The 2023 Toyota Sequoia Dominates as SUV of Texas
Things are heating up because the Toyota Sequoia may have caused an upset. It’s outranking rivals such as the Jeep Grand Wagoneer and Kia Telluride to steal coveted awards. But the voters have spoken, and the 2023 Toyota Sequoia is the official SUV of Texas.
The 2023 Toyota Sequoia wins best SUV
Congratulations to the 2023 Toyota Sequoia for becoming the official SUV of Texas. This is pretty exciting because the Sequoia has brand new changes for the first time in 15 years, plus it’s built in the Lonestar state.
It may serve as a local hero against competitors like the Chevy Tahoe, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, and Kia Telluride. In fact, it’s stepping on Stellantis territory.
The Ram 1500 has claimed the title of Texas Truck of the Year multiple times in a row. Also, the Jeep Grand Wagoneer won the 2022 Texas SUV of the Year award. This means the Sequoia was able to swoop in and steal the victory.
Why did the Sequoia win SUV of Texas?
The 2023 Toyota Sequoia was tested against rivals by the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) at the annual Texas Truck Rodeo. Tons of journalists gathered at the off-road course at Eagles Canyon Raceway in Decatur to put vehicles to the test.
Each vehicle is judged based on its interior, exterior, value, performance, and personal appeal. The Sequoia made such a great impression that it earned the highest scores for the best full-size SUV, best off-roading SUV, and best exterior.
Teia Collier, President of TAWA, shared that Toyota did a gorgeous job at remaking a classic from the ground up, and TAWA’s members took notice. Members are impressed by the Sequoia’s capability, powerful new engine, and attractive new looks, which helped it stand out against noteworthy rivals.
The Sequoia comes standard with the new i-FORCE max hybrid powertrain. The setup pairs a 3.5-liter V6 engine with an electric motor to churn out 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque. This engine helps the Sequoia accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.0 seconds.
Plus, the Sequoia hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and up to 24 mpg on the highway, which is a significant increase over the outgoing model.
When properly equipped, the 2023 Sequoia can tow up to 9,520 lbs and can carry a payload of up to 1,730 lbs.
Does the 2023 Sequoia have a nice interior?
Yes, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia has an incredibly luxurious interior with multiple grades to choose from. The SR5, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro, and Capstone models feature a strong build quality and upscale materials with advanced tech.
Moving up to the top-spec, Capstone trim provides access to power running boards, upgraded semi-aniline leather upholstery, genuine American walnut wood accents, chrome trim pieces, and 22-inch wheels.
The 14.0-inch infotainment system quickly responds to sight, voice, and touch. Plus, there’s a new head-up display, wireless phone charging pad, 360-degree camera, and tailor backup assist system.
The Sequoia is the Texas SUV of the year because it’s attractive, robust, has real off-roading chops, and offers an unmatched level of luxury.
