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When we had the 2021 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro for review, Texas historically froze over and saw record amounts of snowfall. The giant Sequoia isn’t perfect. But it will definitely make you feel invincible––even in a snowstorm.

The Toyota Sequoia is a giant family-size SUV. The TRD Pro model takes it up a notch with TRD off-road-tuned components, upgraded all-terrain tires, and a rugged appearance. For some families, it paints just the right picture and allows for insane capability considering its massive size.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro is a formidable snow crushing beast

This large Toyota SUV is certainly not for everyone. It’s difficult to climb into, the strong V8 powertrain guzzles gas, and it’s larger than the needs of most families call for. That said, it’s a formidable snow crushing beast.

This thing barreled through the snow Texas streets without a problem. We rarely lost traction and when we did, the Sequoia was quick to right itself. There was not one moment I didn’t feel safe in this truck on those frozen roads. While the 2021 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro is heavy and large, it still handles well when the going gets rough.

Drive modes in this large Toyota SUV

Toyota calls the drive modes in the 2021 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro “Multi-Mode 4WD.” It took me a bit of reading and tinkering to figure out the system, but it certainly makes things easy for those who are new to off-road driving. Similarly, Texas drivers that have never driven in true winter weather conditions will find the Sequoia’s drive modes helpful for that surprise snowstorm we see every decade or so.

a white 2021 Sequoia driving on a dirt road
2021 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro | Toyota

On the dial, the modes are labelled 2WD, 4HI, and 4LO. That seems pretty straightforward, right? It’s a bit more complicated in this scenario, but not much.

The TRD Pro Sequoia is actually in 4WD Auto until you actually push the button to lock the limited-slip center differentials. Once the differential is locked, then you are off to the off-road races in 4HI. Overall, however, the modes are pretty simple. Plus, they are all aptly capable of performing their intended duties.

Who should buy the 2021 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro?

The 2021 TRD Pro Sequoia is a large Toyota SUV with a pretty designated purpose. It’s meant to live a more rugged life off the beaten path. It’s also meant to look pretty cool while doing it. Dated interior and painful fuel economy aside, this thing looks good. It’s a unit with epic capability and epic style to match.

the 2021 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro interior view of the front seats with trd pro badging
2021 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro | Toyota

That said, the TRD Pro is meant for the drivers that will actually drive it off the pavement. When you pay a whopping $65 grand for your SUV like this it’s for a reason. State-of-the-art tech and an ultra-luxurious cabin are not part of the reason behind this truck’s price. This is a large Toyota SUV that is actually ready for action––and that’s what you’re paying for. Its capability made me feel invincible even in a snowstorm.

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