If we were to base our car-buying decisions solely on emotion, we’d likely find ourselves in a world of financial trouble. Then along comes the Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro, disrupting that narrative and our moral responsibilities. However, I need to put aside my fleeting rush of excitement and think with clear-headed pragmatism, considering both our wallets and practical needs rather than succumbing to fleeting whims like a giddy cheerleader at a football game. 

Elmer Fudd Would Approve 

The Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro, a vehicle that seems straight out of a cartoon. There’s no denying that Toyota has struck gold with this current iteration of the Sequoia. It boasts the spaciousness of a school bus, offering easy access to its third-row seating, a comfortable driving experience, and impressive performance. However, the jaw-dropping starting price of $80,960 for the TRD Pro variant leaves us feeling like we just had an anvil dropped on our foot. 

To put this price into perspective, the Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 Off-Road starts at $68,295, a substantial $13,000 less than the Sequoia TRD Pro. Even the all-new Lexus GX 550 Overtrail starts at $69,250. Yet, despite the sticker shock, the Sequoia boldly flaunts its attention-grabbing Terra orange paint and “technical camo” forged carbon fenders. 

PROS: Impressive performance, spacious & comfortable cabin, and off-road capabilities

For those willing to indulge, the Sequoia TRD Pro offers more than just flashy aesthetics. It comes equipped with a suite of TRD off-road enhancements, including upgraded Fox shocks with a 3.5-inch suspension lift, a locking rear differential, front skid plates, and robust forged wheels wrapped in chunky all-terrain tires. So, while the price may initially seem steep, it’s clear that Toyota has designed the Sequoia TRD Pro for those who are ready to tackle the trails with gusto, unconcerned with the financial aftermath. 

All The Right Grunts 

Some may argue that the departure of the outgoing V-8, the introduction of the twin-turbo V-6 hybrid is nothing short of impressive. Generating 437-horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque is a force to be reckoned with. The 3.4-liter engine works in tandem with fantastically tuned 10-speed automatic transmission and an electric motor, adding an extra 48-horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Unlike the Sequoia Capstone we tested late 2022, the TRD Pro is much more theatrical making grunts and growls through the pipped exhaust with the occasional whistle of the turbochargers. Despite tipping the scales over 7,500lbs, it makes quick work of getting to 60-mph in just over 6.0-seconds from a dead stop. Unfortunately, it drains it fuel tank just as quick; after driving 700-miles our average came in at 18.9-mpgs combined, which is still an improvement. The TRD Pro is rated 19-city, 22-highway, 20-combined. However, worst was its range – we were lucky to squeeze 300-miles from a single tank due to its smaller than expected 22.5-gallon tank.  

Inside the Sequoia TRD Pro, luxury takes a backseat for a more rugged aesthetic. Despite being the off-road warrior, even at this price, it may leave you wanting more than ubiquitous hard plastics and faux leather SofTex seats. At least they are decked out in a rather intriguing technical camo pattern that matches the exterior wheel arches. On the technical front, the 14-inch infotainment touch screen is impressive with high-definition graphics with a sharp 360-degree surround view camera display and an impressive JBL- 14-speaking sound system to boot. Even the Toyota Safety Sense System has been far improved from its previous generation and makes great deal of relieving stress with its Adaptative Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assist management system.  

When it comes down to the nitty gritty, the TRD Pro faces some significant challenges beyond its price point. It doesn’t offer a heads-up display or a panoramic sunroof option, there’s no USB-C ports for front seat occupants and the third-row seat doesn’t fold flat into the floor, instead, we get an awkward adjustable shelf to help level out the floor. 

CONS: Small fuel tank, small trunk with third-row seats up, and its price

Setting aside its price and premium shortcomings, the Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro stands out as a superb off-road ready SUV. Much like the Capstone, it exudes dominance on the road while offering supreme comfort. However, when considering value for money, the TRD Pro faces a hard reality check… especially when compared to models within its own family like the Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus GX550.