Finally, the wait for the highly anticipated Toyota Sequoia is over. There are mostly new and exciting features to celebrate. However, not every 2023 Toyota Sequoia update is good. Some crucial family features fell through the cracks. 

Is the 2023 Toyota Sequoia a good family SUV? 

Yes, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia is an excellent and reliable option as a massive family hauler. If you need to seat up to eight people, the Sequoia has everyone’s backs. You can also equip the second row with captain chairs instead of a standard bench seat. 

But according to Edmunds, the third row is a little tight. You may want a little more headspace and knee room. Also, it sits at a higher angle, so you may find that your knees sit too close to your chest. 

The second-row seats don’t slide anymore. There’s no moving them forward or back to adjust passenger and cargo space. You can slide the third-row seats around, but moving them doesn’t help much. 

How much cargo space does the 2023 Sequoia have? 

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia actually has less cargo space than the previous generation. While it’s three inches longer than the 2022 model, the new live axle setup in the rear eats into a ton of space, which is why the third row is a little compromised. 

You can access up to 11.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and up to 86.9 cubes total. The 2022 Toyota Sequoia provides 18.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats with up to 120.1 cubes total. 

Dropping from 120.1 cubic feet to only 86.9 is a massive loss. Plus, the rear seats don’t fold flat. Without a flat cargo floor, loading large, bulky items could be tricky. 

But on a positive note, the Sequoia offers a removable shelf system to help you organize your cargo. It can be rearranged in various configurations to best suit your needs. 

If you need more storage space, you can use a roof rack of haul a trailer. The Sequoia can tow up to 9,520 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,730 lbs. 

What are the Sequoia’s family-friendly features? 

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia will help families save gas. It has a new i-FORCE Max hybrid powertrain with 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque. It should improve the fuel economy to about 22 mpg in the city and up to 24 mpg on the highway. 

Plus, the independent front suspension and new multi-link rear suspension improve ride quality. Now passengers in each row can enjoy a smoother ride with less body roll and a quieter interior for a peaceful environment. 

Safety is a top priority for the Sequoia. Standard features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. 

You can even keep your kids comfortable with heated and ventilated seats in the rear. While the Sequoia is more efficient, modern, and comfortable, we’re a little bummed about the reduced amount of passenger and cargo space.