2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro: More Powerful Than the Ford Bronco Raptor
Toyota just unveiled the third generation of its three-row Sequoia SUV for 2023. Every new Sequoia will feature a hybrid drivetrain, making more horsepower than a Ford Bronco Raptor and more torque than the F-150 Raptor. The first every Sequoia TRD Off-Road package will increase the SR5 and Limited trims’ off-road capability. The Sequoia TRD Pro trim level will be a true North American Land Cruiser.
The 2023 Sequoia boasts 437 horsepower, 583 lb-ft of torque
The 2023 Sequoia features an all-new hybrid Toyota Engine. Firstly, the automaker tossed the outdated 5.7-liter V8 in favor of an equally powerful twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6. Then Toyota sandwiched an electric motor between the V6 and the SUV‘s ten-speed automatic transmission.
This i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain offers 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. For comparison’s sake, Ford is upgrading its Bronco Raptor with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that makes 400 horsepower in the Explorer ST. But where the i-FORCE MAX’s performance really struts its stuff is in its torque rating. Even the F-150 Raptor, with its 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6, only makes 510 lb-ft of torque.
For the first time ever, the Toyota Sequoia offers “Drive Mode Select” with Sport and Tow/Haul settings. By switching modes you can choose how the drivetrain’s electric and gasoline motor work together, controlling its power output and efficiency.
The first ever Toyota Sequoia TRD Off-Road package
Another Toyota Sequoia first is the TRD Off-Road package. This selection upgrades either the Sequoia SR5 or Sequoia Limited’s 4WD capability.
The first major feature of the Sequoia TRD Off-Road is its selectable locking rear differential. The Sequoia suspension also benefits from Bilstein monotube shock absorbers and TRD-tuned coil springs.
The Sequoia TRD Off-Road offers a suite of trail-ready driver aids. First is Toyota’s Downhill Assist Control which uses the Sequoia’s brakes to help ease the vehicle down steep hills. Another aid is Crawl Control which keeps the vehicle moving forward at a set speed so the driver can focus on steering around obstacles.
The 2023 Sequoia with TRD Off-Road also offers Multi-Terrain Monitor which displays the vehicle’s trail cameras on the available 14-inch infotainment display. In addition, these Sequoias will feature Multi-Terrain Select which uses the ABS to prevent wheel spin on slippery surfaces.
Will the 2023 Sequoia TRD Pro be the North American Land Cruiser 300?
The ultimate off-road-ready Sequoia is the 2023 TRD Pro trim. This capable 4×4 improves on the TRD Off-Road package capability with some serious hardware.
Firstly, the 2023 Sequoia TRD Pro features FOX internal bypass shock absorbers. Secondly, this trim level adds a 1/4-inch aluminum skid plate.
A TRD roof rack immediately sets this Sequoia apart from its brethren. In addition to black TRD rims and subtly camouflaged fender flares, the TRD Pro has some unique trim. Its “TOYOTA” grille is reminiscent of the brand’s past off-road racers. But the grille is modernized with a built-in LED lightbar.
Inside, the Sequoia TRD Pro features second-row captains’ chairs, a heated steering wheel, and sportier controls. For the first time ever, Toyota will not sell its newest Land Cruiser in North America. The 2023 Sequoia TRD Pro has some big shoes to fill, but it looks ready.