trashing your transfer case. It also means between tons of wheel slip or the traction control killing all your power. Plus the difference in fuel economy is practically nothing. The EPA rates it exactly the same in part time or full time 4WD systems. So the torsen set up is entirely mechanical. Unlike the electronic systems that overheat in a lot of American trucks
Fortunately for My family, the 3rd row issue isn't really an issue for us. We already have a 3 row SUV that has a 3rd row that folds flat (Telluride) so having both the telluride and a sequoia gives us tons of options. Dad gets the more capable and powerful beast while mom gets the more refined and luxurious cabin.
I really hope 6th gen 4runner will come with front locker included to make a difference between the sequoia
unfortunately, you'll have to keep dreaming or purchase an ARB air locker. Toyota isn't known for innovation, they use "stagnation tactics" so they don't have to upgrade stuff while raking in the profits from the fact people will buy whatever they sell them.
Thanks for the thorough review. One RUclipsr mentioned hesitation or chatter “Chadder” when the car switched from electric motor to gasoline engine? What are your thoughts? Was that hybrid to gasoline transition felt when you drove it or was it smooth?
It was smooth for us. But we only drove it for one day and in pretty level conditions.
@@drivingsports ok, thank you!
Just a hunch but I have a suspicion with why no full-time 4WD w/ locking center diff was designed was due to the weight and economy. This is a heavy vehicle with the hybrid motor and I think full-time 4 wheel drive would be a big hit to economy ( also could be a cost cutting move). And complain all you want about economy not being important in a vehicle this big but it's pretty damn important to Toyota hence the axing of the v8
On the other side, having a selectable automatic 4wheel system would be adding a degree of complexity that Toyota may not be willing to add on to this and from what I can understand, transfer cases which accomodate 2wd, 4hi, 4lo and 4Auto are fairly complex and expensive and a nightmare to repair of they break (think overheating a clutch if 4A was accidentally left on when offroading).
Full-time 4wd would have been ideal but looks like that may have made this vehicle too expensive (it's already at an eye-watering price as is)
Quite the assessment! I think hybrid powertrain is part of reason it doesn't have full-time 4WD like last gen. It's a soccer mom vehicle so you'd think full-time 4WD is the way to go, but it seems they have to compromise for longevity by not including one.
I'll REALLY be interested to see how this new one performs compared to the Gen 2.
Useful and informative review as usual. Thanks!
3-rd row in reality turn some customers away from buying it. Not only it adds extra cost for not needed "feature", but it is also inconvenient. For example in my Jeep Grand Cherokee I can fold rear seats and it makes a flat flor. I can sleep in it. All I need is a sleeping bag. I don't have to setup tent when going fishing or hunting. This vehicle bigger and more expensive, but doesn't have that useful option.
Technical question: when you activate the rear locker at 27:57 , aren't you supposed to press the trac system button and disable it? I mean, to turn off the trac system also.
Thank you,
Not necessary. The system is aware when it’s turned on and will work with the rear locker.
@@drivingsports Thank you! Greetings from México
Great review as always. I’ve come around a bit on the lack of center diff. If one wants a supersized and more efficient and modern 4Runner TRD Pro this is the perfect vehicle. One burning question I have is whether Toyota will offer the same TRD lift kit they offered to Tundra. It would look much nicer and capable with that kit and 35” tires on the Sequoia
Pass on the garbage "TRD" lift kit. Total Chaos Long Travel and King Shocks all day long.
A proper long travel or even extended travel kit with upper control arms will have much better stance and utility any day.
The TRD shocks are Fox, but not made for any real offroad duty. You should look at Accutune's offerings for custom valved King Shocks. Much better than IVD suspension since they do nothing but leak all day long because of the horrible seals they use.
Interesting that they didn't use the regular Falken Wildpeaks AT tire. Probably so it gets better gas mileage... but the regular Wildpeaks are such great tires that you hope these slightly downgraded ones are equally as good.
The regular Wildpeaks have a much, much longer wear life than the Toyota OEM tires. I think it's a combination of better economy and (mostly) cost savings.
Can someone please explain what advantage the always-on 4x4 in the Lexus LX600 gives? He mentions it several times but doesn't actually explain the advantage. Confusingly he says some people would like it when on normal driving conditions, I would have thought such a feature is only for off-road conditions.
Awesome review Ryan! I really think Toyota could’ve had a winner but for the third row and part time 4wd. I understand the third row due to the battery pack placement, but part time 4wd…wtf?! I thought that was left behind in the late 90s and I can’t see people requesting that. The decision to use part time 4wd feels like cost cutting or a push for weight reduction. They could’ve at least thrown in the land cruiser/LX full time system on the trd pro and capstone trims. Do you think the 4 runner will go this route ?
You've always had an awesome intro with a great song but the glass breaking sound when the logo drops sounds kinda weak. How about changing it to something more 'murica like an explosion or at least a larger impact?
Great review. Thumbs up. Have you learned the official city/highway mph estimates yet since you did this video, if so what are they? Also, does thisTRD Pro come with adjustable air suspension to gain an extra inch or two in height? (The Platinum does not, but someone told me they thought the higher trims did). Also, I don't understand what "part-time 4H or 4L means. Since there is no formal Auto which switches between 2 and 4 wheel drive, does part-time 4H or 4L mean it will not remain in 4H until changed out, but will in effect act like an auto option, switching b/t 2 and 4 wheel drive as needed, but never remaining in 4 wheel all the time? Thanks.
The air suspension is just for tow leveling. Does not affect ride height. MPG is rated at 19/22 for 4WD models.
@@drivingsports Thanks. And thanks for such a fast response. I am impressed, and appreciative. And that's a great MPG rating for such an suv. I also love the twin turbo given that I live and frequent high altitudes and mountain driving. I actually like the rear layout with that adjustable shelf, b/c since I rarely would need the 3rd row for people, I could just leave the 3rd row down, place that shelf to level that rear space out, and have some hidden room beneath the shelf to store things that I always like to keep in my vehicle "in case needed", but from inside looking back the rear area looks clean and uncluttered when not loaded with things. I really like that. Was concerned about the 2nd and 3rd row headroom, but since both rows have reclining seats that solves that concern. My main concern now is the lack of an "Auto" feature and "full time" 4H or 4L, that could be a breaker for me. You actually make it sound like the part-time 4H and 4L are in effect the same thing as the "Auto" feature on other suv's, which leaves the problem being no full-time 4H and 4L. I am going to look at the Lexus LX600 as you mentioned to see if that makes up for my main concern here but without too many trade-offs. Again, thanks for a great review and fast reply. If you have any more input on the lack of an "Auto" feature and "full-time" versus "part-time" 4H and 4L I'd welcome those additional thoughts.
@@Nate-zy5ce Nothing really to add regarding full time vs on-demand 4WD. It’s one of those features that’s pretty cut and dry. Can someone that wants full time live with part time? Sure. But you’ll be complaining every time you’re in mixed surface conditions. 😂
why not make the second row seats slide? would it make it more useful?
So the regular sunroof will give you more 2nd row headroom?
The Regular Sequioa without battery pack, you can remove 3rd seats?
This will be my next SUV (if it's in stock in the next year or so LOL)
I added MTS to my GX460 and ..it’s the loudest you’ve ever heard!
What a beautiful truck, that payload cap is sick! It could haul around my mini excavator.
Nice review, always a good review👌🏼
Question: What's the point of such a large vehicle if smaller vehicles (ie Ford Explorer) have even more cargo space? Is it the towing capacity?
Preference, vato.
Sequoia will be offered in 2WD or the available part-time 4WD system on SR5, Limited, Platinum and Capstone grades. TRD Pro will be offered only in 4WD. The part-time 4WD system relies on a transfer case, controlled via a lever on the center console, to select between 2WD, 4WD high or 4WD low.
Did you have the ac on during the 0 to 60? If so, wouldn't that slow it down a bit?
It was on, but AC doesn't affect 0-60 times in most cars anymore.
100% big miss not having @ least one trim with Full-Time 4WD >> that makes it a pass for me but it does look fantastic. Curious to see how many issues there are with this new motor. Also.. kinda odd the LX600 doesn't use this hybrid engine.. anyone know why?
Glad they didn't cancel production of the Sequoia like they planned a few years ago.
personally I think the part-time four-wheel drive is a plus because that style of transfer case is stronger as long as you use it properly but that's my opinion the full time four wheel drive is great for warrant on experienced driver and bad weather
Only car in the world with all the vowels in its name!!
Man if they made the third row bigger, this would be PERFECT for me; otherwise a deal breaker. Any chance they’ll come out with a long wheel base one? 🙏
Damn if you need something bigger than this you might as well get a minivan. The other full size suvs like suburban and expedition might be bigger but not nearly as capable off road as this will be with the solid rear axle and will be more nimble with a shorter wheelbase. Toyota still kept in mind overlanding and off roading for this new design whereas the other full size suvs aren’t really designed for that. They might have cute little off road trims but the different modes and 4x4 on those other full size suvs are mainly for a dirt road or for different everyday weather conditions. I’d take the sequoia anyday if you are actually using it to overland and off road over any other full size suv besides a land cruiser but a land cruiser is kinda in between a full size and midsize. Same thing for this.
@@andyham6094 I mean let’s face it the third row is just crap. Trucks like the Tahoe/Expedition are just better in terms of passenger space but they suck in other aspects that the Sequoia is great at.
And you’re right, a minivan will probably work for me but would’ve loved to have my cake and eat it too with the Sequoia. Missed opportunity for Toyota to really get it fully right imo.
I dont like captains chair. Does this come with regular bucket seats?
Yes.
The first thing I did when I bought my 100 series land cruiser was take out the third row. The second thing I did was take out the second row. Gotta be able to sleep back there. Also the hybrid battery being there is a bad excuse. I'd prefer a non hybrid twin turbo personally. If not a v8...
Do the 2nd and 3rd row fold flat?
Everything you need in you last video about this car , now it's available ❤️
Give me a non-hybrid option without the battery pack, delete the 3rd row seats and flatten the cargo floor and I'll get this. As it's packaged right now it doesn't work for me. Guess i'll wait to see what the next gen 4runner is like.
I wonder how "difficult" it is to remove the third row. I have removed the third row from my Lexus GX460 which are also heavy and power operated. Would be good for somebody to try :)
Not very difficult. it'll require unbolting stuff and removing the wiring harness. and very likely because it was never meant to be removed, there won't be carpet over the battery pack.
it's possible that you might have to remove some body panels, but toyota body panels a majority of the time snap in and out of place.
Is it body on frame or uni body
Be itself it’s a reasonable product.
When considering lack of Land Cruiser, and Toyota’s opinion that this replaces it, this is strange product.
Where can i find this?? Im in FL & dealerships are telling me 3+ years till itll be available?! 😩
It should be in production later this year. Call another dealer. We've worked with the AutoNation Toyota stores down there (not a sponsor) and they should give you a straight answer.
Readings all these negative comments makes me happy. Less competition/lower price for me to get one :)
Will have to wait until they fix the major design flaws like the second and third row.
Stuck between the 2023 4runner, a 2023 z71 tahoe, and the redesigned 4runner. I like the sequoia but, for that price, I'd prefer a z71 tahoe with a 6.2. I don't care for turbo motors. Hopefully on the redesigned 4runner they stick with the naturally aspirated motor, with an updated interior / exterior without getting to close to the price of the tahoe.
You mean the 2024 or 2025 Sequoia? Good luck getting one anytime soon.
Are those AT Trails and not AT3/W?
We get no updated 4runner. I have 2021 model and I think I m going to get this model next. InshAllah
I really like your reviews, you're generally the first I go to. One thing though, at 3:10 the Toyota rep says it can tow 9,520lbs but your captions say 9,020. Is that intentional or was it a mistake?
9500lbs is only for base 2WD model. Higher end 4WD has lower tow cap
If I want the TRD Pro but not red leather, is it possible?
Pointing out that the red seats are red is nice and all 😀 but options would be nice to point out too.
Yes, black is optional.
I did mention the red was optional. Black was also available. But you might have missed it.
Can this be ordered without the third row?
Great video once again man not in the market but still very much enjoy watching all your videos and learning more n more thanks dude
where are they hearing from the customers? ive never been asked to do a survey on anything new ive purchased and havent ever spoke to anyone that has done a survey. so where are they coming from about there hearing from customers??
I'd love to compare the off road capability of this with a much older Land Cruiser and/or LX570.
Ryan keeps talking about not being able to drive in 4wd on pavement. I have a 2006 4Runner and in the winter sometimes I leave it in 4wd for DAYS, and have never had an issue. Is there something different about the 2023 Sequoia's 4wd system that makes it so it can't do that?
Just because you can, doesn't mean you should (unless you have a 4Runner Limited.)
@@drivingsports Fair point. Also, I forgot to thank you SO MUCH for pointing this out in your review. I was headed into a purchase of a new Sequoia without even realizing there's a difference between my 4Runner's 4wD with center diff and the new Sequoia's. Thanks to you, I'm now much more educated about the difference. That's a big deal, I'm surprised more reviewers aren't pointing it out. Great Review!
Can you remove the competitors 3rd row when it's power fold?
Not power folding. However you can order the Tahoe as a two-row. The issue isn’t that they’re not removable it’s that you can’t buy it as a two row and they’re not removable.
@@drivingsports well that sucks. Thanks for clarifying.
Wish we would have gotten that front end on the Tundra…
It doesn’t look like the seats fold flat. Is that true of all trims? That’s a dealbreaker for me
I really miss the stand alone turn signal indicator rather the brake and turn function. All previous generation Sequoia has that stand alone turn signal function. To not have the third row seat to fully fold flat is almost a deal breaker. It's quite weird to not have the third row seat folded flush with the rest of the rear floor. Also, we need a non- hybrid version available as a entry level vehicle.
Can't fold flat with big ol battery! Pass!
Love it, but can we finally get new rims..
can anyone explain me what is binding when u are in 4 high turning in the city?
Can someone explain why he says “unfortunately it’s a part time 4WD system” aren’t all 4x4s like this? Why would you want to be in 4WD all the time?
We had the explanation in this video but it was already running long. As we’ve demonstrated in other videos, part time locks the center transfer case which means you can’t turn without binding the front and back wheels on pavement. It’s a loose surface 4WD solution only.
As Ryan said, the concern with part-time vs full-time is when you are driving on mixed surfaces, like winter in New England where some pavement is slippery and some has full traction. A full-time 4WD would be able to sort this out on the fly, but putting a part-time 4WD into 4WD mode would potentially grenade the system when on the grippy sections.
@@robertwinston2496 Exactly having lived in NE and had a AWD SUV it saved my Butt several times on mixed surface roads
@@drivingsports Love your reviews. Agree on AWD. Once you had full-time 4WD you would never go back to part-time 4WD especially for everyday driving. THe only time when part-time has an advantaged is at very slow speeds for rock crawling.
Most people who will buy this have no idea what center or rear diff locks even are. They also won't be taking this offroad on anything more challenging than a slightly bumpy dirt road. It's not meant for those scenarios where you'd need what you're saying (too wide, too low ground clearance, and too poor approach/breakover/departure angles for trails that'd need these features). Not having a center diff lock, solid rear axle, or full time 4x4 is in no way going to limit people from buying this.
Can I get a rear diff locker in the capstone
Absolutely My Favorite for sooo many reasons….