Everything about Texas is large, no exceptions, the 2024 Toyota Sequoia platinum hybrid assembled in San Antonio, Texas is well named after the gigantic trees that were threatened by California fires last summer.
This is a monster SUV loaded with rugged offroad features and a TRD Off-Road package that includes 20” TRD allow wheels with all-terrain tires, off-road suspension, Bilstein shocks, skid plates, front axial drive shafts, and a controlled locking differential. In addition, multi-terrain monitor, and crawl control, and tow and haul drive modes along with driving modes of normal, sport and eco.
This “Lunar Rock” painted monster is ready to head to the mountains and offroad trails. The military color gray paint and the 20”/dark-painted alloy wheels add to the Sequoia tough mystic.
Driving this goliath is a I-Force MAX twin-turbo V6 with hybrid boost of a DOCH 24v with dual VVT and electric generator achieving a total of 437/ horsepower. Fuel economy is rated at 20 mpg overall and my experience was 18.3 mpg.
This is a challenging vehicle, and massive in size and performance. The twin-turbo engines emit a growl when pushed to instant power and acceleration. The ten-speed sequential shift allows for accent and decent with gear choices, if desired, rather than riding the brakes.
The vehicle is equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 series, along with windshield road sign assist that is appreciated for all speed zones and school alert warnings.
Tall in stature, the fixed running board is stationary and makes for a challenging climb into the spacious cabin. The huge “sequential” rear view mirrors provide a vast rear image and split screen. I found the mirrors almost too large, blocking a clear view of traffic and pedestrians.
This is a special vehicle designed for the great outdoors and towing boats, trailers, et al. The TRD package for outdoor usage is an additional $2,310 to the suggested manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $80,488.
A special vehicle for special drivers and the leather captain chairs are first class.