2024 Toyota Sequoia vs 2025 Acura ADX

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia shared its platform with the Tundra pickup, and this connection was evident in its design cues, such as hexagonal grilles, wheel arches, and strong fender creases. The exterior colour significantly influenced its appearance, with the Capstone model featuring more chrome brightwork. Our tester, in Celestial Silver, appeared somewhat dated, reminiscent of a "cop car." Inside, the Sequoia closely resembled the Tundra and other Toyota vehicles, with a blocky, geometric dash layout and physical controls for volume and climate. The Capstone trim boasted semi-aniline leather upholstery, while other trims offered SofTex leatherette or standard leather. Power-adjustable front seats were standard across the lineup, and all models included a power-tilt and -slide moonroof, with an upgraded panoramic version available on higher trims.

The 2025 Acura ADX, while sharing its shape with the Honda HR-V, showcased distinct Acura styling. Its large pentagonal grille with diamond-patterned mesh stood out, complemented by LED lighting and sporty rear features like vent-like creases and dual exhaust outlets. The ADX came with standard 18-inch wheels, with 19-inch options for A-Spec trims. Six exterior colours were available, with the Platinum Elite A-Spec trim offering Milano Red and Adriatic Sea Blue. Inside, the ADX exuded Acura's premium feel, with leatherette seating and microsuede accents in higher trims. The A-Spec tester featured a red interior, adding a touch of luxury. The cabin's shiny black trim had a subtle texture, reducing glare and fingerprints. Overall, the ADX impressed with its premium look and feel, meeting expectations for an Acura SUV.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia was exclusively available in a hybrid format, utilizing Toyota's iForce MAX hybrid powertrain. This system combined a twin-turbo V6 engine with an electric motor, delivering 427 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, surpassing its V8 predecessor. Fuel economy improved significantly, with a rating of 11.7 L/100 km combined with 4WD. The Sequoia featured standard 4WD in Canada, with a part-time system offering 4Hi, 4Lo, and 2WD options. TRD Pro models included a skid plate, and the 10-speed automatic transmission operated smoothly. The SR5 TRD Off-Road model catered to adventure-seekers with unique tires, off-road suspension, and driver-assist features like Crawl Control and hill-descent control. The Sequoia's maximum towing capacity was 4,137 kilograms, with towing-related upgrades available.

The 2025 Acura ADX came standard with AWD and a 1.5-litre VTEC turbo four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. While not the most powerful in its class, it was adequate for the ADX's size. The ADX's fuel economy matched competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 and BMW X1 at 8.5 L/100 km combined. The ADX offered four drive modes: Sport, Normal, Comfort, and Snow, adjusting engine response, steering feel, and cabin sound. The Platinum Elite A-Spec trim added an Individual mode for personalized settings. Visibility was excellent, and noise cancellation measures were effective. While not a hybrid, the ADX's performance was sufficient for everyday tasks and occasional fun on twisty roads.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia featured automatic power-deploying running boards, aiding shorter individuals in entering the vehicle. Cargo space was generous, with a maximum of 2,460 litres with both second- and third-row seats folded. Behind the second row, it offered 1,387 litres, and behind the third row, it ranged from 325 to 631 litres. The third-row seats, positioned above the hybrid powertrain's battery pack, did not create a flat load floor when folded. Headroom was slightly reduced, with 995 mm in the front, 952 to 975 mm in the middle, and 904 mm in the back. Legroom varied, with 713 to 855 mm in the third row, 995 mm in the second row, and 1,041 mm in the front. Second-row captain's chairs were available in higher trims, providing comfort but lacking bolstering.

The 2025 Acura ADX offered a premium interior with leatherette seating surfaces and microsuede accents in higher trims. The steering wheel was heated and leather-wrapped, with a sportier shape for A-Spec models. Heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver's seat were standard, with front-seat ventilation and power adjustments for the front passenger in A-Spec trims. The Platinum Elite A-Spec added driver's seat memory. The ADX provided ample headroom and legroom, with 979 mm of headroom and 1,065 mm of legroom in the front. Rear seat legroom was 958 mm, surpassing competitors like the Audi Q3 and BMW X1. Cargo space measured 690 litres behind the rear seats, or 1,560 litres with them retracted. A power tailgate with a walkaway close feature was standard, along with dual-zone climate control and rear-seat vents.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia's Capstone trim was equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, accessible through an 8-inch touchscreen on the SR5 trim and a 14-inch screen on higher trims. The Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system prioritized functionality over flashiness. A full-colour 12.3-inch driver information display was standard across all trims. The Panoramic View monitor was standard on Platinum and Capstone trims, aiding in maneuvering the large vehicle. A 10-inch colour head-up display was standard on Capstone, and a 14-speaker JBL Premium Audio system was available on Limited and standard on Platinum and Capstone.

The 2025 Acura ADX featured standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wi-fi hotspot capability, and a wireless phone charging pad. A nine-inch centre infotainment screen and a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster were standard. The touchscreen interface was user-friendly, and a physical volume knob was appreciated. Bluetooth, two front-row USB-C ports, and an eight-speaker Acura-branded sound system were standard. A-Spec models added two rear USB-C ports, while the Platinum Elite A-Spec trim included Alexa Built-In, Google Built-In, HD Radio, and a 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system with the "beosonic" app for sound customization.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia came with the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 2.5 suite of safety and driver-assistance features as standard. This included a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure alert with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, and road-sign recognition. Front and rear parking sensors with automatic braking and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. The only optional driver aid was a trailer backup guide with Straight-Path Assist, available on Platinum and Capstone trims. The Sequoia had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the similar Toyota Tundra earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS.

The 2025 Acura ADX featured nearly all safety and advanced driver-assistance features as standard, with the only option being a surround-view camera system on the Platinum Elite A-Spec. The AcuraWatch suite included adaptive cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, a blind-spot information system, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The ADX had not been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the Honda HR-V's high ratings were promising. Acura aimed for similar safety accolades for the ADX.