Compared: 2023 Toyota Sequoia vs. 2023 Toyota 4Runner
Picking the ideal Toyota SUV for on-road driving and off-road adventuring.
Toyota | Sequoia, 4Runner
With tall stances, chunky tires, and boxy styling, both the 2023 Toyota 4Runner and 2023 Toyota Sequoia appeal to shoppers looking for a rugged image — and maybe real capability, too. If you find yourself in a Toyota showroom ogling the brand's high-riding SUVs, the Sequoia and 4Runner have some overlap in capability both on and off the road.
The 2023 Toyota Sequoia is a large three-row SUV fresh off a redesign. It comes standard with a powerful hybrid engine and seating for eight, plus it is based on the similarly updated full-size Tundra pickup truck. Key upgrades compared with the outgoing Sequoia include improved fuel economy and a much higher-quality cabin with a more premium degree of features.
The 2023 Toyota 4Runner is a midsize SUV with room for five (or seven on some trims), along with a reputation for go-anywhere capabilities. A third row is optional on some trims, though it's tiny and best used only by kids. Despite updates over the years that have added more tech and active safety features to the 4Runner, this generation dates back to the 2010 model year.
Toyota | Sequoia
2023 Toyota Sequoia vs. 2023 Toyota 4Runner: Price
The Toyota Sequoia is available in five trims and the entry-level SR5 model in rear-wheel-drive configuration starts at around $61,000. Adding four-wheel drive (4WD) costs around $2,600, except in the TRD Pro trim where it comes standard. Every Sequoia is fitted with a hybrid, twin-turbocharged V6 that produces an impressive 437 horsepower. When properly equipped, the Sequoia has a maximum towing capacity of 9,520 pounds versus the 4Runner's maximum of 5,000 pounds.
Sitting atop the Sequoia lineup, the TRD Pro emphasizes all-terrain prowess with features such as underbody skid plates and a locking rear differential. The similarly priced Capstone is loaded with luxury features including upgraded leather upholstery and power-operated running boards. The TRD Pro starts just above $79,000 and the Capstone just below.
Toyota | 4Runner
The 2023 Toyota 4Runner is offered in eight trim levels and has a starting price of about $41,000, including the destination fee. Every 4Runner is powered by a 270-hp V6 engine coupled with a five-speed automatic transmission.
Rear-wheel drive is standard, though 4WD is available for $3,000 extra on the SR5, SR5 Sport, SR5 Premium, and Limited trims. 4WD is standard on all TRD-badged models, including the new-for-2023 40th Anniversary Edition. Sitting atop the 4Runner lineup, the TRD Pro model targets SUV shoppers looking for off-road performance. It carries a price tag of around $56,000.
Toyota | Sequoia
2023 Toyota Sequoia vs. 2023 Toyota 4Runner: Features
With its recent reboot, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia has the latest infotainment conveniences, including standard wireless smartphone connectivity, an available 14.0-inch touchscreen (it's standard on all but the base SR5 trim), a Wi-Fi hot spot, navigation, multiple USB ports, and satellite radio. Options include wireless device charging, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 14-speaker stereo, and a head-up display.
Toyota | 4Runner
In comparison, the 2023 4Runner comes only with an 8.0-inch touchscreen — comparable to what's found in the entry-level Sequoia — and makes do with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Unlike its bigger SUV sibling, neither allows wireless device charging, there are no second-row captain's chairs or a load-leveling rear air suspension. To its credit, the 4Runner has a cavernous cargo hold that's made more convenient with an optional sliding rear cargo deck ($350). It's designed to make loading bulky items easier and doubles as a handy table or seating during tailgate parties.
Toyota | Sequoia
2023 Toyota Sequoia vs. 2023 Toyota 4Runner: Fuel Economy
Despite having significantly more horsepower than the 4Runner, the EPA estimates the 2023 Toyota Sequoia's twin-turbo hybrid V6 returns an average of 20 to 22 mpg.
Toyota | 4Runner
The 2023 Toyota 4Runner's thirst for fuel remains the same no matter which wheels are being motivated. In rear-drive and 4WD configuration, it returns just 17 mpg, which is among the poorest showings for any mainstream SUV.
Written by humans.
Edited by humans.
Nick KurczewskiNick Kurczewski is a freelance automotive journalist based in the New York metro area. With approximately 20 years of experience, he has covered all aspects of the car world, from the pit lane at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, to car shows around the world, and a Zamboni lesson in Lower Manhattan. He’s also adept at providing helpful car advice and steering people towards the ideal car, truck, or SUV for their driving needs.
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