The sensation was unmistakable. Gliding at 70 mph on Stephan Bridge Road, a rugged dirt track I knew well, felt eerily smooth. Memories flashed back to my younger days, hot-rodding a Crown Victoria down this same path. This time, in the 2024 Toyota Sequoia Platinum, the speed was unintentional – a testament to its surprising composure. It’s easy to overlook that this is a substantial, body-on-frame SUV, whether you’re navigating slick highways or tackling bumpy backroads.
My time with the 2024 Sequoia was full of surprises. Over two weeks and 300 miles, ferrying people and cargo, often with cruise control engaged to respect speed limits, two key impressions solidified: this SUV is genuinely enjoyable to drive, and equipped with the TRD Off-Road package, it’s arguably ready for almost any terrain – save for one notable limitation.
| Quick Specs | 2024 Toyota Sequoia Platinum |
|---|---|
| Engine | Twin-Turbocharged 3.4-Liter V-6 Hybrid |
| Output | 437 Horsepower / 583 Pound-Feet |
| Efficiency | 19 City / 22 Highway / 20 Combined |
| Base Price / As Tested | $63,125 / $82,082 |
| On Sale Date | Now |
Potent Hybrid Powertrain: The Heart of the 2024 Sequoia
The fun factor is undeniably linked to the hybrid powertrain. Every 2024 Sequoia boasts Toyota’s i-Force Max V-6, a twin-turbocharged marvel paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 437 horsepower. The power is palpable, especially as the turbos spool up in the higher rev range. However, the Sequoia truly shines at lower RPMs, where its 583 pound-feet of torque provides effortless acceleration and confident cruising.
The integrated electric motor allows for near-silent operation in scenarios like mall parking lots, offering a stealthy presence unexpected in a large SUV. The absence of a rumbling V-8 changes the acoustic signature significantly.
TRD Off-Road Package: Ready for Adventure?
This particular 2024 Sequoia Platinum was enhanced with the TRD Off-Road package, adding Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires, Bilstein shocks, skid plates, a locking rear differential, distinctive TRD trim, and specialized off-road driving modes. While these features suggest off-road prowess, a significant drawback emerges: the low-hanging front air dam, sitting a mere eight inches above the ground. For a vehicle marketed with off-road capabilities like Crawl Control, this limited front clearance is perplexing. It raises questions about Toyota’s intended usage for the Sequoia TRD Off-Road – are buyers truly expected to venture off the paved path? The vehicle certainly feels like it’s capable, but the air dam suggests otherwise.
This dichotomy between perceived and actual off-road readiness led me to explore dirt roads rather than dedicated trails. Interestingly, this highlighted the Sequoia’s true strengths. Its mission isn’t extreme off-roading; it’s excelling as a comfortable and capable three-row SUV, perfectly suited for family duties, from school runs to weekend adventures. The Platinum trim’s second-row, featuring heated and cooled captain’s chairs, offers exceptional comfort and ample space, minimizing sibling squabbles on long journeys.
Interior and Technology: A Blend of Practicality and Innovation
The front cabin prioritizes user-friendliness, with readily accessible physical switches for frequently used functions and a responsive 14.0-inch touchscreen managing other controls. The design is both visually appealing and intuitively laid out, complemented by a voice control system that demonstrates surprising accuracy. Navigation quirks aside – like the system’s tendency to misjudge speed limits on Michigan backroads and one minor voice command misinterpretation – the infotainment system is remarkably well-integrated, striking a balance between traditional analog controls and modern digital technology.
However, the third-row experience in the 2024 Sequoia isn’t as uniformly impressive. While power-folding and adjustable, adding convenience when not occupied, it doesn’t fold completely flat. This results in a raised cargo floor, potentially hindering the loading of smaller items. With the third row in use, cargo space is limited to just 11.5 cubic feet – enough for basic groceries but significantly less than competitors like the Ford Expedition and GMC Yukon, which offer roughly double the space. The Jeep Wagoneer, for context, boasts a cavernous 27.4 cubic feet.
Third-row comfort is also compromised, particularly for taller adults. Positioned above the solid rear axle and hybrid battery, headroom measures 35.6 inches and legroom 36.6 inches – the tightest in the segment, although not by a large margin. Competitors like the Wagoneer (39 inches of headroom) and Expedition (40.9 inches of legroom) offer more spacious accommodations for third-row passengers. While not unbearable, the Sequoia’s third row is less generous than rivals for larger families needing maximum rear passenger space.
Fuel Economy and Value: Hybrid Efficiency Comes at a Price
Despite these third-row and cargo limitations, the 2024 Sequoia distinguishes itself with its standard hybrid powertrain – a domain where Toyota excels. EPA fuel economy ratings are 19 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined. However, in real-world driving, particularly on 55-mph roads, I consistently observed between 25 and 30 mpg. Cruising at lower speeds around town proved even more efficient than highway driving, with the engine frequently shutting off to maximize fuel savings. My overall average over 300 miles was an impressive 24.1 mpg.
For a 6,000-pound, 437-horsepower SUV, this fuel economy is remarkable. However, this efficiency comes at a cost. The as-tested price of this Sequoia Platinum, equipped with the TRD Off-Road package, heads-up display, and integrated dashcam, reached $82,082. While comparable to a well-optioned Chevy Tahoe, it’s slightly less expensive than similarly equipped GMC Yukon, Ford Expedition, and Jeep Wagoneer models.
For buyers prioritizing value, the base Sequoia SR5 offers the same hybrid powertrain and three-row seating, and can still be configured with the TRD Off-Road package, starting around $15,000 less.
Final Verdict: A Compelling Choice in a Competitive Segment
Despite my general preference against large SUVs, the 2024 Toyota Sequoia proved surprisingly enjoyable. It fulfills its primary role as a comfortable and capable family vehicle effectively, third-row compromises notwithstanding. In a crowded SUV market, the Sequoia’s bold styling and available TRD Off-Road package help it stand out.
There’s an underlying sense of untapped potential, a hint of greater capability beyond its perceived “soft-roader” image, partly contradicted by that low front air dam. However, should a zombie apocalypse (or any less dramatic emergency) arise, the Sequoia would be a dependable choice. Just buckle up, activate the ventilated seats, and press the accelerator – the air dam might not survive, but the rest of the 2024 Sequoia likely will.
Competitors to Consider
- Ford Expedition
- GMC Yukon
- Jeep Wagoneer
- Chevrolet Tahoe
More Toyota Reviews:
- 2024 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid First Drive Review: It’s Really Good
- 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander First Drive Review: Going Big On The Big Island
2024 Toyota Sequoia Platinum Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | Twin-Turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 Hybrid |
| Motor | Permanent Magnet Synchronous |
| Battery | 1.87 Kilowatt-Hour Nickel-Metal Hydride |
| Output | 437 Horsepower / 583 Pound-Feet |
| Transmission | 10-Speed Automatic |
| Drive Type | Four-Wheel Drive |
| Weight | 6,150 Pounds |
| Efficiency | 19 City / 22 Highway / 20 Combined |
| Seating Capacity | 7 |
| Towing | 9,010 Pounds |
| Cargo Volume | 11.5-22.3 / 86.9 Cubic Feet |
| Base Price | $63,125 |
| As-Tested Price | $82,082 |
| On Sale | Now |
