Toyota has a good number of quality SUVs available down the lineup. From the most luxurious Sequoia to an all-arounder SUV, the 2025 4Runner, there is something for everyone.
Let’s talk a bit more about Sequoia, a reliable SUV with good fuel economy (thanks to its hybrid powertrain), ample cargo space, and impressive towing capacity. You’d be surprised to know it is often compared with the Toyota 4Runner.
We get it! Consumers want to know what are the actual differences and how do both these two SUVs compare with each other. In this guide, we will take an in-depth look at both of these vehicles. So, let us get into it!
Table of Contents
- 2025 Toyota Sequoia vs 4Runner – Differences, Similarities, and More!
- Toyota Sequoia vs Toyota 4Runner – Specifications
- Toyota Sequoia vs Toyota 4Runner – Interior
- Toyota Sequoia vs Toyota 4Runner – Performance
- Toyota Sequoia vs Toyota 4Runner – Reliability
- Final Thoughts!
- Frequently Asked Questions
Toyota Sequoia vs Toyota 4Runner – Specifications
Comparing the Toyota Sequoia versus the Toyota 4Runner includes comparing specifications to better understand how each vehicle performs. The Sequoia offers more space and can accommodate larger families.
On the other hand, the 4Runner is a smaller and compact SUV, specializing in off-roading. Both Toyota vehicles are full of their reputation for reliability and durability, but the specification speaks to different needs.
| Specification | Toyota Sequoia | Toyota 4Runner |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 5.7L V8 | 4.0L V6 |
| Horsepower | 381 hp | 270 hp |
| Towing Capacity | 7,400 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Seating Capacity | 8 seats | 5-7 seats |
| Cargo Space | 18.9 cubic feet | 9.0 cubic feet |
Toyota Sequoia vs Toyota 4Runner – Interior
When it comes to interior space and comfort, the Toyota Sequoia and Toyota 4Runner take two distinct positions. Both are practical vehicles designed with versatility in mind, but they cater to slightly different needs.
The Sequoia offers more room and a more spacious feel, making it ideal for larger families or those who prioritize comfort on long trips. The 4Runner, while still practical, is better suited for drivers who need flexibility without the bulk of a full-size SUV.
Seating and Space
In terms of dimensions, Sequoia is bigger and can hold 8 people. It falls into the category of full-size SUVs, providing accommodation for eight people in three rows. The Sequoia’s second-row captain’s chairs(extra) add extra comfort for passengers, while its third row has more space than passengers can stand: This is the major reason to pick it in our comparison chart.
The normal configuration for the Toyota 4Runner has a seating capacity of five (standard), but some combinations offer a third row, so it can seat as many as seven people at most. Nevertheless, the 4Runner’s third-row seat is best left for children because adult passengers lack foot space there, which makes seating in these areas unattractive.
Cabin Comfort and Features
As far as the cabin goes, the Sequoia feels mighty big and ornate. With leather upholstery and heated, cooled front seats added on top of that–and also able to be programmed for five different setting patterns by the driver’s preference system–it’s probably got a high level of comfort/versatility as well.
The Sequoia also features tri-zone automatic climate control. The cabin design of the 4Runner is simpler and more robust. The comfortable yet practical seating features cloth or leather (option) and can be feathered with adjustable power on higher trim levels, which receive dual-zone air conditioning and barbecue pool tables for greater enjoyment.
Technology and Infotainment
Both SUVs have had their Toyota infotainment systems updated, and these now feature touchscreen displays. Their systems now also include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as being compatible with Amazon Alexa.
The Sequoia has a larger dashboard and screen options for premium sound systems, ranging from regular speakers to the available 14-speaker JBL system. The 4Runner is not as lavish in terms of infotainment systems as the Sequoia, but that said, it still makes for a good infotainment system and is easy to operate.
Storage and Utility
The win goes to the Sequoia for cargo space, pop down all the seats, has plenty of space left over for luggage, gear, or groceries, and it is a better fit for long road trips and family vacations. Because it offers more space for both luggage and people, the Sequoia is ideal for long road trips or family vacations.
The Sequoia, a big and luxurious 4WD van with its phenomenal cargo space, is the estimated 1st place finisher for overall baggage capacity. The 4Runner, in contrast, emphasizes efficient utility.
Toyota Sequoia vs Toyota 4Runner – Performance
In terms of performance, there is a lot to talk about both of these beasts. For your ease, we have compared these vehicles for different aspects that contribute to overall performance.
Engine & Powertrain
The 2025 Toyota Sequoia features the impressive i-FORCE MAX powertrain, combining power and efficiency. It’s 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid engine delivers 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. An electric motor assists when starting from a standstill, giving the Sequoia a smooth and responsive launch.
This hybrid system really shines under heavy loads or during hard acceleration. It provides the muscle needed for towing and the extra boost that makes off-road driving more capable and confident. Thanks to its smart use of hybrid technology, the Sequoia is both a strong performer and a practical choice for drivers who need power, especially when hauling or exploring rugged terrain.
On the other hand, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner comes with a 4.0-liter V6 engine that delivers 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. It’s not as powerful as the Sequoia’s setup, but it holds its own where it counts.
What the 4Runner lacks in brute strength, it makes up for in reliability and lower maintenance costs. For many drivers, that combination of dependability and affordability will be a big win.
Transmissions and Drivetrain Options
The Sequoia is offered with a 10-speed automatic transmission, smooth shift and also economical to cruise in its top gears. It also provides a choice of transfer cases for either 2WD or 4WD, depending on your needs.
The Toyota 4Runner, on the other hand, uses a 5-speed automatic transmission. While it might seem outdated compared to modern setups, it’s known for being reliable and durable. In short, it has been a trusted choice for many years.
Towing Capacity
In terms of towing, the Sequoia beats the 4Runner. Sequoia 2025 has a towing capacity of up to 9,520 pounds, which is great for pulling boats, campers, and trailers. It is the best choice for those needing a serious SUV for outdoor pursuits or work-related tasks.
The 4Runner offers 5,000 pounds of max towing capacity. This would still be considered very capable for smaller trailers or recreational gear, but would not be user-friendly for someone who needed heavy-duty towing.
Fuel Economy
With the help of its hybrid drive system, the Full-Size Sequoia SUV still gets 21 miles per gallon in city driving and 24 miles per gallon on the highway. That’s not a bad set of estimates for a big utility truck of this size.
At a lower 16MPG in city conditions and 19 on highways, the non-hybrid 4Runner lacks. It’s not perfect for someone who wants to save a few dollars[pounds, francs,etc] when refueling at higher gas prices during long drives. Here is our in-depth take on the Toyota Sequoia’s Fuel Economy.
Off-road Capabilities
We can say that both these reliable SUVs are kind of off-road-centric. However, they are designed differently. The Sequoia has plenty of power, but a large and heavy full-bodied SUV, especially on tight trails, can be hard to maneuver, but with its advanced suspension and off-road packages, is still very strong off-road.
The 4Runner undoubtedly is known for off-road driving characteristics, and teamed with high ground clearance, locking rear differentials, and skid plates, makes backcountry trail and rocky terrain performance a breeze.
The Toyota Sequoia vs 4Runner 2025 discussion often boils down to size and agility for off-road limitations, and if you need size and agility, then the 4Runner will be a one-size-fits-all for off-road experience, whether compact or otherwise.
Toyota Sequoia vs Toyota 4Runner – Reliability
When buyers are considering a vehicle for the long haul, reliability becomes one of the most important factors. Fortunately, both the Toyota Sequoia and 4Runner have built strong reputations for long-term dependability. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at how the two compare in terms of reliability, focusing on key areas like build quality, life expectancy, maintenance needs, warranty coverage, and overall customer satisfaction.
Real Reliability Records
The Toyota 4Runner has been an enthusiast favorite for a couple of generations now in terms of real durability, and people can’t seem to get enough! Most of the 4Runners have body-on-frame construction, and the rugged exterior is just one part of their identity.
If you’d like to believe it, many 4Runners reach 200,000, 300,00 miles, and it is just normal wear for customers who perform basic maintenance. These conditions and performance have made it one of the SUV household names on the treacherous roads of North American society, especially by outdoor enthusiasts and fans of adventure.
The Toyota Sequoia is a newer make and model but still has a solid reputation in many reliable aspects, too, albeit not as old as the 4Runner. The new 2025 Toyota Sequoia is offered with a hybrid powertrain, a system that Toyota has improved on over the last several years.
The hybrid drivetrain is new for the Sequoia, but Toyota has a reputation for this mass-market vehicle to know that it, too, will be reliable if purchased and owned for the next few years. Click here to know more in-depth about the Toyota Sequoia’s reliability.
Maintenance and Repair Costs
When it comes to maintenance, the Toyota 4Runner is usually the easier option and generally has lower maintenance costs. The V6 engine of the 4Runner is tried and true, with minimal mechanical failure, and is simple with limited moving parts. The 4Runner is a maintenance-free vehicle, and repairs are easy, and for the most part, any mechanic can work on the 4Runner’s system.
The Toyota Sequoia, with a newer hybrid system, could incur slight additional maintenance costs over the lifespan of the vehicle. Hybrid repairs are specialty repairs and have components that could cost money to repair or replace (think batteries and electric motors). Although Toyota provides great engineering and reliability with extended hybrid warranties so the burden of long-term risk is less to the consumer.
Toyota Sequoia vs Toyota 4Runner Reliability Ratings
According to consumer reports and vehicle reliability publication databases, the 4Runner has always ranked at or near the top of the rankings for dependable mid-sized SUVs. Owners uniquely experience few problems, and satisfaction ratings, even on older models, are still high.
The Sequoia fares well in reliability publications. The 2025 Sequoia is still a newer vehicle, however, previous generations have done well. The new hybrid vehicle is expected to perform as well, just not in a long-term study.
Resale Value and Longevity
One more indicator of reliability is resale value. The 4Runner has a healthy resale value because of significant demand in the used vehicle market. Buyers understand that a 4Runner goes the distance! Planning to buy a used 4Runner? If yes, here is our guide on how to choose the perfect one.
The Sequoia also retains its value well, and newer hybrid models are especially valued. Families that need some beefy interior capacity and enthusiasts of large SUVs appreciate the amenities and capabilities of the Sequoia, which benefits resale, even after years of use.
Real-World Owner Feedback
Consumer feedback from Sequoia and 4Runner owners provides a practical perspective on the long-term operation of these vehicles. Feedback from the Sequoia and 4Runner owner community indicates that they could not be happier with their decision. Newer 4Runner drivers appreciate the plain, functional, and easy-service vehicle, and many report using their vehicles over ten years with little to no issues.
The Sequoia owner community also enjoys ownership of their vehicle, especially for interior comfort and towing capacity. Hybrid interface users of the newer Sequoia appreciated the potential savings and additional ride comfort versus combustion engines; however, some reported that they were waiting to see how the hybrid systems held up in the long run.
Final Thoughts!
When we talk about cars that last, Toyota SUVs like Sequoias and 4Runners are top picks. The 4Runner is known for being super reliable, tough, and cheap to keep. Take good care of one, and it’ll go over 200,000 miles with no problems.
The 4Runner impresses year after year with its simplistic engineering while sporting a reliable V6 engine.
On the other hand, Toyota, with the debut of the 2025 hybrid Sequoia, wanted to showcase its reliability in a larger, more technical SUV. In the end, it’s you who has to choose either an SUV based on your needs. We hope this guide will help you choose the best one.
Frequently Asked Questions
1: Is the Toyota Sequoia bigger than the 4Runner?
You can easily see the strong look-alike thing between the Toyota 4Runner and the Toyota Sequoia right away. It’s a big SUV – puts it on a whole different level than a midsize one.
2: Is the Toyota Sequoia a reliable SUV?
Yes, the Toyota Sequoia is bigger than the 4Runner. The Sequoia is longer, wider, and taller than the 4Runner. It also offers more interior space and seating for up to 8 people.
On the other hand, the 4Runner is smaller and easier to maneuver, especially in tight spaces or off-road.
3: Are Sequoias or 4Runners more reliable?
The 4Runner is generally considered to have more reliability due to its established history and uncomplicated V6. Sequoias can be reliable and have hybrid options, but those newer ones don’t have the same legacy there.
4: Why are there so few Toyota Sequoias?
There aren’t many Toyota Sequoias out there because they’re produced in limited numbers. Also, the Toyota Sequoia can be expected to show a large depreciation.
