Do Toyota Sequoias get good gas mileage?
Yes. The Sequoia’s hybrid powertrain offers better fuel economy than the older V8-era models, with combined mpg typically in the low 20s depending on drivetrain and usage.
Toyota’s full‑size Sequoia has undergone a major shift in powertrains in recent years, moving from a traditional V8 to a hybrid setup designed to improve efficiency while preserving capability. This article weighs official estimates, real‑world performance, and factors that influence fuel economy for potential buyers and current owners.
EPA estimates by drivetrain
EPA figures provide a baseline for what you can expect in typical conditions. Here are the common ranges reported for the modern Sequoia equipped with the i‑Force MAX hybrid system:
- 2WD: approximately 21 mpg city / 24 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined
- 4WD: approximately 19 mpg city / 23 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined
These estimates reflect the hybrid powertrain paired with Toyota’s eight‑speed automatic transmission and are intended as a baseline. Real‑world mileage can vary based on driving style, climate, load, and equipment such as roof racks or towing gear.
Note on older models
Earlier Sequoias depended on a 5.7-liter V8 and delivered considerably lower fuel economy, typically in the mid‑teens overall. The move to a hybrid powertrain represents a meaningful efficiency improvement for highway driving and daily commuting.
Real-world performance and influencing factors
Actual mpg depends on driving conditions and usage. The following factors commonly affect Sequoia fuel economy:
- Towing and payload: Heavier loads significantly reduce mpg, often more noticeably in the city than on the highway.
- Terrain and speed: Steady highway speeds and gentle acceleration yield better mpg than stop‑and‑go city driving or steep hills.
- Climate control: Heating or cooling demands can nudge mpg downward, especially in extreme temperatures.
- Drive mode and equipment: Off‑road modes, four‑wheel drive, and aero additions increase drag and reduce efficiency.
In everyday driving, the hybrid Sequoia tends to excel on highway commutes and mixed usage, while heavy towing or off‑road use can pull the mileage toward the lower end of the range.
Bottom line for buyers
For buyers who value modern technology and improved highway efficiency in a full‑size SUV, the Sequoia’s hybrid variant offers a meaningful upgrade over older V8 models. If maximum fuel economy is the top priority, there are smaller, lighter options or non‑hybrid SUVs with higher efficiency. For those who need space, power, and towing capability, the Sequoia offers a solid balance between capability and efficiency.
Summary
The Toyota Sequoia’s shift to a hybrid i‑Force MAX powertrain yields notably better fuel economy than its legacy V8 counterpart, with 2WD models around 22 mpg combined and 4WD models around 21 mpg combined, according to EPA estimates. Real‑world mileage varies with load, towing, terrain, and climate, but the hybrid Sequoia generally delivers commendable efficiency for a full‑size SUV and remains competitive within its segment.
