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Automotive publictions regulary rank and recommend vehicles to provide support to consumers. These rankings tend to reflect the driving experiences of journalists and are often based on research and specs. TrueCar recommends one full-size SUV that is often been overlooked because it’s so darn thristy. After a redesign, this Toyota SUV may be worth serious consideration.

The Toyota Sequoia was one thirsty SUV

A red 2023 Toyota Sequoia full-size SUV and a white 2023 Toyota Sequoia full-size SUV are driving on the road.
The 2023 Toyota Sequoia | Toyota

Toyota is redesigning several of its older truck and SUV nameplates to increase their appeal as the industry evolves. The days of powerhouses with poor fuel economy are over as the industry is becoming more fuel-efficient than ever before. Hybrid and electric vehicle technology has proven that drivers don’t have to pay an arm and a leg at the gas pump to own a vehicle with decent power.

The Toyota Sequoia is experiencing a period of serious growth. The nameplate desperately needed a redesign, like its cousin, the Toyota Tundra. Now, both nameplates are more appealing than ever before.

To fully appreciate how far the Sequoia nameplate has come in just a year, let’s compare the 2022 model year’s gas mileage to the 2023 model year’s fuel economy. The 2022 Toyota Sequia gets a measly 13 miles per gallon in the city and 17 miles per gallon on the highway (15 mpg combined). The new 2023 Toyota Sequoia and its standard hybrid powertrain system achieves 21 miles per gallon in the city and 24 miles per gallon on the highway. That’s an improvement of seven miles per gallon combined.

An extra seven miles per gallon combined may not seem like an astronomical improvement in the eyes of some consumers. Still, the Sequoia gets about 199 more miles of driving range following its redesign. That means that 2023 Sequoia drivers won’t have to stop for gas as frequently and will save some money in the long run.

Why does TrueCar recommend the 2023 Toyota Sequoia?

TrueCar praises the 2023 Toyota Sequoia’s tow rating, seating capacity (eight seats), and off-roading prowess. The publication claims that it is “once again a competitive full-size SUV.” This statement is accurate because the 2023 model year is the best model that Toyota has produced in years based on specs, appearance, and tech. The Japanese automaker has breathed new life into the Sequoia nameplate, just as it has done with the Toyota Tundra.

Are the Toyota Tundra and Toyota Sequoia at the top of their class following their redesigns? No. However, Toyota has given both nameplates a fighting chance again.

Should you get a Toyota Sequoia?

A red 2023 Toyota Sequoia full-size SUV is parked.
The 2023 Toyota Sequoia | Toyota

If you’re looking for a full-size family SUV with power and off-roading capability, the Sequoia is a decent option. The 2023 Toyota Sequoia starts at $58,365. It uses a 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine to make 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque.

Cars.com compliments the full-size SUV’s smooth ride, interior quality, and comfy first and second-row seats. The Sequoia isn’t the best large SUV on the market, but Toyota has certainly stepped its game up in the full-size SUV segment. The Sequoia could compete with the best full-size SUVs in a few years.

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