The Good
The 2016 Sequoia boasts impressive performance with its strong V8 engine and robust towing capacity, appealing to practical buyers needing utility. Toyota's legendary reliability offers peace of mind. Comfort is prioritized with a spacious interior and smooth ride, while the bold, truck-like design provides a sense of security and capability. Although efficiency isn't its forte, its longevity makes it a decent value proposition.
The Bad
The 2016 Sequoia's main weaknesses are its poor fuel economy compared to newer SUVs and its outdated technology. The interior design, while functional, lacks the sophistication of some competitors. Watch out for potential rust issues, especially in regions with harsh winters. Repair costs can be higher than average due to the vehicle's size and complexity. Check for transmission issues, though rare, during a pre-purchase inspection.
2016 Toyota Sequoia: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 5.7L V8
- Horsepower: 381 hp @ 5600 rpm
- Torque: 401 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
- Fuel Economy: 13 mpg city / 17 mpg highway (EPA estimates)
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 6.7 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,400 lbs (depending on configuration)
- Trim-Level Features:
- SR5: Cloth upholstery, eight-passenger seating, tri-zone automatic climate control, Entune Audio system with a 6.1-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, USB port, rearview camera, roof rack, running boards, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Available options include leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a sunroof.
- Limited: Leather upholstery, heated front seats, power-folding third-row seats, a premium JBL sound system, a 7-inch touchscreen display, navigation, and 20-inch alloy wheels. Also includes all SR5 features (or available options).
- Platinum: Adaptive air suspension, rear-seat DVD entertainment system with a 9-inch display, heated and ventilated front seats, power-folding side mirrors, and a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert. Includes features from SR5 and Limited trims.
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
2016 Toyota Sequoia Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Sequoia |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4WD 5.7-Liter |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | PRINCETON |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 5985 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 7300 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.7-L V-8 |
| Engine Size | 5.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $45,325 |
| Invoice Price | $41,247 |
| Delivery Charges | $995 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 Toyota Sequoia Have?
Recalls for the 2016 Sequoia have been relatively limited. It's important to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any open recalls related to your specific VIN. Common areas for Toyota recalls in general can include airbag inflators or fuel pump issues, but it is important to look at specific VINs. Long-term reliability concerns are minimal if proper maintenance is followed. However, deferred maintenance can lead to more significant and costly repairs down the road. Regular oil changes, fluid checks, and inspections are crucial for long-term reliability.
How long will the 2016 Toyota Sequoia last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features are limited compared to modern vehicles. The Platinum trim offers a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert. Safety features include standard stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and a suite of airbags (front, side, and curtain).
Optional features included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof (available on SR5 and Limited), and adaptive cruise control (Limited and Platinum).
Crash test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) should be consulted for specific performance scores. Keep in mind that crash test methodologies have evolved over time, making direct comparisons to newer vehicles challenging. However, the Sequoia's size and weight generally provide a level of inherent crash protection.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2016 Toyota Sequoia Prices and Market Value
2016 Toyota Sequoia Cost of Ownership
2016 Toyota Sequoia Fuel Efficiency
2016 Toyota Sequoia Safety Rating
IIHS
2016 Toyota Sequoia Recalls & Defects
Wheels:lugs/Nuts/Bolts/studs
Steering:rack and Pinion
Steering:hydraulic Power Assist System
Steering:rack and Pinion
Steering:hydraulic Power Assist System
2016 Toyota Sequoia Warranty
Rust
Drivetrain
Basic
Free Maintenance
2016 Toyota Sequoia Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 Toyota Sequoia Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Alternatives to the 2016 Sequoia include:
- Ford Expedition: Offers better fuel economy (EcoBoost engine) and updated technology, but reliability can be a concern for some model years.
- Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban: More modern interiors and features, but may not match the Sequoia's long-term reliability.
- Nissan Armada: Often a more affordable option, but with less brand recognition and potentially lower resale value.
For those prioritizing reliability and towing capacity over the latest technology, the Sequoia remains a strong contender. If fuel economy and advanced features are paramount, the Expedition or Tahoe/Suburban might be better choices.
Ranks #83 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 83 | 2016 Toyota Sequoia | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Toyota Sequoia a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
Chance2jump on December 23, 2024
I have owned a lot of trucks in my life, and I am a loyalI have owned a lot of trucks in my life, and I am a loyal Toyota fan. The Sequoia was my first half ton Toyota truck. Purchased my 2016 Sequoia SR5 used in 2021 at 81,000. It is now a week away from 2025 and 156,000. This truck is a beast and I love it. Purchased to haul the family around and tow a small horse trailer. I couldn't be happier with her. Tons of leg room, incredible reliability, comfortable for long trips, tows like it's her business, and she never disappoints. We have only needed to invest typical maintenance / upkeep expenses and tires. Sure, the gas mileage could be better, but it's the expected gas mileage for comparable engines across all manufacturers. The only annoying thing is the Toyota 'rattle' that is common with several models. The license plate sometimes rattles and the noise is annoying (throw some foam strips under the license plate to fix). The 2016 model year is a solid truck.
ForSure45 on January 29, 2024
BestSequoias are like a pot of gold. I feel lucky to own two. Can’t wait for my third someday. Power, comfort, reliability. Sequoia owner for life.
Drew A on August 24, 2022
Great QualitySo glad that I purchased a 2016 Toyota Sequoia. Smooth and quiet drive and a great family vehicle. Only downfall is the gas mileage... Everything else is worth the price.
LB on August 20, 2020
Most comfortable and reliable car I've ever owned.We bought this vehicle because we love Toyota and have always had luck with Toyota cars. The space is great for my teenage boys and we have loved owning this vehicle!
Gary Green on December 12, 2019
This is an amazing machine. lots of technology. tSmoothest most responsive vehicle. I love the turning radius. Live interior it has everything. Mainly impressed with its towing ability. Wish it got better gas mileage.
FoxPointJayhawk on September 22, 2019
Most comfortable fully loaded SUV I've drivenWith DVD player and captain seats in the 2nd row and a full 3rd row, this SUV is super comfortable for 4 large men on a golf trip or for a family on a driving vacation. The mileage is primarily highway miles and the SUV has been garaged since it's purchase new from the dealer.
Darius on May 13, 2019
Toyota Reliability.I normally change / swap cars between 9 to 14 months. Some how, I am just not able to part with my existing 2016 Sequoia Plat. I still have it. It has done approx 35K. In recent past I have test driven some many other vehicles (SUV, CUV, Trucks) However, since I have purchased the Sequoia in Oct 2016....None of the test driven vehicles have been able to change my mind....I am just sold on my existing 2016 Sequoia.. Not once has the Sequoia let me down...All I do is religiously change the engine oil every 8K. The only shortfall I think of is the gas. If gas consumption is not a bothering factor...just go for this truck blindly. Specially the Sequoia is more apprecaited, tested and enjoyed in the Canadian winter..Well that is my personal opinion. Thank you Toyota, for making such a great truck.
ytorres on May 13, 2019
We love it.lots of legroom and luxury details, very comfortable and great audio, can seat up to 8 people which works for us, very smooth ride and maneuverability
Tmoney on January 4, 2019
The Sequoia Tradition is Alive!I have owned a couple of SUVS (Tahoe, Cayenne, and X5), but none of those fit our family needs and ended up in the shop often... Enter the Toyota Sequoia. The first one I purchased was a 2005 SR5 which had all the high end options: leather, sunroof, 4WD, towing package (Navigation and DVD excluded). At 180,000 the car was going strong and unfortunately ended up in a wreck. Everyone survived and rear airbags did their job all the way to the 3rd row. Upon searching for a new car, we went on Test Drove other brands (maintenance were a concern) and decided on the trusted Sequoia(2016) and it has the 5.7 Liter Engine. I moved 1/5 of our home using a trailer and the truck towed easily with very good fuel economy. Leather Seats were added(they are heated) and I love it! Great safety features, strong brakes, sits high, sweet acceleration for a car this size and quiet on the highway! I enjoy jumping into the car and bluetooth recognizes my phone quickly. Yes, the Sequoia Tradition is Re-Invented in some aspects but it is still alive! You cannot go wrong here:) Buy with confidence!
Wbjones on February 26, 2018
Most reliable truck for the moneyGreat quality needs some upgrading just a little out dated from the old tundra.needs a good towing package to haul as much as the tundra.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.