At long last, Toyota has redesigned its full-size SUV. The 2023 Sequoia sees the first ground-up redesign for the nameplate in 14 years. Though the previous generation Sequoia earned respect through its durability, critics claimed that its stagnation had allowed rivals to pull ahead. Now, the redesigned Sequoia sets its sights on competitors with a new powertrain, looks, engineering, and technology. Here’s how the Sequoia is better than one of its main foils, the 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe. 

Sequoia vs. Tahoe in 2023

First, we must set the stage. 

Both the Sequoia and Tahoe sit atop their respective brands’ SUV lineups. These are not crossovers – they are traditional, truck-based, body-on-frame SUVs. Models like the Sequoia and Tahoe offer truck-like capabilities and performance in packaging more likable for family driving (each one is based on the Tundra and Silverado, respectively). The segment demands a high standard of power, comfort, and versatility. We’ve found three categories where the Sequoia comes out ahead of the Tahoe. 

1. Sequoia has a more powerful engine than Tahoe 

Power matters in vehicles this big, and the 2023 Tahoe has plenty of it. Toyota equips the new SUV with a standard twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6 and a hybrid system – a much more sophisticated design than the outgoing V8. MotorTrend reports that the new powertrain develops 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. 

The new Tahoe is a bit behind with its standard 5.3-liter V8. The powertrain delivers 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, according to MotorTrend. 

2. Toyota achieves interior superiority over Chevy

Both SUVs offer spacious, comfortable cabins with plenty of features. But MotorTrend says the Toyota gets the edge with its brand-new updates and styling. Specifically, its report says that the Sequoia offers a better modern design and more standard features than the Tahoe. 

• Heated Seats
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto 
• 8-Inch Screen
• Three-Zone Climate Control
• Etc. 

With the Tahoe, drivers must move up from a base model to the LT trim to get similar equipment. 

3. Hybrid fuel efficiency boost 

The 2023 Sequoia made a quantum leap in engine technology from its old V8 to the new turbo-hybrid unit. It’s not only more powerful than the outgoing powertrain but also one of the most efficient SUV engines in the segment. MotorTrend reports city fuel efficiency of around 21 mpg in two-wheel drive models and 19 mpg in four-wheel drive models. 

Lower displacement, turbocharging, and hybridization work together in the Sequoia to beat the Tahoe in fuel efficiency as well. The Chevy sticks to its tried-and-true V8 engine that’s been familiar to GM fans for years. But that comes at a cost. The SUV averages 15 mpg city, whether in two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations, per MotorTrend. 

How is the Sequoia worse than the Tahoe?

The 2023 Sequoia isn’t better across the board, however. The 2023 Tahoe offers a bit more interior space, with a lower starting price and a better overall value, according to MotorTrend. Plus, some drivers will inherently prefer a traditional V8 over a more complex V6 – despite power and efficiency losses. Both SUVs offer great packaging for those needing full-size space and capability.