The full-size SUV market is turning to smaller displacement. Nowadays, there are fewer V8 mills and companies tend to tune V6 units for big rigs. Toyota did it with the I-Force system. Now, a turbocharged six-pot engine is under the hood of its full-size SUVs and trucks. After the Tundra and Lexus LX, the 2024 Toyota Sequoia introduces the 3.5-liter mill with exceptional performances. If you ever wondered why a V6 can’t replace a V8, the Japanese company is there to assure you everything is possible.
Well, Toyota is not the first company to figure this out. For some while, Ford Expedition is a class leader in towing capacity, although it is using a V6. Still, other carmakers relied on the proven V8 setups. Durable engines with exceptional performances had a major downside – fuel consumption. Just a reminder – previous versions of Sequoia did 15 mpg combined. Even if you have money for wasting, frequent visits to the gas stations are quite annoying. The I-Force setup is here to fix the issue.
New Engine Specs
The third generation of the big rig has just debuted. From now on, the SUV is using a smaller engine and a new platform. Of course, Toyota keeps the full-size model on the ladder frame. The GA-F architecture is updated and ready to serve for a long time. Durability is one of the main advantages of body-on-frame vehicles.
Under the bonnet of the 2024 Toyota Sequoia is a 3.4-liter (some say 3.5-liter) displacement. Precisely, it is a 3.445-l mill. Turbochargers are boosting power outputs to 389 hp and 479 lb-ft. In both sections, improvements compared to the previous version are noteworthy. A V8 could do 380 hp and 401 lb-ft. Still, the I-Force system still has to prove its durability and performance in the toughest conditions. The major concern is now fixed. The gas mileage is around 20 mpg combined. Plus, the towing capacity of the new 2024 Sequoia is 9,000 pounds. A 5.7-liter V8 could do only 7,400 lbs.
2024 Toyota Sequoia Hybrid
More novelties are expected from the 2024 Sequoia. The new I-Force engine will be available on the upcoming model, but the following edition should bring something even better. That is the I-Force Max. Electric support enhances outputs and maximizes power and torque. The 2024 Toyota Sequoia hybrid is good for 437 hp and 589 lb-ft. This is going to place the SUV alongside German performance models, such as BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS. Still, Toyota is not chasing the high-end SUVs that can deliver 500+ horsepower and sprint 0-60 mph in less than 5 seconds.
Trim Levels: New Capstone Model
Not only that the drivetrain lineup is revisited. The third generation of the SUV comes with a new lineup of trim levels. Although some nameplates are familiar, options are reshuffled and upgraded. The SR5 is the entry version. The mid-range offer includes Limited and Platinum packages. The new range-topping version is the 2024 Toyota Sequoia Capstone. Of course, the TRD PRO remains the 4×4 specialist.
The SUV is a three-row eight-passenger vehicle. The capacity drops to seven with captain’s chairs in the middle row. Maximum cargo space reaches 87 cubic feet with all the seats folded. The SR5 model is not going to stun you with the offer. Just for example – while it comes with an 8-inch touchscreen, all other versions are using the 14-inch display. We can say the same for many other options. Still, we must admit that the interior is a big upgrade compared to the previous edition.
The 2024 Toyota Sequoia Capstone is the new high-end trim. It is close to the base Lexus LX with an $80,000 price tag. The premium offer includes massive 22-inch wheels, unique details, and noise-canceling technology. Inside, the genuine leather upholstery maximizes the comfort and premium feel. Panorama roof is one of the best options you won’t find elsewhere. Of course, ventilated seats are standard.
Updated 2024 Toyota Sequoia TRD PRO
The Capstone edition is definitely drawing attention with its premium options. But, the 2024 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro is the model that makes the difference. Specially designed for the toughest terrain and weather, the package is drawing attention since its arrival in 2015. Well, the big rig introduced it in 2020. Now, it is time for upgrades and the new version of the TRD Pro package can deliver some big things. Toyota is not unveiling details. So, we will follow what is going on in the rest of the lineup – Tundra and Tacoma trucks, and 4Runner SUV.
2024 Toyota Sequoia Price
As expected, the new generation of the SUV costs more than its predecessor. The MSRP started at $52,000 for the last edition of the second gen, and now it is just under $60,000. Experts are not surprised, since the cost of parts went up in the past 12 months. The TRD Pro is expected to cost around $75,000 and the Capstone is the most expensive configuration.
