The 2026 Toyota Sequoia, Toyota’s flagship full-size SUV, continues to build on its rugged legacy with a series of targeted updates for the new model year. While not a full mid-cycle refresh, these changes enhance the Sequoia’s premium appeal, comfort, and style, keeping it competitive in a segment dominated by rivals like the Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition. With its standard i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain and truck-based DNA, the 2026 Sequoia blends efficiency, power, and off-road capability with thoughtful upgrades for 2026.
Exterior Enhancements
The most eye-catching update for 2026 is the introduction of a new TRD Pro-exclusive exterior color, Wave Maker. This vibrant aquamarine blue, reminiscent of ‘90s aesthetics, adds a playful, beach-ready vibe to the off-road-focused TRD Pro trim, aligning it with other Toyota TRD Pro models like the Tundra and 4Runner. The rest of the Sequoia lineup carries over its bold, chunky styling, maintaining its commanding presence on and off the road. No major design changes are noted, preserving the Sequoia’s distinctive look introduced in its 2023 redesign.
Interior Upgrades
Inside, Toyota focuses on elevating luxury and convenience. The range-topping Capstone trim now features Shale Premium Textured leather-trimmed seats, adding an upscale touch with a sophisticated grey-brown color scheme. The Limited trim steps up from SofTex synthetic leather to genuine leather upholstery, available in black with white contrast stitching or grey with black stitching, enhancing both comfort and aesthetics. A significant functional upgrade is the standardization of power-folding third-row seats across all trims, a feature previously unavailable on the base SR5, making cargo management easier for families and adventurers. Additionally, the 1794, Platinum, and Capstone trims now offer standard 10-way power-adjustable front seats with integrated massage functions, prioritizing driver and passenger comfort.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2026 Sequoia retains its potent i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, combining a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor to deliver 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it offers up to 9,520 pounds of towing capacity, outpacing competitors like the Tahoe. Fuel economy remains impressive for the class, with EPA estimates of 21/24 mpg city/highway for rear-wheel-drive models. The TRD Pro and optional TRD Off-Road package continue to bolster off-road prowess with features like an electronically locking rear differential and Multi-Terrain Monitor.
Technology and Pricing
The 2026 Sequoia integrates Toyota’s latest multimedia system, with an 8-inch or optional 14-inch touchscreen, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 remains standard, offering advanced driver-assistance features. Pricing starts at $66,120 for the SR5, a modest $1,600 increase over 2025, with higher trims like the Capstone approaching $85,000. The 2026 Sequoia is expected to hit dealerships by fall 2025.
These updates, while subtle, reinforce the Sequoia’s position as a versatile, powerful, and increasingly luxurious full-size SUV, appealing to those seeking hybrid efficiency without sacrificing capability