2023 Toyota 4Runner vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, a continuation of its second generation, showcased a mature design that had remained largely unchanged since its last major overhaul in 2008. Despite its age, the Sequoia maintained a classic and tasteful exterior, with a modestly sized grille and elegant wheel arches. Its dimensions were substantial, standing at 1,956 millimetres tall, 2,030 mm wide, and 5,210 mm long, with a wheelbase of 3,099 mm. The SUV's interior, however, felt dated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen that seemed out of place in a market dominated by larger, more modern displays. Nevertheless, the Sequoia's interior was built with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and comfort for families.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition (40 ASE) embraced a retro aesthetic with its heritage grille design, bronze 17-inch wheels, and distinctive body stripes. This special edition, based on the SR5 trim, offered a unique blend of nostalgia and modernity. The 4Runner's truck-based design gave it an enduring appeal, with a purposeful interior that, despite its plastic components, felt solid and of quality. The controls were straightforward and user-friendly, even when wearing gloves. The 4Runner's interior was practical, with comfortable seating and ample storage, although the third-row seat option was best avoided due to its impact on cargo space.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a robust 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, offering a reliable and durable powertrain. The Sequoia's truck roots provided a payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms. Despite its hefty weight of around 2,721.5 kilograms, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction and four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension. However, its fuel consumption ratings were less impressive, with 18.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 13.9 on the highway.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured a 4.0-litre V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. It came with a five-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, offering a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. The 4Runner's fuel economy was rated at 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The SUV boasted 24.4 centimetres of ground clearance and a range of off-roading technologies, including a locking rear differential and Crawl Control. While the 4Runner excelled in off-road conditions, its on-road performance was less refined, with leisurely acceleration and heavy steering. Nevertheless, it handled elevation changes and gentle bends with ease, showcasing its truck-like capabilities.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows with ample headroom and legroom. It featured three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and heated front seats. The Sequoia's cargo space was generous, with 535 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,886 litres with the third row folded, and a massive 3,401 litres with both the second and third rows down. The interior provided numerous storage options, including a large centre console and door pockets.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner offered a unique feature with its power-down rear window, enhancing ventilation and providing an open-air experience. The interior was comfortable, with dual-zone climate control and various storage locations, although some lacked rubber liners. The second-row seating was roomy, with good legroom and USB charging ports. The optional third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space, which was otherwise substantial at 1,337 litres behind the second row. The cargo area included storage cubbies and a 120-volt AC power outlet, making it practical for outdoor adventures.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology was outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen. However, it offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity as standard. Higher trims added navigation and a JBL premium audio system. The Sequoia's exterior lighting was fully LED, and it featured a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner's technology was similarly traditional, with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio, with available upgrades for navigation and a JBL sound system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and buttons, and the voice recognition performed well. Despite its dated graphics, the system's functionality was appreciated by those who preferred simplicity.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, but it was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, including pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. It also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a comprehensive suite of airbags and safety systems.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner included Toyota Safety Sense, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard across all trims. However, the 4Runner's crash-test ratings were less favourable, with a four-star overall rating from NHTSA and a Marginal rating from IIHS for driver protection in certain tests.