2021 Toyota Sequoia

Pros: Muscular 5.7-liter V8 engine, vast passenger- and cargo space despite being one of the smaller vehicles in the class; fine build quality

Cons: Fuel economy; wallowing handling; dashboard layout puts climate and audio controls out of easy reach

CG Says: The 2021 Toyota Sequoia adds a new Nightshade Special Edition appearance package, but is otherwise unchanged. Sequoia is Toyota’s full-size SUV with traditional body on frame construction. Up to eight passengers can be seated in three rows. A 381-horsepower 5.7-liter V8 mated to 6-speed automatic transmission is the sole drivetrain. Rear-wheel drive is standard and a four-wheel drive system with a two-speed transfer case is available on all models, except TRD Pro where it is standard. All Sequoias have standard Toyota Safety Sense (pre-collision system, pedestrian detection, lane-departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights) as well as blind-spot alert, and rear cross-traffic alert. Tri-zone automatic climate controls, power sunroof, and running boards are also standard on all models. Load-leveling rear suspension, heated front and second-row seats, and adaptive cruise control are available. Sequoia stacks up well against its rivals. We appreciate its strong engine, comfortable seating, large cargo hold, and surprising maneuverability. Less exciting are this Toyota’s wallowing handling and recalcitrant transmission. The most appealing models are the SR5 and Limited. While the Platinum offers some nice exclusive features, they’re not numerous enough to offset its substantial price premium.