Skip to main content

The Toyota 4Runner and Sequoia are both iconic SUVs with proven dependability. But how is the Toyota Sequoia different from the 4Runner? Which option is the better SUV for your family? Let’s dive in and see how the Toyota 4Runner and Sequoia are different. 

Toyota 4Runner VS. Toyota Sequoia 

2021-Toyota-4Runner-Trail-Edition parked in gravel
2021-Toyota-4Runner-Trail-Edition

If you’ve made it this far, you may be wondering why the Toyota 4Runner and Sequoia are still around. They’re certainly older than the Toyota RAV4, the popular two-row SUV. Plus, the Toyota Highlander has three rows of seats too. 

However, the Toyota Sequoia and 4Runner are more rugged options that are truck-like. They provide more off-roading capabilities and power than their younger brother and sister SUVs. But they also have higher price tags. 

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia starts with a hefty price of around $59,865k, and the 2023 Toyota 4Runner starts at around $40k. The Sequoia costs more partly because it’s much larger. While the Toyota 4Runner is available with a 3rd row, it’s much smaller than the 3rd row found in the Sequoia. 

You’ll find up to 89.7 cubic feet of cargo space in the Toyota 4Runner. However, the Toyota Sequoia provides up to 120.1 cubic feet of cargo space. The 4Runner has plenty of space for adults in the second row, but smaller children should climb in the 3rd row. Meanwhile, the Sequoia comes with eight seats that are incredibly spacious for adults. 

Toyota 4Runner and Sequoia tech 

The Toyota Sequoia comes with a few more creature comforts than the 4Runner. It has tri-zone climate control to keep your entire family comfortable. Also, the smart key comes standard with every Sequoia trim. 

With the Sequoia, you get modern tech, like a standard 360-degree camera system, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, heated seats, keyless entry/start, a power moonroof, parking sensors, and a digital cluster display.

The Toyota 4Runner offers a dual-zone climate control system, which is still great, and you can pay to upgrade to the smart key feature. The 4runner has wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and an available 360-degree camera system.  

Toyota Sequoia and 4Runner engine power 

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia driving down the road
2023 Toyota Sequoia | Toyota

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner has a robust 4.0-liter V6 engine that cranks out 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. It can tow up to 5,000 lb, which is excellent for boats and campers. Also, it’s an off-roading beast. 

It has 9.6” of ground clearance along with optional four-wheel drive and an electronically locking rear differential. Off-roading drive modes include a Rock Crawling feature to go over any obstacle in your way. 

The Toyota Sequoia has a bit more power with a 3.6-liter V6 hybrid powertrain with 437 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque. It can tow up to 7,400 lb. There are fox shocks, a locking Torsen center differential, and multiple four-wheel-drive driving modes for off-roading. 

Both of these SUVs are great for off-roading, and the Toyota 4Runner is perfectly fine for families. However, if you have a larger family or need to tow more than 5,000 lb, go with the much larger Toyota Sequoia. The 4Runner is due for an update soon, so stay tuned. It could flip the table.