2026 Toyota Sequoia vs 2026 Toyota bZ

The 2026 Toyota bZ was available in XLE and Limited trims, offering both single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) and dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, with two battery size options. The larger battery, which was standard on the Limited trim, provided enhanced power, performance, and range, albeit at a higher cost. Prices ranged from $36,495 to $46,895, including the destination charge. The XLE test vehicle featured FWD and the optional larger battery, transforming it into the XLE Plus for an additional $3,000. The vehicle's exterior design was improved with body-color trim, although some colors retained the black overfender trim. Inside, the dashboard and center console were redesigned for a cleaner look, and the fabric seats featured an upscale pattern. The center touchscreen was increased to 14 inches, integrating climate controls, which included large temperature adjustment dials and buttons for defog/defrost functions.

The 2026 Toyota Sequoia shared a family resemblance with the Tundra pickup, featuring a tall and wide stance with blocky features. Its design included a large black grille, pronounced haunches over the wheels, and black wheel flares on all models except the top Capstone trim. The cabin of the TRD Pro model was purpose-built for work and off-roading, with black synthetic leather upholstery, a camouflage pattern, and red contrast stitching. While the quality was acceptable, the interior felt utilitarian rather than luxurious. The Sequoia offered a choice of luxury levels, with the base SR5 trim featuring cloth upholstery and higher trims offering real leather and additional features like contrast stitching.

The 2026 Toyota bZ offered a range of power and efficiency options. The XLE with FWD and a 57.7-kWh battery delivered 165 horsepower and 198 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 236 miles and an efficiency rating of 26 kWh/100 miles. Upgrading to the 74.7-kWh battery increased power to 224 hp and extended the range to 314 miles. Dual-motor models with the larger battery produced 338 hp and offered varying ranges and efficiency ratings. The bZ could be recharged using a DC fast charger or a Level 2 home charger, with different charging times depending on the battery size. The vehicle's performance was tested in various conditions, revealing favorable efficiency results compared to EPA estimates. However, the bZ's handling on winding roads was limited by its tires and steering, making it less suitable for spirited driving.

The 2026 Toyota Sequoia featured a hybrid powertrain called i-Force Max, combining a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine with an electric motor. This setup produced 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque, providing strong acceleration and a V8-like growl. The Sequoia could tow up to 9,520 pounds, aided by features like a haul mode and an optional Tow Tech package. The vehicle's handling was typical for a body-on-frame SUV, with noticeable body lean in corners and a generally good ride quality. The TRD Pro model was equipped for off-roading, with features like all-terrain tires, an off-road-tuned suspension, and a part-time 4WD system with low-range gearing. The Sequoia's off-road capabilities were enhanced by a surround-view camera system and various off-road drive modes.

The 2026 Toyota bZ was built on a skateboard-style EV platform, providing 8.1 inches of ground clearance and easy access to the cabin. The front seats offered eight-way power adjustment, with heated and ventilated options available. The interior lacked a traditional glove compartment but compensated with ample storage solutions. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed good legroom, although foot space was limited. The bZ offered 27.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, with additional underfloor storage. Folding the back seats expanded the cargo capacity to 56.9 cubic feet.

The 2026 Toyota Sequoia could accommodate seven or eight passengers, with standard eight-way power seat adjustments in the front row. While the seats provided ample headroom and legroom, they were too flat for long-trip comfort. The second row offered good comfort, especially with available captain's chairs, and the third row could accommodate adults for short trips. Cargo space was limited behind the third row but expanded significantly with the seats folded. The Sequoia's cargo area featured a cargo shelf to help level the floor, although it lacked the flat load floors of some rivals.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came standard with a 7-inch digital driver display and a new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The driver display was criticized for being too far away and difficult to read, while the infotainment system was generally user-friendly but lacked a home screen for simultaneous data display. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with various connected service plans. The voice assistant worked well, although it occasionally stumbled on complex commands.

The 2026 Toyota Sequoia featured a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 14-inch touchscreen available on higher trims. The instrument cluster provided clear information, while the infotainment system was easy to use and offered shortcuts to various functions. Standard tech features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite radio, and connected services like Wi-Fi Connect and Safety Connect. Higher trims offered additional features like a head-up display and a JBL audio system.

The 2026 Toyota bZ was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which included features like forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist provided additional safety by adding subtle braking and steering inputs. The bZ also featured blind-spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. However, the bZ received mixed safety ratings from the IIHS, with poor headlight ratings and acceptable frontal-impact crash-test results.

The 2026 Toyota Sequoia came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, offering features like forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Additional standard features included blind-spot monitors and a surround-view camera system. The Sequoia received mixed crash-test results from the IIHS, with good ratings in some tests but marginal scores in others. The vehicle's safety systems performed as expected during testing, although the wide tow mirrors posed visibility challenges.