The 2023 Toyota Sequoia is Entirely Reworked, Now Exclusively a Hybrid

• The Sequoia is based on the Tundra pickup, which entered a new generation last year

• The new model will be powered exclusively by the i-Force Max hybrid engine

• The three-row SUV will be able to tow up to 9,520 pounds

Toyota unveiled the next generation of the Sequoia full-size SUV which is based heavily on the Tundra pickup that was entirely renewed last year.

This truck-based three-row SUV continues to share its mechanicals and most of its styling cues with the automaker’s full-size pickup, which means it features the latest design direction from Toyota.

From the front, the resemblance with the Tundra is evident due to the large grille and the distinctive headlamps that include a T-shaped daytime running light.

When viewed from the side, the sharp character lines and the various body creases contribute to giving the new Sequoia a more robust look that hints at its capabilities.

Under the hood, the Sequoia abandons its V8 engine and becomes a hybrid. Unlike the truck on which it is based, only one powertrain is offered in the new Sequoia: The i-Force Max hybrid engine.

This powertrain combines a twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine with a small electric motor sandwiched between the engine and the 10-speed automatic transmission. This makes for an output of 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, which is 56 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque more than the previous V8 could manage.

Despite this increase in power, the fuel economy should also improve and Toyota expects the Sequoia to be among the most fuel-efficient entries into its market segment, although we will have to wait for the official EPA numbers to verify this claim.

The increase in engine output combined with a stronger ladder frame allows the towing capacity to be raised by 26% over last year’s model to reach 9,520 pounds. Towing with the Sequoia can be further helped by choosing the available load-leveling air suspension and the tow tech package, which includes the trailer backup guide to help place a trailer where the driver wants it and the straight path assist, which can take control of the steering in order to keep the trailer straight while backing up.

Inside, the Sequoia shows its truck lineage once again since its dashboard looks very similar to the one found in the new Tundra. This means that the controls are large and the dashboard is upright in order to convey an impression of ruggedness and solidity. Since the Sequoia also needs to be luxurious and comfortable, the materials used throughout the cabin are chosen to enhance the feeling of quality.

Like the Tundra, the 2023 Sequoia will be among the first Toyota vehicles to receive the brand’s all-new infotainment system, called Toyota Audio Multimedia. This system is controlled via the standard 8-inch touchscreen or the available 14-inch unit and it features the Intelligent Assistant which can be used to control most functions of the system by voice commands after saying “Hey Toyota”. This system is also capable of over-the-air updates and the navigation system includes Google-based points of interest, which make searching for a destination easier.

When it arrives on dealer lots later this summer, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia will be available in five trim levels that will range from the entry-level SR5 to the top-of-the-line Capstone, which will be the most luxurious Sequoia ever. The TRD Pro will also be part of the range, with its off-road focused elements such as its exclusive FOX shock absorbers and its electronic crawl control.

Toyota has not yet revealed the pricing for the 2023 Sequoia in Canada, but this information is expected soon since the model will be launched here in only a few months.