2020 Toyota Sequoia: One More Go Before a Complete Makeover

The Toyota Sequoia hasn’t had any major updates for ages. In fact, the current generation dates back to 2008 and it’s now largely eclipsed by the entire competition.

Is the Japanese automaker leaving its full-size SUV to rot? It might look like it, but in reality a completely new model is coming for 2021.

With that in mind, why should customers spend any money on a 2020 Toyota Sequoia, which yesterday went on sale across Canada? For starters, there’s a new TRD Pro model similar to the 4Runner, Tacoma and Tundra. Unveiled back in February at the Chicago Auto Show, it will make off-road enthusiasts happier.

Photo: Toyota

Included are 18-inch forged alloy wheels, 2.5-inch Fox internal bypass shocks, Rigid Industries fog lamps, a “TOYOTA” heritage grille design, a TRD shift knob, a tube-style roof rack, unique TRD Pro carpet mats and a power liftgate, among other things.

The 2020 Sequoia continues to rely on a 5.7-litre V8 engine generating 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque, which allows owners to tow up to 3,220 kilograms (7,100 pounds). Incidentally, every Sequoia is factory-fitted with a tow package featuring a heavy-duty tow hitch receiver, four- and seven-pin connectors, a supplemental transmission cooler and a transmission fluid temperature gauge.

The convenient one-touch 4WD system is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that offers a sequential shift mode. And for the first time, Toyota’s Smart Key system with push-button start is now standard equipment on all trim levels.

Photo: Toyota

The spacious interior can accommodate seven or eight adults depending on the configuration. Despite the ageing nature of the Sequoia, you’ll still find modern technologies like a seven-inch touchscreen, advanced voice recognition, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, plus Toyota Connected Services allowing you to monitor and control the vehicle remotely.

Let’s not forget the Toyota Safety Sense P suite of active safety technologies including a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams and adaptive cruise Control.

Here are pricing details for the 2020 Toyota Sequoia (excluding freight and delivery):

  • Sequoia SR5 - $63,290
  • Sequoia TRD Sport - $68,600
  • Sequoia TRD Pro - $78,950
  • Sequoia Limited - $69,790
  • Sequoia Platinum - $78,790
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