Used Toyota Sequoia Buying Guide

• The Sequoia replaced the V8 with a twin-turbo hybrid for its third gen.
• Second-gen models are highly sought after thanks to their dependable 5.7-liter V8 and reputation for durability.
• Buyers shopping older Sequoias should inspect for rust, brake wear, and rear hatch window issues before making a purchase.

Like its predecessor, the third-gen Sequoia shares its underpinnings with the Toyota Tundra, but it swaps the previous independent rear suspension for a rear axle similar to the pickup’s.

Toyota retired the 5.7-liter V8 in favor of the i-Force MAX hybrid. The twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 and electric motor combine to produce 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft, making this the most powerful Sequoia ever built. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it can tow up to 9,520 pounds while also improving fuel economy to an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.

Toyota also expanded the lineup at this time. The luxurious Capstone model features premium leather upholstery, genuine walnut trim, heated and ventilated first- and second-row seats, and a panoramic moonroof. Adventure seekers, meanwhile, can opt for the TRD Pro with upgraded suspension, skid plates, Crawl Control, forged wheels, and standard four-wheel drive.

The Nightshade Package followed, as did the 1794 Edition featuring exclusive styling and massaging front seats. And, just this model year, Toyota added power-folding third-row seats and expanded several interior trim choices across the board.

Because this generation is still relatively new (and we’re still in it), used inventory is limited. Before you bite on an earlier model, make sure that any applicable recalls on early models have been corrected before purchasing.

The second-generation Sequoia lasted 14 years, and over that time, Toyota focused on refinement rather than reinvention. Early models offered either a 4.7-liter or 5.7-liter V8, but beginning in 2013, every Sequoia featured a 5.7-liter V8.

In 2018, Toyota updated styling and added LED lighting and Safety Sense driver-assistance technology. The TRD Sport also joined the lineup that year, while the more capable TRD Pro debuted for 2020 with Fox shocks, skid plates, forged wheels, and additional off-road equipment.

Reviews from this era were largely positive, but a few weak points showed up over time, and you may still have an issue, should you buy used. Water pumps on the 5.7-liter engine wear out faster than they should. That rear power hatch window? Rust often creeps in around the glass. Brakes take a beating too; all that curb weight accelerates pad and rotor wear compared to lighter trucks. One more thing worth checking: if you’re in a northern climate, get underneath and look at the frame. Road salt corrosion is a genuine concern on these.

While 2018-2022 models command the highest prices, many shoppers find the 2013-2015 models offer the best balance of affordability, capability, and long-term reliability.