The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV produced by Toyota since 2000. Entering its third generation in 2023 (model year 2023), the Sequoia underwent a significant redesign, moving to a hybrid powertrain and body-on-frame construction. The Toyota Sequoia III (XK80), specifically the 3.5 V6 i-FORCE MAX (437 Hp) Hybrid 4WD ECT-i variant, represents a substantial shift in Toyota’s approach to the large SUV segment, prioritizing fuel efficiency and performance alongside traditional capability. This generation Sequoia is primarily marketed in North America, filling a niche for buyers needing substantial towing capacity and passenger space.
Engine & Performance
The Sequoia III’s most notable feature is its i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain. This system combines a 3.5-liter V6 twin-turbocharged gasoline engine (V35A-FTS) with an electric motor integrated between the engine and the 10-speed automatic transmission (ECT-i). The combined output reaches 437 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 790 Nm (582.67 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2400 rpm. This delivers a power-to-weight ratio of 159.8 Hp/tonne and a torque-to-weight ratio of 288.8 Nm/tonne. The electric motor contributes 49 horsepower and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque. The powertrain utilizes a 1.87 kWh Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery operating at 288V. The drivetrain is a full-time four-wheel drive system, capable of operating in full electric, hybrid, or traditional combustion modes, with the front wheels engaged as needed via an electronically controlled clutch. The engine features direct injection and multi-port manifold injection, along with a twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler for enhanced performance. A Start & Stop system and particulate filter are included to meet LEV III emission standards.
Design & Features
The Sequoia III is a traditional body-on-frame SUV, offering a robust platform for towing and off-road capability. It’s available in 5-door configuration with seating for seven or eight passengers. The exterior design is modern and angular, reflecting a more aggressive stance than previous generations. Key features include a large grille, prominent headlights, and a spacious interior. The interior focuses on comfort and technology, with available features like a large touchscreen infotainment system, premium audio, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Safety features are a priority, including standard ABS, and a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies. The Sequoia’s cargo capacity ranges from 326 to 631 liters (11.51 to 22.28 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to a maximum of 2461 liters (86.91 cu. ft.) with all rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are substantial, with a length of 5286 mm (208.11 in.), a width of 2022 mm (79.61 in.), and a height ranging from 1885 to 1974 mm (74.21 to 77.72 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Sequoia |
| Generation | Sequoia III (XK80) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 i-FORCE MAX (437 Hp) Hybrid 4WD ECT-i |
| Start of production | June, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | LEV III |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm |
| Gross battery capacity | 1.87 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 288 V |
| Battery technology | Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) |
| Electric motor power | 49 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 250 Nm / 184.39 lb.-ft. |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| Power | 437 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Torque | 790 Nm @ 2400 rpm / 582.67 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | V35A-FTS |
| Engine displacement | 3445 cm3 / 210.23 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 85.5 mm / 3.37 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 100 mm / 3.94 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Dual VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.3 l / 7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt |
| Coolant | 14.5 l / 15.32 US qt | 12.76 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2735-2805 kg / 6029.64 – 6183.97 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 3454 kg / 7614.77 lbs. |
| Max load | 649-719 kg / 1430.8 – 1585.12 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 326-631 l / 11.51 – 22.28 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2461 l / 86.91 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 85 l / 22.45 US gal | 18.7 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4137 kg / 9120.52 lbs. |
| Permitted towbar download | 414 kg / 912.71 lbs. |
| Length | 5286 mm / 208.11 in. |
| Width | 2022 mm / 79.61 in. |
| Height | 1885-1974 mm / 74.21 – 77.72 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3099 mm / 122.01 in. |
| Front track | 1742-1768 mm / 68.58 – 69.61 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1737-1763 mm / 68.39 – 69.41 in. |
| Front overhang | 965 mm / 37.99 in. |
| Rear overhang | 1219 mm / 47.99 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 213-231 mm / 8.39 – 9.09 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.3-13.6 m / 40.35 – 44.62 ft. |
| Approach angle | 15-23° |
| Departure angle | 20° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor permanently drive the rear wheels of the vehicle, capable of running in full electric or mixed mode, and if necessary through the electrically or mechanically controlled clutch, the front wheels are driven. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission ECT-i |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 353.06 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 345.44 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R18; 285/65 R18; 265/60 R20; 265/50 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 20; 22 |
