Does the Toyota Sequoia have good gas mileage?
Overall, the Sequoia does not deliver standout fuel economy for a full-size SUV, but its i-Force MAX hybrid system helps push efficiency into the low-to-mid 20s mpg in typical use. Expect about 22 mpg combined on average, with variations by drivetrain and load.
This article examines official fuel-economy figures, real-world driving behavior, how the Sequoia compares with rivals, and practical tips to maximize efficiency. We’ll unpack what the numbers mean for daily driving, towing, and long highway trips.
Fuel economy at a glance
The Sequoia’s numbers come from official EPA ratings and vary by configuration. All current Sequoias use Toyota’s i-Force MAX hybrid setup, and there isn’t a non-hybrid version offered in the modern model line. Below are representative EPA estimates for common configurations.
- 2WD Sequoia with i-Force MAX: approximately 21 mpg city / 24 mpg highway; combined around 22–23 mpg.
- 4WD Sequoia with i-Force MAX: approximately 19 mpg city / 23 mpg highway; combined around 21–22 mpg.
These figures reflect the hybrid’s efficiency advantages on the highway and the trade-offs in city driving when the internal-combustion engine works harder to move the weight and operate the system. Real-world mileage will vary based on load, terrain, climate control usage, and driving style.
Real-world performance and comparisons
In everyday use, the Sequoia’s fuel economy tends to align with other large, V8-era or V6-era SUVs that have shifted to modern turbo-hybrid powertrains. While it won’t match compact crossovers or midsize hybrids, the Sequoia’s hybrid setup tends to yield better highway efficiency than many full-size rivals that rely solely on gasoline engines.
What affects mpg in the Sequoia
Several factors influence actual mileage beyond the EPA numbers: payload and towing weight, roof rack or trailer accessories, tire size and pressure, and driving style—especially rapid acceleration or frequent short trips that prevent the hybrid system from optimizing efficiency. Regular maintenance and proper tire inflation can help narrow the gap between EPA estimates and real-world results.
Comparisons with rivals
The Sequoia sits in a category with other large, three-row SUVs that prioritize towing capability and passenger space rather than pure fuel economy. In this space, efficiency often depends on whether a hybrid system is used. Cars like the Ford Expedition, Chevrolet Tahoe, Nissan Armada, and Lexus LX typically offer strong highway mileage for their size, but many rely on traditional gasoline powertrains. The Sequoia’s hybrid approach gives it a potential advantage on highway fuel economy, while city mileage may lag behind small- or mid-size hybrids.
Maximizing fuel economy
Even with a hybrid, practical steps can squeeze more miles from each gallon. Below are strategies commonly recommended by Toyota and fuel-economy experts.
- Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure; under-inflation lowers efficiency.
- Remove unnecessary weight and cargo; reduce drag by minimizing roof racks or spoilers when not needed.
- Drive smoothly: gradual acceleration, steady cruising speed, and gentle braking help the hybrid system optimize MPG.
- Use Eco or similar drive modes if available to optimize throttle response and climate control usage.
- Plan trips to avoid frequent short hops; longer highway segments enable the hybrid system to operate more efficiently.
Applying these practices can yield incremental gains, especially on daily commutes or long highway journeys where the hybrid system operates most efficiently.
Bottom line
The Toyota Sequoia’s gas mileage is not exceptional for a large SUV, but its i-Force MAX hybrid brings an efficiency edge that helps it compete more favorably with similarly sized models. If fuel economy is a top priority, consider driving habits, configurations (2WD vs 4WD), and how you plan to use the vehicle—towing, hauling, or frequent city driving all influence real-world results.
Summary
In short, the Sequoia sacrifices some efficiency relative to smaller hybrids but compensates with a capable hybrid powertrain and strong highway efficiency for its class. Official EPA estimates place 2WD around the low 20s mpg combined and 4WD slightly lower, with real-world results varying by driving conditions. For buyers weighing space and capability against fuel use, the Sequoia offers a reasonable balance with room to optimize through mindful driving and load management.
