What liter engine is in a Toyota Sequoia?

The engine displacement varies by model year. Today’s Sequoia uses a 3.5-liter hybrid V6, while earlier generations used larger V8s: a 4.7-liter in the first generation and a 5.7-liter in the second generation.

Engine options across Sequoia generations

Below is a generation-by-generation breakdown of the engine displacements you’ll find in Toyota Sequoias.

First generation (2001–2007)

• 4.7-liter V8 (2UZ-FE)

In the original Sequoia, Toyota relied on a 4.7-liter V8 to deliver the SUV’s power and towing capability.

Second generation (2008–2022)

• 5.7-liter V8 (3UR-FE)

During the mid-2000s to early 2020s run, the Sequoia shifted to a larger 5.7-liter V8 to improve performance and payload capacity.

Current generation (2023–present)

• 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid (i-Force MAX)

The latest Sequoia uses a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 paired with an electric motor as part of Toyota’s i-Force MAX hybrid system, marking a return to a smaller displacement with hybrid efficiency.

Summary

Overall, the Sequoia’s engine displacement has evolved from a 4.7-liter V8 in the early model years to a 5.7-liter V8 in the larger second generation, and now to a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid in the current generation. Each shift reflects Toyota’s balancing of power, efficiency, and modern hybrid technology.

What size V8 engine is in the Toyota Sequoia?

5.7L V8
Uncover the impressive offerings of the 2024 Toyota Sequoia, a versatile full-sized SUV boasting three rows of seating. Revel in the remarkable power of the 5.7L V8 engine, delivering an impressive 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque.

When did Sequoia go to V6?

2023
2023 - Present (3rd Generation)
The only powertrain announced for 2023 was a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 gas engine and an electric motor with a total system output of 437 horsepower — 56 more horsepower than the old 5.7-liter V8.

Is the Toyota Sequoia a V6 or V8?

The Toyota Sequoia has only offered a V6 hybrid engine since the 2023 model year, with no V8 options available in recent generations. This V6 hybrid system is a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter engine paired with an electric motor, producing 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. 
V6 hybrid engine (2023-present)

• Power: 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque 
• Efficiency: While not a V8, the hybrid system offers a more seamless and powerful experience, especially at low speeds, with an estimated 19 mpg city / 22 mpg highway for the 2WD model. 
• Performance: It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6 seconds and handles towing well. 
• Technology: The electric motor provides immediate torque, reducing lag and requiring fewer downshifts. 

V8 engine (pre-2023) 

• Power: The previous generation's V8 was powerful, but the new V6 hybrid delivers more horsepower. 
• Performance: The V8 was known for its smooth, reliable performance. 
• Efficiency: The V8's fuel economy was not significantly better than the new hybrid's fuel economy. 

You can watch this video to learn about the 2025 Toyota Sequoia's performance and features: 1mBrian MakseYouTube · Aug 23, 2025
Which one should you choose?

• If you are looking at models from 2023 or newer, your only option is the V6 hybrid. 
• If you prefer the older V8, you will need to look for a model from 2022 or older. 

What are the bad years to avoid Toyota Sequoia?

The Toyota Sequoia years to avoid are primarily the first generation models from 2001 to 2008 due to issues like frame rust, and potential problems with the engine, brakes, and steering. Within the second generation, 2008-2010 models also have specific concerns, such as secondary air injection system issues. 
First generation (2001-2007)

• 2001-2008: These years are frequently cited for being problematic due to a range of defects, including frame rust, steering issues, and engine and brake problems. 
• 2001-2007: Often mentioned for a higher risk of frame rust, especially if you live in an area that uses road salt. 
• 2002: This year stands out as having a high volume of severe complaints, notes CarBuzz. 
• 2003: Multiple recalls and issues with the Vehicle Stability Control system. 
• 2004: Subject to the Takata airbag recall. 
• 2006: Recalled 10 times by the NHTSA. 

You can watch this video to learn about the common problems of the Toyota Sequoia: 55sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Jan 3, 2024
Second generation (2008-2017)

• 2008-2010: These models can have issues with the secondary air injection system, which can be expensive to fix. Early models also had a recall for accelerator pedal friction. 
• 2009: A recall for oil leaks that could lead to a sudden loss of power steering assistance. 
• 2017: Cited as a year to avoid by some sources.