Although they're made by the same company, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia and the 2023 Toyota 4Runner are two SUVs that cater to different needs. While the Sequoia benefits from a redesign and a hybrid powertrain, the 4Runner continues to impress with its timeless appeal and off-road capabilities.
2023 Toyota 4Runner vs 2023 Toyota Sequoia: Toyota SUV Comparison
Look and Feel
CarGurus experts rate the 2023 Toyota Sequoia at 7 out of 10 for its bold new styling, while the 2023 Toyota 4Runner scores a rare perfect 10 for its timeless and rugged design.
The full-size Sequoia takes styling cues from the Toyota Tundra pickup truck, making for a distinctive appearance. Inside, the Sequoia provides an industrial-themed interior, with plush leather, wood, and metallic finishes in the upscale Capstone trim. The spacious cabin features a massive 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system. The Sequoia lineup includes various trims, with prices starting at $59,895 and reaching $81,365 for a fully loaded Capstone.
The midsize 4Runner, meanwhile, exudes a classic SUV vibe and boasts a purposeful interior. While there's a fair amount of plastic in the cabin, it feels solid and of good quality. The 4Runner lineup includes multiple trims, ranging from $39,555 to $54,020, plus a $1,335 destination charge. The 40th Anniversary Special Edition adds a touch of nostalgia with retro styling cues.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia outshines the 4Runner, earning an 8 out of 10 rating compared to the 4Runner's 5.
The Sequoia is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a hybrid powertrain. This combination generates an impressive 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque, allowing the Sequoia to tow up to 9,520 pounds. Notably, it's more fuel-efficient than its predecessor was, with an EPA rating of 20 mpg with four-wheel drive (4WD).
The 4Runner relies on a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. While capable of towing 5,000 pounds, it falls behind the Sequoia in terms of power and efficiency, achieving an EPA rating of just 17 mpg in combined driving, due in part to its aerodynamics.
Form and Function
The 2023 4Runner handily beats the 2023 Sequoia when it comes to interior space and practicality, scoring a high 9 points compared to the Sequoia's abysmal 2.
The 2023 Sequoia lost points mainly due to its reduced interior space. The hybrid powertrain necessitated sacrifices in cabin room, making the third-row seat cramped and cargo space limited. With the third row in place, the Sequoia offers just 11.5 cubic feet of cargo space. Fold those seats down, and you get 49 cubic feet. While still sizable, that's notably less than its rivals offer, and it's even less than what we see in a midsize Toyota Highlander Hybrid.
The 2023 4Runner, however, excels in form and function. It offers generous space, comfortable seating, and practical features. The ability to lower the rear window for flow-through ventilation adds to its appeal. With five-passenger seating, it provides 46.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 89.7 cubic feet when you fold the rear seats. This makes it a versatile choice for those needing ample storage.
Technology
Both the 2023 Toyota Sequoia and the 2023 Toyota 4Runner scored 7 points out of 10 for their technology offerings.
The 2023 Toyota Sequoia comes equipped with the new Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system. While the base SR5 trim offers an 8-inch touchscreen, other versions, including the SR5 Premium Package and up, feature an impressive 14-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system is user-friendly and includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, glare can be an issue, especially in certain lighting conditions.
One feature that separates the Sequoia from its in-class competition is the ability to set up user accounts for different drivers, making it convenient for households with multiple drivers. The Intelligent Assistant, triggered by a simple "Hey Toyota" wake word, assists with directions, although it may not always provide perfectly filtered results. Additionally, a 10-inch head-up display is available in the Capstone trim, providing a wealth of information right on the windshield. The Sequoia also includes a surround-view camera system, enhancing safety during parking and maneuvering.
The 2023 Toyota 4Runner takes a more traditional approach to technology. Its infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen complemented by real knobs and buttons, making it easy to use, especially when wearing gloves in cold weather.
While its display may be smaller and its graphics not as modern as those of some competitors in its class, the 4Runner does offer Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and compatibility with Amazon Alexa. Various connected services plans are available, including the ability to turn your 4Runner into a Wi-Fi hotspot. Voice recognition performs admirably, with only a few minor hiccups.
If you prefer a more traditional and tactile approach to technology, you might be happier with the 4Runner's straightforward system.
Safety
The 4Runner may have been the clear winner on form and function, but the Sequoia takes the lead when it comes to safety. CarGurus experts awarded the 2023 Toyota Sequoia an impressive 10 out of 10 here but gave the 2023 Toyota 4Runner just 3 points.
Toyota has bundled a comprehensive set of driver-assistance features into the 2023 Sequoia under the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 (TSS 2.5) package. This includes forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, and a road-sign recognition system.
Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, Safety Connect services with emergency assistance, and front and rear parking sensors with automatic braking are also standard. TSS 2.5 proves effective in real-world driving, enhancing highway safety.
Although official crash test ratings were pending at the time of review, the Tundra, upon which the Sequoia is based, received high marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), indicating promising safety prospects.
While the 2023 Toyota 4Runner includes essential safety features such as forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, automatic high-beam headlights, and a rear-seat reminder system, it lags in other areas.
During testing, the 4Runner's adaptive cruise control performed well in braking scenarios but was slower to regain speed when changing lanes or exiting the highway. The lane-departure warning can be irritating and is easily turned off via a button on the steering wheel.
More concerning are the 4Runner's crash-test ratings. The National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) gives it an overall rating of four stars, with only a three-star rating for front passenger protection in a frontal-impact collision. Additionally, it receives a three-star rating for rollover resistance, which is less than ideal for an SUV of its height.
The IIHS has not conducted a full set of tests on the 4Runner, but it awarded the SUV a marginal rating for driver protection in the small overlap frontal-impact test.
Cost-Effectiveness
CarGurus expert reviewers gave the 2023 Toyota Sequoia 6 points out of 10 for cost-effectiveness and rated the 2023 Toyota 4Runner an 8. It's important to note, however, that these determinations were made by comparing each vehicle to its in-class competitors rather than to each other.
With a base price of around $60,000, the 2023 Sequoia faces tough competition in terms of third-row comfort and cargo space compared to rivals in its class. However, it would be wrong to ignore the fact that the Sequoia is no basic SUV. It excels in towing capacity and off-road capability, making it a suitable choice for those who prioritize these features.
Competitors like the Jeep Wagoneer and Ford Expedition do offer similar towing capabilities and often better fuel economy. Furthermore, full-size SUVs from Chevy and GMC, while less capable in towing, provide optional turbodiesel engines that outperform the Sequoia's real-world fuel efficiency.
The 2023 Toyota 4Runner stands out for its affordability, especially considering its size, off-road prowess, and overall appeal. Toyota sweetens the deal with free scheduled maintenance for two years or 24,000 miles and complimentary trial subscriptions to connected services.
While the 4Runner's fuel economy may leave something to be desired, the SUV makes up for it with its rugged appearance, legendary reliability, and robust off-road capabilities. For those seeking a capable SUV that embraces an active lifestyle, the 4Runner offers an attractive package.
Verdict
The overall CarGurus expert rating for the 2023 Toyota Sequoia is 6.7 out of 10, while the 2023 Toyota 4Runner scores 7 out of 10. As we've seen above, however, those similar averages are made up of strongly differing category scores.
Choose the 2023 Toyota Sequoia if:
- safety is a top priority for you.
- you need a spacious SUV with comfortable seating for up to seven passengers.
- you value advanced technology features and a luxurious driving experience.
Search for a 2023 Toyota Sequoia on CarGurus
Choose the 2023 Toyota 4Runner if:
- affordability is a top priority, and you want a cost-effective SUV.
- you appreciate a rugged and durable vehicle with legendary reliability.
- off-road capability and simplicity in technology are essential to your lifestyle.
Search for a 2023 Toyota 4Runner on CarGurus
Both the full-size Sequoia and the mid-size 4Runner have their strengths. The 4Runner edges ahead in terms of look and feel, form and function, and cost-effectiveness, but the Sequoia wins on performance and safety.
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