The facelifted 2018–2022 Toyota Sequoia RWD (USK60) is the “late-model sweet spot” of the second generation. It keeps the proven 3UR-FE 5.7-liter V8 and six-speed automatic, but adds modern driver-assistance tech and updated styling. For many buyers, this run is attractive because it combines an old-school, body-on-frame SUV with more current safety equipment and infotainment (including smartphone integration on later years).
From an ownership perspective, the Sequoia’s key traits are durability, predictable running costs for its size, and a genuinely roomy cabin for up to eight people. The trade-off is straightforward: it uses a lot of fuel and feels big in tight city streets, but it is easygoing on the highway and relaxed when towing. If you understand those compromises and can budget for fuel and preventative maintenance, a well-maintained facelift Sequoia RWD can be a long-term family workhorse rather than a short-term fashion purchase.
Top Highlights
- Strong 5.7-liter V8 (381 hp, 401 lb-ft) with a well-matched six-speed automatic and a long record of durability.
- Spacious three-row cabin and large cargo area, with comfortable ride quality from the independent rear suspension.
- Standard Toyota Safety Sense P and blind-spot monitoring from 2018, plus Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on later years, improve everyday usability.
- Watch for outstanding recalls (fuel pump, airbags and ECU-related campaigns) and confirm completion via an official VIN check.
- Typical engine oil change interval is 10,000 miles or 12 months on synthetic oil (5,000 miles under heavy use), with tyre rotation every 5,000 miles.
Quick navigation
- Facelift Sequoia USK60 insights
- 2018–2022 Sequoia RWD specs
- Facelift RWD Sequoia trims and safety
- Post-2018 reliability and known faults
- Service schedule and purchase advice
- On road manners and performance
- Facelift Sequoia rivals and options
Facelift Sequoia USK60 insights
The 2018–2022 Sequoia RWD facelift is essentially the “mature” phase of the second-generation platform. Mechanically it is nearly identical to the 2008–2017 truck: same USK60 chassis, same 3UR-FE 5.7-liter V8, and the same six-speed automatic transmission. What changes is the layer of active safety, slightly updated styling, and refinements to the electronics, particularly infotainment and connectivity.
This makes the facelift years ideal for buyers who want the simplest possible powertrain with the best available safety equipment on this generation. Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) becomes standard, adding pre-collision braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with sway warning, automatic high beams, and radar cruise control. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also widely available, which meaningfully reduce stress when changing lanes in such a large vehicle.
Inside, the Sequoia stays old-school in layout, but the facelift improves perceived quality and updates instruments and infotainment. Later models bring smartphone mirroring and more modern connectivity while keeping large physical controls that are easy to use with gloves or while towing. It feels like a “truck first, gadget second” cabin, which many long-term owners actually prefer.
As a rear-wheel-drive model, the USK60 Sequoia appeals to drivers in warmer climates or those mainly doing highway and light towing work. You avoid the extra weight and complexity of four-wheel drive, gain a small fuel-economy advantage, and still retain the same basic chassis, tow rating, and suspension architecture. With appropriate tyres and traction control, the RWD Sequoia is adequate on wet or gravel roads, though it is not the right choice for serious off-road use or frequent deep snow.
From a resale standpoint, these facelift years often command a premium over earlier second-gen trucks because of their age and standard safety kit. However, because the mechanical package is so similar, a well-maintained 2018–2020 RWD model can offer much of the utility of a late-run 4WD or TRD Pro at a lower purchase price. The trick is to buy on condition, documented maintenance, and recall completion, not on cosmetics alone.
2018–2022 Sequoia RWD specs
Engine and performance data (3UR-FE 5.7-liter V8)
| Item | Specification (Sequoia RWD USK60) |
|---|---|
| Engine code | 3UR-FE V8 |
| Layout and valvetrain | 90° V8, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, dual VVT-i |
| Displacement | 5.7 L (5,663 cc) |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 × 102.1 mm (3.70 × 4.02 in) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection |
| Compression ratio | 10.2 : 1 |
| Maximum power | 381 hp (284 kW) @ 5,600 rpm |
| Maximum torque | 401 lb-ft (543 Nm) @ 3,600 rpm |
| Recommended fuel | Regular unleaded (AKI 87) |
| Timing drive | Chain-driven camshafts |
| Emissions / certification | Gasoline, U.S. EPA compliant (market-dependent details) |
In real-world use, independent tests of comparable Sequoia models report 0–60 mph times in roughly 7–7.5 seconds, depending on trim and driveline, which is brisk for a full-size, body-on-frame SUV.
EPA fuel-economy ratings for a representative 2WD Sequoia of this era sit at about 13 mpg city, 17 mpg highway, and 15 mpg combined, corresponding to roughly 18 L/100 km combined. That fits well with owner-reported numbers for mixed use.
Transmission and driveline
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-speed electronically controlled automatic (ECT-i) with sequential (manual) mode |
| Drive type | Rear-wheel drive (2WD) |
| Typical axle / final drive ratio | Around 4.30:1 (varies slightly by trim) |
| Differential | Open rear differential with electronic traction and stability control |
| Towing hardware | Factory tow package available, with hitch receiver, wiring, and additional cooling on many trims |
There are no hybrid or alternative powertrains in this generation; all facelift Sequoias share the same gasoline V8 and six-speed automatic.
Chassis and dimensions
Representative figures for a facelift Sequoia RWD (values vary slightly by trim and year):
| Item | Metric | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Body type | — | 5-door body-on-frame SUV |
| Length | ~5,210 mm | 205.1 in |
| Width (excluding mirrors) | ~2,029 mm | 79.9 in |
| Height | ~1,956 mm | 77.0 in |
| Wheelbase | ~3,099 mm | 122.0 in |
| Ground clearance | ~251 mm | 9.9 in |
| Turning circle (kerb-to-kerb) | ~11.6 m | 38.1 ft |
| Curb weight | ~2,600 kg | ~5,730 lb |
| GVWR | ~3,220 kg | 7,100 lb |
| Payload | ~620 kg | ~1,370 lb |
| Fuel tank | ~98 L | 26 US gal |
| Cargo volume (seats up) | ~535 L | 18.9 ft³ |
| Cargo volume (seats folded) | ~3,400 L | 120.1 ft³ |
Suspension and brakes:
- Front: independent double wishbone with coil springs and anti-roll bar.
- Rear: independent double wishbone; some trims feature rear air suspension and adaptive dampers.
- Brakes: ventilated discs front and rear with ABS, brake assist, and electronic brakeforce distribution.
Performance and capability
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) | ~7–7.5 s (approximate) |
| Top speed (approximate, limited) | ~110–115 mph (~177–185 km/h) |
| Maximum towing capacity (2WD) | Up to 7,400 lb (≈3,350 kg) with weight-distributing hitch and tow package |
| Roof load (typical) | ~75–100 kg (check manual and roof labels) |
Braking distances depend on tyres and load; fitting quality tyres and maintaining the braking system are essential if you often tow near the upper limit.
Fluids and service capacities (typical)
Always confirm against the correct owner’s manual and repair manual for your VIN and market.
| System | Specification (typical) |
|---|---|
| Engine oil | 0W-20 full-synthetic meeting Toyota spec; ~7.4–7.7 L (7.8–8.1 US qt) with filter |
| Engine coolant | Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink, premixed); total capacity roughly 14–15 L |
| Automatic transmission fluid | Toyota WS (World Standard); total capacity around 10–12 L |
| Differential oil (rear) | Hypoid gear oil, typically 75W-85 or 75W-90 to Toyota spec, ~3 L |
| Power steering | Fluid type per manual (often ATF-based); level and condition checked at service |
| A/C refrigerant | R-134a; charge mass depends on options (see under-bonnet label) |
| A/C compressor oil | ND-OIL type specified by Toyota; quantity per service manual |
| Example torque values | Wheel nuts ~131 Nm (97 lb-ft); oil drain plug ~40 Nm (30 lb-ft) |
Electrical system
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Alternator | Typically around 180 A output on V8 models (trim-dependent) |
| 12 V battery | Large SUV group size, around 710–750 CCA depending on brand |
| Spark plugs | Long-life iridium, 8 units, usual change interval about 120,000 miles / 192,000 km |
Facelift RWD Sequoia trims and safety
Trims and equipment (RWD focus)
Across 2018–2022, the Sequoia range typically includes SR5, TRD Sport (from 2018), Limited, and Platinum. All of these can be configured as RWD in most markets.
- SR5 RWD
The starting point but still well equipped: 18-inch wheels, tri-zone climate control, eight-seat cabin (second-row bench), and standard TSS-P active-safety suite. It is a popular base for owners who intend to customise suspension and tyres. - TRD Sport (RWD)
A more dynamic variant based on the SR5 with TRD-tuned dampers, different anti-roll bars, and 20-inch wheels. The aim is crisper on-road handling rather than off-road capability. The engine and tow rating remain the same. - Limited RWD
Adds leather upholstery, premium audio, power tailgate, and additional convenience features. Many Limited models use second-row captain’s chairs, giving a more spacious feel for seven occupants. - Platinum RWD
The top-of-the-line comfort trim. Features can include rear air suspension, adaptive dampers, ventilated front seats, more extensive sound insulation, and additional interior luxury touches. Rear air suspension is the main extra system to consider for long-term maintenance.
Infotainment evolves within the facelift run. Early 2018–2019 trucks benefit mostly from updated graphics and improved Bluetooth; by around 2020 the Sequoia gains Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on many trims, which significantly improves perceived “modernity” even though the underlying dashboard design is older.
Safety ratings
The underlying second-generation Sequoia platform was primarily crash-tested when it launched around 2008. Those results showed strong frontal and side protection and a four-star rollover rating, typical for a tall, body-on-frame SUV. The facelift 2018–2022 models share this basic structure; there is no completely new full crash program specific to the facelift years.
Key points:
- The structural crash performance reflects early-2010s design assumptions rather than the most recent small-overlap and roof-strength test protocols.
- Newer competitors often have a complete set of updated IIHS and NHTSA ratings, whereas the facelift Sequoia relies more on its added active-safety systems.
In practical terms, the Sequoia combines a robust frame and size-related crash advantages with a somewhat older set of passive-safety design choices, balanced by the modern ADAS it gained in the facelift.
Safety systems and ADAS
From 2018 onward, Toyota Safety Sense P is standard on all Sequoia grades, including RWD. It generally includes:
- Pre-Collision System with pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking
- Lane Departure Alert with sway warning
- Automatic High Beams
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (adaptive cruise)
In addition, facelift trucks offer:
- Blind spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert on most trims
- Stability and traction control, ABS with brake assist, hill-start assist
- Multiple airbags (front, side, side-curtain, and driver’s knee; exact layout per manual)
After any significant collision, windscreen replacement, or front-end repair that affects the radar sensor, camera, or ride height, the ADAS must be recalibrated using Toyota’s procedures. Owners should ensure that body shops have the equipment and documentation to perform this.
For families, the Sequoia’s large cabin and wide doors make child-seat installation relatively straightforward. LATCH/ISOFIX anchor points and tether locations are clearly marked; however, as with any three-row SUV, placing multiple child seats while still allowing access to the third row requires some planning and testing.
Post-2018 reliability and known faults
Overall, the facelift-era Sequoia maintains a strong reliability reputation among full-size SUVs. Most issues fall into predictable categories that relate to age, mileage, or specific components rather than inherent design flaws.
Engine and drivetrain
The 3UR-FE engine is robust and widely used across Toyota’s truck lineup. Major internal failures are rare when oil is changed on schedule and the cooling system is maintained. Still, owners and technicians see recurring patterns:
- Secondary air-injection system (SAIS) faults
- Symptoms: check-engine light, reduced-power or limp mode, fault codes indicating pump or valve malfunction.
- Cause: moisture, corrosion, and debris affecting the air pump and switching valves, especially in wet or salty environments.
- Remedy: replacement of pumps, valves, and sometimes associated plumbing; updated components and careful routing help prevent recurrence.
- Exhaust manifold cracks or leaks
- Symptoms: ticking sound on cold start that quietens as the engine warms up, sometimes coupled with faint exhaust smell.
- Cause: thermal stress and repeated heat cycles in the manifolds.
- Remedy: manifold replacement; this is labour-intensive due to tight access and possibly corroded hardware.
Oil leaks from valve-cover gaskets or the front timing cover can develop at higher mileage. These are usually manageable but worth addressing early to avoid contamination of belts and mounts and to keep the engine bay clean.
The six-speed automatic transmission has a good track record so long as fluid remains in good condition and the vehicle is not constantly overloaded. Typical wear issues—such as occasional shudder or slightly harsh shifts—usually respond well to fluid service. Genuine Toyota WS fluid and sensible drain-and-fill intervals are strongly recommended.
Chassis, suspension, and brakes
Being a heavy, body-on-frame SUV, the Sequoia loads its suspension components quite heavily:
- Control-arm bushings and ball joints
- Expect wear around 100,000–150,000 miles, sometimes sooner with heavy towing or rough roads.
- Symptoms include wandering steering, clunks over bumps, and irregular tyre wear.
- Sway-bar links and bushes
- Relatively inexpensive but commonly worn parts that cause light knocking noises on small bumps.
- Rear air suspension (Platinum)
- Symptoms: sagging rear ride height, compressor running frequently, warning messages.
- Causes: aging air springs, leaking lines, and compressors nearing end of life.
- Remedies: replacing the faulty air components or converting to coil springs using a dedicated kit.
- Brakes
- Front rotors and pads can wear relatively quickly if you tow often or drive in mountainous areas.
- Symptoms of warped or uneven rotors include pulsation in the pedal during braking from higher speeds.
Body and corrosion
In rust-prone regions, underbody and frame corrosion can become an issue:
- Frame rails and crossmembers should be inspected for significant scaling or perforation.
- Brake and fuel lines running along the chassis can corrode; replacement is not trivial and should be planned before leaks occur.
- Doors, tailgate, and lower body seams should be checked for bubbling paint or rust creeping from the inside out.
Rust is very climate-dependent. A truck from a dry region can still look nearly new underneath, while one from snow-belt areas may require extensive attention.
Recalls, TSBs, and extended coverage
Facelift Sequoias have several notable recall campaigns and technical service bulletins:
- Fuel pump recall
Affected vehicles use a low-pressure fuel pump that can fail, causing stalling and no-start conditions. The remedy is replacement with updated parts. - Airbag and occupant-classification system recalls
Some models are covered by campaigns to reprogram or replace components to ensure correct deployment in various crash scenarios. - Various ECU and software updates
These may refine stability-control behaviour, engine or transmission response, or emissions strategies.
Before you buy or as part of ongoing ownership:
- Run the VIN through your region’s official recall database.
- Ask a Toyota dealer to print a record of completed and outstanding campaigns.
- Keep documentation of recall completion with your service records.
Pre-purchase reliability checks
For a facelift Sequoia RWD, a careful pre-purchase inspection should cover:
- Full diagnostic scan for fault codes in engine, transmission, ABS, airbag, and ADAS modules.
- Cold and hot test drive to check for shudder, harsh shifts, odd noises, or warning lights.
- Underbody inspection for frame corrosion, fluid leaks, and prior accident repairs.
- Specific checks on rear air suspension (if Platinum) and operation of all ADAS features.
- Review of service history to confirm oil, coolant, and key fluid changes, plus recall work.
A truck that passes these checks and shows consistent care is likely to remain reliable for many years.
Service schedule and purchase advice
Practical maintenance roadmap
The official Warranty and Maintenance Guide provides the definitive schedule, but many experienced owners and technicians follow a slightly more cautious pattern, especially for towing or severe use. A balanced baseline for a facelift Sequoia RWD:
- Engine oil and filter
- Normal use: every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months with 0W-20 synthetic.
- Severe use (frequent towing, heavy loads, extreme temperatures, short trips): every 5,000 miles (8,000 km).
- Engine air filter
- Inspect at 15,000 miles (24,000 km); replace around 30,000–45,000 miles (48,000–72,000 km), sooner in dusty conditions.
- Cabin air filter
- Replace every 15,000–20,000 miles (24,000–32,000 km) or about every 2 years.
- Coolant
- First replacement typically around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 10 years, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years.
- Spark plugs
- Around 120,000 miles (192,000 km) under normal conditions; earlier if misfire, rough running, or poor fuel economy appear.
- Automatic transmission fluid
- Although some schedules list “no change required” for normal service, a drain-and-fill every 60,000–90,000 miles (96,000–145,000 km) is sensible for longevity, especially for towing.
- Rear differential fluid
- Change every 30,000–60,000 miles (48,000–96,000 km), depending on tow usage.
- Brake fluid
- Replace every 3 years, regardless of mileage, to control moisture and maintain braking performance.
- Brake pads and rotors
- Inspect at least annually; heavy towing or city driving can wear front pads more quickly.
- Serpentine belt and hoses
- Detailed inspection from 60,000 miles (96,000 km) onward; replacement typically around 90,000–120,000 miles (145,000–193,000 km) or at earliest sign of cracking or glazing.
- Steering, suspension, and alignment
- Full inspection every 30,000 miles or 2 years; align whenever steering feels off-centre, tyre wear is uneven, or after suspension repairs.
- 12 V battery
- Test yearly from year 4–5; replacement is often due around 5–7 years depending on climate and usage.
Because the 3UR-FE uses a timing chain, there is no fixed belt interval. Chains, guides, and tensioners are serviced “by condition,” meaning they are only replaced if symptoms (rattle at cold start, timing correlation codes, metal in oil) appear.
Fluid choices and workshop conversations
Having baseline information at hand makes it easier to discuss work with a workshop:
- Engine oil: 0W-20 synthetic meeting current Toyota specifications.
- Coolant: Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink) or exact equivalent.
- ATF: Toyota WS only, unless a reputable Toyota specialist recommends otherwise in special circumstances.
- Gear oils: GL-5 gear oils in Toyota-specified viscosities for the differential.
Always defer to the exact fluids and intervals specified for your market and VIN in official documents.
Buyer’s checklist for facelift RWD Sequoia
When viewing a used 2018–2022 Sequoia RWD, work through a structured list:
- Exterior and structure
- Check panel gaps, paint consistency, and any signs of accident repair.
- Inspect underbody, frame rails, crossmembers, and tow-hitch mounts for corrosion or bent metal.
- Engine and bay
- Look for oil or coolant leaks; inspect around valve covers, front cover, water pump, and radiator end tanks.
- Check coolant condition (colour and clarity) and oil level.
- Transmission and driveline
- On test drive, confirm smooth shifts in all gears, with no flare or clunking.
- Listen for driveline noises at steady speeds (whine, growls, or vibration).
- Suspension and tyres
- Look for uneven tyre wear and check tyre age.
- Drive over rough patches and listen for clunks or knocking from the front or rear.
- Brakes
- Feel for pulsation or pulling under braking.
- Inspect brake rotors and approximate pad thickness if possible.
- Interior and electronics
- Verify operation of climate control (including rear zone), infotainment, camera, radar cruise, lane alerts, and all power windows/locks/seats.
- Check operation of folding and reclining mechanisms on second and third rows.
- Records and recalls
- Ask for a maintenance log, receipts, and recall-completion proof.
- Confirm that major campaigns such as the fuel-pump recall have been done.
Which years and trims to target?
Because the drivetrain is broadly the same throughout the facelift period, choice is mostly about equipment, condition, and budget:
- 2019–2021 SR5 or Limited RWD often offer the best value mix of age, equipment, and price.
- 2018 SR5 or TRD Sport RWD can be strong buys if well-maintained, giving the safety refresh at a lower purchase cost.
- Platinum RWD suits buyers who want maximum comfort and features and are prepared to maintain or repair rear air suspension if needed.
Overall, a clean, rust-free Sequoia RWD with a strong maintenance record is more important than chasing a specific year, unless you particularly want later infotainment updates.
On road manners and performance
Ride, handling, and NVH
Despite its size and body-on-frame architecture, the Sequoia’s independent suspension gives it a relatively composed ride on typical highways. Expansion joints and patchy tarmac are felt, but not harsh; the suspension is tuned more for comfort than for sharp reflexes. On rougher surfaces, there is some body motion, but it is well controlled and never feels nervous.
Urban driving highlights the truck’s dimensions. Narrow streets and tight parking lots require attention, though good visibility and a relatively tight turning circle for its size help. Steering effort is on the light side, aimed at ease rather than precision, which suits the vehicle’s family and towing roles.
TRD Sport variants introduce firmer shocks and anti-roll bars, making the truck feel slightly more tied down in corners at the cost of some extra firmness over small, sharp bumps. Platinum models with adaptive suspension can smooth out oscillations at highway speeds, though diagnosis and repair costs are higher when those components age.
Powertrain character
The 3UR-FE V8 defines the Sequoia driving experience. It delivers strong, linear torque across the rev range, with no turbo lag or sudden surges. Throttle response is predictable at low speeds, making parking and low-speed manoeuvres with a trailer easier.
The six-speed automatic is tuned to be smooth and unobtrusive. In normal driving it shifts early and uses taller gears to keep revs low and cabin noise down. Press the accelerator more firmly and the transmission kicks down promptly, allowing brisk overtakes. Tow/haul mode alters shift points to hold lower gears longer and improve engine braking, which is helpful on long descents with a trailer.
On the highway, the combination of torque, gearing, and relatively quiet operation makes the Sequoia a relaxed cruiser. The V8 is barely audible at steady speeds and only really announces itself under heavier acceleration.
Real-world fuel economy
Fuel consumption is the main everyday compromise with the Sequoia. In practice, owners commonly report:
- City driving: roughly 11–14 mpg US (17–21 L/100 km).
- Highway driving at 100–120 km/h: around 16–17 mpg US (14–15 L/100 km).
- Mixed driving: roughly 13–15 mpg US (15–18 L/100 km), depending on speed, load, tyre choice, and climate.
Heavy towing, roof boxes, and high speeds all worsen fuel economy noticeably. For many buyers, the key is accepting that fuel costs will be high but fairly predictable, and balancing that against the vehicle’s utility and longevity.
Traction and control (RWD context)
In RWD form, the Sequoia relies on stability control, traction control, and good tyres rather than a transfer case and driven front axle. For warm or moderate climates and mainly paved-road use, this is completely acceptable and slightly reduces complexity and running costs.
On wet or loose surfaces, the electronics react quickly to wheelspin, trimming power and braking individual wheels to help maintain control. With quality all-season or all-terrain tyres, a RWD Sequoia handles most rain and graded dirt roads confidently. However, it will not match the capability of the 4WD USK65 model in deep snow, mud, or steep off-road terrain.
Towing and load behaviour
The Sequoia RWD’s tow rating of up to about 7,400 lb gives it similar capability to many rival full-size SUVs. When properly equipped with a weight-distributing hitch and trailer brake controller, the truck feels stable at highway speeds:
- The long wheelbase and independent rear suspension contribute to stable, predictable tracking.
- Engine torque makes merging and passing manageable even when towing within the rated range.
- Transmission temperatures remain under control if tow/haul mode is used sensibly and fluid is in good condition.
Under heavy loads, braking behaviour depends strongly on the condition of the truck’s brakes and the trailer’s brake system. Regular inspection and high-quality pads are important if you often tow near the upper limit or drive in mountainous areas.
Facelift Sequoia rivals and options
When cross-shopping a 2018–2022 Sequoia RWD, typical alternatives include:
- Chevrolet Tahoe / Suburban and GMC Yukon (5.3 or 6.2 V8 engines)
- Ford Expedition (3.5-liter EcoBoost V6)
- Nissan Armada and Infiniti QX80 (5.6-liter V8)
Where the Sequoia RWD stands out
- Powertrain simplicity
While many rivals have moved to downsized turbo engines, cylinder-deactivation systems, or more complex transmissions, the Sequoia sticks with a naturally aspirated V8 and a conventional six-speed automatic. This makes long-term ownership relatively straightforward and familiar to most truck-focused workshops. - Durability and reputation
The 3UR-FE engine family has a strong record in heavy-duty Toyota applications. Paired with a robust frame and conservative tuning, the Sequoia tends to age gracefully when properly maintained. - Towing and packaging
The independent rear suspension and generous cargo volume give the Sequoia a practical edge: it can tow confidently while still offering a flat, low cargo floor and genuine room in all three rows.
Where rivals may be stronger
- Fuel economy
Turbocharged V6 competitors like the Ford Expedition often return better fuel economy, especially in lightly loaded or steady highway use. Over high annual mileage, this can add up to a significant cost difference. - Interior modernity and tech
The Sequoia’s cabin design is older, even with the facelift updates. Rivals often provide more contemporary styling, larger screens, and more advanced infotainment and sound systems. - Comprehensive crash-test coverage
Some competitors have full modern IIHS and NHTSA crash-test data, including recent small-overlap and headlight tests. The Sequoia relies on older structural tests plus more modern driver-assistance systems, which may matter to buyers who prioritise the very latest safety ratings.
Who should choose the facelift RWD Sequoia?
The 2018–2022 Sequoia RWD is a strong fit if you:
- Want a large, naturally aspirated V8 SUV with a reputation for long-term durability.
- Live in a climate where RWD traction is sufficient and do not require frequent off-road use.
- Tow medium-to-heavy trailers occasionally and value a stable, predictable tow vehicle.
- Care more about mechanical robustness and straightforward maintenance than about cutting-edge cabin design or maximum fuel efficiency.
It may not be ideal if you:
- Drive mostly in dense urban environments and rarely use the space or towing ability.
- Need the best possible fuel economy in a large vehicle.
- Demand the latest interior and infotainment tech or the newest crash-structure engineering.
For the right owner, a clean facelift Sequoia RWD is a capable, predictable, and long-lasting family and tow vehicle that trades some efficiency and modernity for robustness and simplicity.
References
- Gas Mileage of 2019 Toyota Sequoia 2019 (Fuel Economy Data)
- Vehicle Detail Search – 2019 TOYOTA SEQUOIA SUV 2WD | NHTSA 2020 (Recall Database)
- 2019 Toyota Sequoia: The Family Vehicle Ready for Everything – Toyota USA Newsroom 2018 (Press Release)
- SEQUOIA 2019 (Warranty and Maintenance Guide)
- 2019 Toyota Sequoia Specs and Features 2019 (Specifications)
Disclaimer
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, repair, or safety advice. Specifications, torque values, maintenance intervals, and procedures can vary by VIN, model year, market, and installed equipment. Always verify all technical information against the official owner’s manual, Warranty and Maintenance Guide, and service documentation for your specific vehicle, and consult a qualified technician before carrying out any work.
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