Which Toyota Sequoia is best for towing?

The best Toyota Sequoia for towing is the i-Force MAX hybrid-powered model equipped with the Tow Package, which can tow up to 9,000 pounds when properly equipped. This combination delivers strong low-end torque, efficient performance, and the stability tech necessary for safe towing.

To understand why this setup stands out, it helps to explore how the Sequoia’s powertrain works, what determines towing capability, and which trims best fit towing needs. Toyota’s current Sequoia lineup is built around a single, robust hybrid powertrain designed to deliver both performance and reliability for heavy loads. The discussion below covers the key factors that influence what you can tow and how to pick the right configuration.

Powertrain and performance

At the heart of the Sequoia’s towing capability is the i-Force MAX hybrid system, a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 paired with an electric motor that together produce substantial low-end torque and strong, steady power delivery. This setup is designed to provide confident acceleration when pulling a trailer and to maintain stable engine temperatures under load.

Before the list: Several powertrain and chassis characteristics influence towing, including torque delivery, transmission tuning, cooling, and the availability of towing aids. Here are the main features that support towing performance.

• Engine and torque: i-Force MAX hybrid with a combined output that emphasizes torque at low speeds, helping with trailer launch and hill climbs.


• Transmission: a multi‑speed automatic transmission tuned for steady, controlled shifts under load.


• Towing aids: integrated trailer sway control, trailer brake controller options, and Tow/Haul tuning to optimize performance when towing.


• Cooling and reliability: enhanced cooling for the engine, transmission, and intercooler systems to maintain performance during sustained towing.

In practice, the hybrid powertrain with the Tow Package provides the most balanced combination of capability and drivability for towing in the Sequoia lineup. It is the configuration most buyers rely on when aiming to tow near the maximum rating.

Tow ratings, equipment, and configuration

Before the list: The official towing capacity depends on the drivetrain and equipment. The top-capacity figure of about 9,000 pounds is achieved with the i-Force MAX hybrid powertrain paired with the factory Tow Package and appropriate hitching hardware. Always verify the exact rating for your vehicle’s configuration.

• Maximum towing capacity: Up to about 9,000 pounds with the i-Force MAX and Tow Package (stock configuration, properly equipped).


• Tow Package components: heavy-duty radiator and engine/oil coolers, transmission cooler, reinforced towing hardware, and a wiring harness setup suitable for trailer connections.


• Electrical and braking aids: available or standard trailer brake controller on higher trims or with the Tow Package, plus wiring for trailer lights.


• Hitch and receiver: typically a 2-inch hitch receiver is used, with the appropriate electrical connectors (often 7-pin and/or 4-pin) for trailer braking and lights.


• Drivetrain considerations: towing capability is stated for both 2WD and 4WD configurations when equipped with the Tow Package; verify the exact rating for your specific drivetrain choice.

Overall, the strongest towing capability is linked to the i-Force MAX powertrain plus the Tow Package. Without these elements, the Sequoia’s towing rating will be lower, and you should follow the official specifications for your exact configuration.

Which Sequoia trims are best for towing

Before the list: While the rating is driven by the powertrain and Tow Package, some trims make it easier to access the full towing capability by including or enabling the necessary equipment and features, often at a higher trim level or as an option.

• Best overall for maximum towing: Any Sequoia equipped with the i-Force MAX hybrid and the factory Tow Package. This pairing delivers the full 9,000-pound capability when properly equipped.


• Best value for towing: A mid-range trim (such as SR5 or Limited) that can be equipped with the Tow Package. This approach balances price with the necessary towing gear.


• Top-tier off-road while towing: TRD Pro can also be configured with the Tow Package, offering rugged suspension and off-road capability alongside the same towing limit when properly equipped.

Conclusion: The key to achieving the best towing results with a Sequoia is selecting the i-Force MAX powertrain and adding the Tow Package, which unlocks the official 9,000-pound rating across the lineup. Trim level matters for features and price, but the tow ceiling is set by the powertrain and equipment rather than a single trim name.

Practical tips for towing with a Sequoia

Equipment and best practices

To tow safely and effectively, consider these practical steps and equipment choices. They complement the Sequoia’s built-in capabilities and help you stay within safe operating limits.

• Use a weight-distributing hitch and ensure the gross trailer weight does not exceed rating for your vehicle configuration.


• Install and use the factory or aftermarket trailer brake controller if your trailer requires it or if you tow near the limit.


• Regularly check trailer tongue weight, tires, and braking performance before long trips or heavy loads.


• Engage Tow/Haul mode when towing to optimize shifts and engine braking for smoother handling.

Bottom line: If you need to tow up to 9,000 pounds regularly, the best-performing Sequoia choice is the i-Force MAX with the Tow Package. For lighter towing or a lower price point, you can still tow effectively by choosing a trim that can be equipped with the Tow Package and ensuring proper hitching and braking gear.

Summary

For towing the most with a Toyota Sequoia, choose the i-Force MAX hybrid powertrain and add the Tow Package. This setup enables up to 9,000 pounds of trailer-towing capacity when properly equipped, delivering strong torque, reliable cooling, and towing aids that improve stability. Trim level affects features and price, but the key to maximum capability lies in the hybrid powertrain plus the Tow Package and appropriate towing hardware. Always verify exact ratings for your specific vehicle configuration and follow the owner’s manual for safe towing practices.

What year of Toyota Sequoia to stay away from?

On the other side, the worst years to avoid for Toyota Sequoia are 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, and 2008. This was because of the rusting condition, brakes, and transmission problems in it. These are commonly listed as the Toyota Sequoia years to avoid.

Which Toyota Sequoia has the best towing capacity?

2023 Toyota Sequoia Towing Capacity by Trim

• Sequoia SR5 – 9,520 pounds.
• Sequoia Limited – 9,300 pounds.
• Sequoia Platinum – 9,310 pounds.
• Sequoia TRD Pro – 9,020 pounds.
• Sequoia Capstone – 9,280 pounds.

Can a Sequoia tow 10,000 lbs?

The 2025 Toyota Sequoia comes slightly below a 10,000-pound tow rating,1 with the ability to haul up to 9,520 pounds when properly equipped.

What Toyota has the best towing?

The best Toyota for towing is the Tundra, a full-size truck with a maximum capacity of up to 12,000 pounds. For heavy-duty SUV towing, the Sequoia is the top choice, capable of towing up to 9,520 pounds. The mid-size Tacoma is a great option for lighter towing, with a capacity of up to 6,500 pounds.
 
This video shows the 2024 Toyota Tundra towing a boat: 58sThe Fast Lane TruckYouTube · Jul 15, 2025
Trucks

• Toyota Tundra: The best option for maximum towing capacity, with some models reaching up to 12,000 pounds. 
• Toyota Tacoma: A capable mid-size truck with a towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds, suitable for smaller trailers and boats. 

This video shows the 2024 Toyota Tacoma towing a boat: 1mBros FOURR SpeedYouTube · Nov 12, 2024
SUVs

• Toyota Sequoia: A large SUV that can tow up to 9,520 pounds, making it suitable for large trailers and RVs. 
• Toyota 4Runner: Can tow up to 6,000 pounds, depending on the trim, and is a strong off-road towing option. 
• Toyota Highlander: A family-friendly SUV that can tow up to 5,000 pounds. 
• Toyota Land Cruiser: Features a hybrid powertrain and can rival mid-size trucks in towing capacity. 
• Toyota RAV4: Has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds on certain trims.