Fans are mostly happy with next-gen 2023 Sequoia. Except for this one glaring missing feature.
I was recently fortunate enough to attend the world premiere of the all-new 2023 Toyota Sequoia. Capstone and TRD Pro were the two featured trim levels at the event.
The following morning, I was the first social media creator to get quality one-on-one time with both vehicles. The goal was to film a video for each for my “ToyotaJeff Reviews” YouTube channel.
Mission accomplished. You can find both videos in my Sequoias Playlist here.
The more important realization for me was that I walked away from the event with a solid conclusion.
I am a huge fan of 2023 Sequoia.
2023 Toyota Sequoia Specs
Toyota Sequoia 2023 will be offered with just one powertrain – i-FORCE MAX hybrid. The same 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 / electric motor combo found in 2022 Tundra. Look for power specs of 437 horsepower and 583 lb.-ft. torque.
Look for five different trim levels – again all grades we see in next-gen Tundra. Buyers can choose from SR5, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro, and Capstone.
VIDEO: My 1st review of 2023 Sequoia Capstone
I was shocked by the gorgeous exterior styling when 2023 Toyota Sequoia was first revealed. It is muscular and bold and sleek all wrapped up into one.
Interior styling is modern with plenty of new technology and safety features. I think we can all agree that interior cabin was the one area Toyota Sequoia needed updating the most.
2023 Sequoia Missing Feature
There will always be aspects of a new vehicle generation redesign that people will not like. With every bit of good comes some areas for improvement.
Viewers of my YouTube channel commented with their thoughts an opinions on Toyota Sequoia. I would say that 95% of them were positive and people are super excited about 2023 Sequoia styling and features.
Several people observed one missing feature and mentioned it, so I thought it would be interesting to see what you think about it too.
Viewer Sick Duck stated. “No rollable rear window glass is a deal breaker for me.”
“That rear window glass should have been able to be opened by a button in the driver’s side of the cabin and even have a button on the key fob for it.” Mentioned Hashim.
“I wish they kept the power sliding rear window.” Lamented Mark.
“I am ok with it, but my dog is upset there won’t be a power back window like in 4Runner.” Perry, you win for comment of the day. Please pass along our regards to your furry friend. Let’s assume his name is Grogu for now.
Time for Your 2023 Toyota Sequoia Comments
Yes, there is no power sliding rear window like we see in the current Toyota 4Runner. That would have been useful and convenient for both front and rear passengers.
However, the back glass can open without having to open the entire liftgate. This would be helpful for loading groceries, sports equipment, and camping gear.
Maybe we could call this a nice alternative to our first preference?
What are your thoughts and observations about all-new 2023 Toyota Sequoia? Do you currently own a Toyota Sequoia, and will you consider getting a new one when it is available sometime this summer?
Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story when I discuss changes coming to 2022 RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid.
READ MORE:
- See my 2022 Tundra 0-60 time
- RAV4 changes coming for 2022
- RAV4 Prime mpg tips from owners
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Comments
I don’t care about the
Josh (not verified) February 12, 2022 - 11:01AM
I don’t care about the sliding window. But the second row not sliding forward to allow the third row to slide forward to allow for actual cargo room, is a deal breaker. People want cargo room. They should make a sequoia XL. I may have to buy a suburban or Yukon xl now. Very upsetting since they said they listened to customers.
I agree with you. Keeping my
TImolyn Embry (not verified) December 6, 2022 - 1:09AM
In reply to I don’t care about the by Josh (not verified)
I agree with you. Keeping my old 2018 Sequoia!!! I want a bigger Sequoia! Not this thing that look like a Jeep Grand Cherokee!!! People with large families don’t want to buy two cars!!! Road trips are fun in the one I have. I use the second and third row for my older children and elderly mother. Toyota should listen to the American people and make something large and in charge for bigger families! And don’t make it look like the Tundra either. Make it one of a kind with strong motor, top of the class fuel economy and just 4 trims! You don’t need all the extra trims. Standard Limited Platinum and Executive
It's pretty impossible to
Rick (not verified) February 14, 2022 - 2:31PM
It's pretty impossible to build the perfect vehicle. And it's normal, that for every brand which updates a product, there will be a few owners of the previous model who will be upset. Or some who won't like one feature or another.
example: you can't have 3 rows of seats and room for dogs. but you can fold those rear seats (3rd row) and it'll be ok. Or buy the long wheelbase of the Ford/Lincoln or GM/GMC product of your choice.
Toyota could have built a long-wheelbase version but how many people would be buying it? The answer is: NOT many and they know that. GM/GMC and Ford/Lincoln are there to make you happy.
Overall, this is such a huge improvement over the decade-old (+) Sequoia that for whatever minor things that annoy a few...it is inconsequential.
I currently drive a 2019 Land
Melissa Holsinger (not verified) March 9, 2022 - 8:07AM
In reply to It's pretty impossible to by Rick (not verified)
I currently drive a 2019 Land Crusier and wondering if a dog crate can sit flat in the back of the cargo area with the tiered shelving of the 2023 Sequoia. This would be a deal breaker for me if the crates could not sit flat and safely remain intact. I have a lab and it’s big enough to fit comfortably in most full size SUV’s. Can you confirm a crate would work in the new Sequoia?
I have been waiting for this
ToyotaFailed (not verified) March 11, 2022 - 1:17PM
In reply to I currently drive a 2019 Land by Melissa Holsinger (not verified)
I have been waiting for this for a very long time. I absolutely do NOT want to buy a GMC/Chevy, Wagoneer, etc. But...the rear cargo configuration for this vehicle makes ZERO SENSE. The fact that the third row seats are not removable is a deal breaker. That joke of a cargo shelf is so incredibly laughable and in my opinion, a massive design failure on Toyota's part. I don't care if it's a hybrid and they needed room for the battery. Or that they wanted the third row to slide. My most frequent occupants of the rear cargo area are my dogs. There's no room for a crate, the level with that shelf is far too high, and I can't remove the third row seats for more headroom for them. It is such a stupid cargo design that it ruins the rest of what appears to be a very well designed vehicle. It doesn't matter if you have dogs or not, the decreased cargo volume for a vehicle this size (people buy these this size for a reason) is an absolute deal breaker. I love Toyotas. Like the Lexus GS 350 and the joy stick though...there's always one design blunder that ruins what is otherwise a fantastic package. I guess I'll be buying a Denali and that doesn't make me happy to say...but at least I'll have a comfortable space for my fur kids and room for more than just groceries. This was a massively missed opportunity for Toyota...people are literally craving a suitable competitor to what the domestic brands have to offer because their quality is so friggin' terrible. Yet because of this design WTF, people will still head to the other brands. Just stupid.
I feel you. It’s super
Joshua (not verified) March 13, 2022 - 12:22AM
In reply to I have been waiting for this by ToyotaFailed (not verified)
I feel you. It’s super annoying. I decided to get a 22 sienna XLE AWD instead. 36 mpg, and 10k less expensive. Gonna put a journey off-road 3” lift kit on it.
Why would I spent 80 grand so
Sequoiatoosmall (not verified) April 21, 2022 - 11:35AM
In reply to It's pretty impossible to by Rick (not verified)
Why would I spent 80 grand so something that doesn’t last, and losses 20k in value within the first year? Sequoia is a full size SUV, and designed to compete against expendition, yukon in the market. But it scarified everything after the driver’s seat to reduce cost and improve garagablity.
I have a 08 Sequoia Limited
KSM (not verified) February 14, 2022 - 3:53PM
I have a 08 Sequoia Limited 4x4 with 200K miles. Love its ride, power, comfort, interior layout flexibility and reliability. I really like the 23 model but have 4 reservations: 1) will its solid rear end will it ride and handle as well as the older version with independent suspension or worse? 2) with the newer solid rear end and hybrid battery placement is the third row seat a worse “knee in your chest” position or at least on par with the previous version? 3) not a fan of a fixed position second row captains seat - gives even less flexibility and looks like makes third row seat more limited in comfort and usability. 4) concerned that with the third row seat in the full up and back position it reduces the already small cargo space behind the 3rd row seat - is it less space than the outgoing version when seats are up and back:
I own a Sequoia currently and
Tara L Peterson (not verified) March 4, 2022 - 5:36PM
I own a Sequoia currently and usually put my 3rd row seats down so that my dogs can ride in the back...is this still an option?
The third row will lay down.
Josh (not verified) March 5, 2022 - 4:49PM
In reply to I own a Sequoia currently and by Tara L Peterson (not verified)
The third row will lay down. But it’s higher due to the battery under the third row - according to reports. I’ve watched every YouTube video on the new sequoia. Literally. The third row will have less head clearance and a sort of knee in chest affect. The second row being fixed will hurt the third row occupants as well since they slide forward “to allow for more cargo”. I believe the room behind the third row may be similar to the second gen. The 23 sequoia is 2” longer but it’s In the front - engine space is bigger and longer in the nose.
Gonna be only in hybrid also. That cost $3400 extra on the new tundra so expect the sequoia to start around $56k for an sr5 clothe seats rear wheel unless they go straight to leather ……
I agree with what "Toyota
Donald Von Lin… (not verified) March 14, 2022 - 3:28PM
I agree with what "Toyota Failed" wrote.. Toyota Blew It !! I Love Toyotas !!
I have a 2003 V6-4WD Highlander, I bought New, drive it everyday 70 miles plus it now has 380,000 Miles!! Greatest vehicle I ever owned, and I had alot !
So I bought a 2016 Limited Sequoia, New, Second greatest vehicle I ever owned,, But this new model first of all... it's UGLUY !!! That Horrendous, Gaudy Oversized Grille,and they made the Body style a "Square Box" like the competition. My Sequoia is Beautiful, with rounded fenders, quarter panels, wheel wells, windows, etc. Nice a "Curvy" like a Beautiful women. Also Toyota is now going backwards in Technology, by removing an independent rear suspension, and using a solid axle instead, just so they can advertise a higher towing capacity. but on the other hand, the competition, is upgrading to independent rear suspension, Chevy, GMC, Suburbans, Tohoes, etc. So they are sacrificing ride quality, and the fact they can't fold the 3rd row seats flat, into the floor ,because of the rear axle, the Cargo area just got ruined, with that ridiculous step shelve in the back. No more fully flat floor space. I can fold all my seats down, completely flat, and since I don't have the second row caption chair, I have 120 cubic inches of useable space.I can sleep back there, with plenty of room, nice and comfy, at 6'-1" Then they discontinue a proven, naturally aspired V8 drivetrain, for an overstressed V6 twin-turbo, trying to move a 6,000 lb. vehicle, doesn't make any sense, and don't let the gas mileage numbers fool you. Your not gonna do that much better, how you drive , matters more. I can get 20-21 m.p.g on the highway, in my Sequoia, IF I take it EASY. but when I start turning up 5,000 r.p.m's, I can get 10 m.p.g or less. Since Toyota built their reputation on Reliability, Durability, Longevity, etc. I can't see an overstressed V6 twin-turbo, pushing a 6,000 lb. vehicle, lasting 380,000 miles ,without expensive, maintenance, and repairs. I think I'll keep mine, forever, or until Toyota wakes-up !
I understand you can't meet
J (not verified) August 15, 2022 - 12:07PM
I understand you can't meet everyone's needs, but the only reason you wouldn't err on the side of caution when designing the sequoia with a lack of rear roll down window, and cramped interior, would be if there either a larger version planned, or the upcoming 4runner will be more offhand focused and therefore they expect some customers will be forced into the sequoia. Where things sit today, the new sequoia is in some awkward place between the current 4runner and previous sequoia generation where it is neither roomy enough for those who need it, nor as maneuverable as a smaller vehicle such as the 4runner which offers similar benefits. Could have been a great vehicle.
After considering a 2016 LX
Neil (not verified) August 17, 2022 - 12:07AM
After considering a 2016 LX 570, this seems to have the options I like in the Lexus but more off road potential and less ‘looks’ aka not quite as flashy/pretentious maybe? I know opinions a dime a dozen but the rear heated and cooled seats seemed similar ‘luxury’ like the lx, but my kids don’t need that. Ha. I like the captain chairs ease for 3rd row access and I bet this has better packaged new safety tech. Also wondering how the legs in 3rd row go for kids..the gx and that lx were not impressive vs say our Yukon . I wasn’t impressed with the LX lane keeping beep either. I’d rather a slight rattle/nudge from the steering. Not sure if this will do that but I’d think that tech is better now vs 6/7 years ago.
No rear retracting glass and
Disappointed (not verified) February 23, 2023 - 8:20AM
No rear retracting glass and the third row seat seems like a debacle, should fold flat. My two lab retrievers will have to keep my 2010
kept it on the Tundera, but
Too Bad (not verified) June 6, 2023 - 4:35PM
Kept it on the Tundra, but not on Seqoia...without the sliding rear window, why wouldn't I just get a Tahoe or Suburban? the long term ownership on those are cheaper too. Sequoia is very nice for now, but the other brands update faster and parts are way cheaper as they age. It was stupid for Toyota to skip this. talk about not knowing your customer... if they make the same mistake on the new 4runner, I will be very disappointed.
I LOVE the 1071 Edition trim…
KT (not verified) September 17, 2023 - 7:29PM
I LOVE the 1071 Edition trim and wish they would have it on the Sequoia's. That is the only reason I stuck with Fords King Ranch otherwise I would have switched to Toyota. Alot of my friends say the same. Hopefully that will be coming soon.
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I'm an automotive enthusiast with a deep knowledge of the industry, particularly in the realm of Toyota vehicles. I've closely followed the developments in the automotive world, including the latest models and their features. Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article about the 2023 Toyota Sequoia.
The article primarily focuses on the unveiling of the 2023 Toyota Sequoia, highlighting its features, specs, and fan reactions. Here are the key concepts covered:
-
2023 Toyota Sequoia Specs:
- The vehicle is equipped with a single powertrain: the i-FORCE MAX hybrid with a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 and an electric motor.
- Power specs include 437 horsepower and 583 lb.-ft. torque.
- Five trim levels are available: SR5, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro, and Capstone.
-
Exterior and Interior Styling:
- The article praises the Sequoia's exterior styling, describing it as muscular, bold, and sleek.
- Modern interior styling with new technology and safety features is emphasized.
-
Missing Feature - Rear Sliding Window:
- Despite positive feedback, the article mentions a missing feature that several viewers noted: the absence of a rollable rear window glass.
- Viewer comments express disappointment about the lack of a power sliding rear window, with some suggesting it as a deal-breaker.
-
Viewer Reactions and Comments:
- The article highlights viewer comments expressing excitement about the 2023 Sequoia's styling and features.
- Specific comments mention the absence of a power sliding rear window and the impact on user preferences, especially for pet owners.
-
Concerns and Deal-Breakers:
- Some users express concerns about the second-row not sliding forward to allow for increased cargo room, making it a potential deal-breaker.
- The fixed position of the second-row captains' seats is mentioned as a drawback.
-
Comparison and Alternative Choices:
- Comparison with other vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner and the need for a larger Sequoia XL model are discussed.
- Some users consider alternative options like GMC/Chevy, Wagoneer, or Suburban due to specific design preferences.
-
Cargo Configuration and Third-Row Seating:
- Users express concerns about the new cargo configuration, specifically the inability to fold the third-row seats flat.
- Questions about the suitability of the cargo area for carrying items like dog crates are raised.
-
Mixed Reactions and Potential Improvements:
- While there are concerns, some users appreciate the back glass's ability to open without lifting the entire liftgate.
- The article suggests this could be seen as a reasonable alternative to a power sliding rear window.
This overview covers the major points discussed in the article. If you have specific questions or would like more details on any aspect, feel free to ask.
