The Good
The 2021 Sequoia boasts strong performance thanks to its V8 engine and exceptional reliability, appealing to practical buyers. It offers a comfortable ride and spacious interior for families. The rugged design and off-road capabilities, particularly in the TRD trims, can emotionally appeal to adventure seekers. While not the most efficient, it provides good value due to its longevity.
The Bad
The 2021 Sequoia's weaknesses include its dated design, poor fuel economy compared to newer rivals, and a less refined interior. The infotainment system feels outdated. Watch out for rust, especially in areas with harsh winters. The third-row seating and cargo space, while ample, aren't class-leading for such a large vehicle.
2021 Toyota Sequoia: Quick Overview
- Engine: 5.7-liter V8
- Horsepower: 381 hp @ 5600 rpm
- Torque: 401 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
- Fuel Economy:
- City: 13 mpg
- Highway: 17 mpg
- Combined: 14 mpg
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 6.7 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,400 lbs (depending on configuration)
- Trim-Level Features:
- SR5: Standard features include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, tri-zone automatic climate control, and Toyota Safety Sense P.
- TRD Sport: Adds sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior styling, and TRD badging.
- Limited: Includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and a larger 9-inch touchscreen.
- Platinum: Offers perforated leather seats (heated and ventilated in the front), rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, and an electronically controlled air suspension.
- TRD Pro: Designed for off-road enthusiasts, featuring FOX shocks, a front skid plate, a roof rack, and unique TRD Pro styling elements.
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
2021 Toyota Sequoia Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2021 |
| 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 | 5-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 3628.74 kg |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | 8 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3UR-FE |
| Engine Size | 5.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 6 Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2021 Toyota Sequoia Have?
While recalls specifically targeting the 2021 model are less common, it's important to check the NHTSA website for any updates. Older Sequoia models have had recalls related to airbags and fuel pumps, so ensuring these have been addressed on used models is vital. Long-term reliability concerns often center around the aging transmission and potential for increased maintenance costs as the vehicle accumulates higher mileage. The infotainment system, while functional, is considered dated by modern standards and may require aftermarket upgrades for newer features. The Sequoia’s robust frame and drivetrain, however, contribute to its overall longevity, and many owners report trouble-free operation well beyond 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
How long will the 2021 Toyota Sequoia last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features include eight airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. While the NHTSA and IIHS may not have performed full crash tests on the 2021 model specifically, previous years of the Sequoia have generally received acceptable safety ratings, although its age shows in some areas compared to newer designs. The focus is more on preventative safety measures rather than advanced crash protection. The Limited and Platinum trims include parking sensors for added convenience. The TRD Pro includes off-road focused technology like skid plates and specialized suspension.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2021 Toyota Sequoia Prices and Market Value
2021 Toyota Sequoia Cost of Ownership
2021 Toyota Sequoia Fuel Efficiency
2021 Toyota Sequoia Safety Rating
NHTSA
2021 Toyota Sequoia Recalls & Defects
Steering:rack and Pinion
Steering:hydraulic Power Assist System
Steering:rack and Pinion
Steering:hydraulic Power Assist System
2021 Toyota Sequoia Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2021 Toyota Sequoia Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Alternatives to consider include: the Ford Expedition, which offers better fuel economy and more modern features; the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, known for their spacious interiors; and the Nissan Armada, providing a balance of reliability and value. If reliability is the top priority and you don't need the latest technology, the Sequoia remains a viable option. However, for a more modern and fuel-efficient SUV, the Expedition or Tahoe/Suburban might be better choices.
Ranks #54 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★) |
| 54 | 2021 Toyota Sequoia | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2021 Toyota Sequoia a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
Toyota fanatic on October 11, 2022
What the 100 series should have beenWe recently sold our 100 series land Cruiser and while we absolutely loved it while we owned it. I have to say that our 2021 limited Sequoia is everything that our 100 series LC should have been. Sure I miss how amazingly over built and reliable our LC was and not to mention the status quo of owning a LC. But the pleasure of having room to fit the entire family, 2 dogs and all of the gear we need for family outings, we simply could not get with our 100 series. The Sequoia even has features our LC didn't. Its cavernous inside, ridiculously comfortable and more cost effective to maintain than the LC. The Sequoia has the same Toyota reliability and V8 power as a LC and towing capacity is more than adequate for our needs. The Sequoia has just enough electronics to meet our needs without all the doodads we don't care for. The Sequoia interior for us, is the perfect combination of luxury, functionality and simplicity. We yearn for the days when 4wd's were 4wd's and didn't cost as much as a down payment on a house. The LC believe it or not got the same MPG roughly than our Sequoia does now and its lifted on 35's. The Sequoia has the almost the same 4wd system as the LC and trust me when I say the Sequoia has gone everywhere our LC has taken us. We are Toyota fanatics who presently own a 4runner and a Tacoma and have owned previous generations of both platforms. The Sequoia simply checked all the boxes for our family needs and at $30,000 or $40,000 less than a 200 series LC (USED). Our 2021 Sequoia is the best Toyota product we have ever purchased for our family and hands down the best bang for our buck, especially with inflated car prices.
OC Tester on June 18, 2022
Reliability, reliability, reliabilityWhen we bought, our three most important factors were reliability, reliability, and reliability. (We have owned a 2006 Sequoia, bought new, and we are keeping). Both vehicles 'only' get 18MPG on the road, ~~~14MPG in town. But both are very comfortable, safe, AND RELIABLE. (Low cost of maintenance/repairs are a big plus, too.)
Lake Girl on May 29, 2021
Toyota is hands down the most reliable vehicle!Love the room, especially the storage space of the Sequoia as well as the dependability. It is, in my opinion, the most reliable vehicle on the roads! I went from Sequoia to Lexus GX to Dodge Longhorn to Audi Q8 all within 5 years yet Toyota Sequoia has won me back for my life,
Gammy Ride on May 13, 2021
Gammy RideLOVE THIS CAR!! Love the look and the smooth ride. Love that the grand babies love the platinum package with the Blu Ray and premium sound we sound like a traveling theater.
Toyota fanatic on October 11, 2022
What the 100 series should have beenWe recently sold our 100 series land Cruiser and while we absolutely loved it while we owned it. I have to say that our 2021 limited Sequoia is everything that our 100 series LC should have been. Sure I miss how amazingly over built and reliable our LC was and not to mention the status quo of owning a LC. But the pleasure of having room to fit the entire family, 2 dogs and all of the gear we need for family outings, we simply could not get with our 100 series. The Sequoia even has features our LC didn't. Its cavernous inside, ridiculously comfortable and more cost effective to maintain than the LC. The Sequoia has the same Toyota reliability and V8 power as a LC and towing capacity is more than adequate for our needs. The Sequoia has just enough electronics to meet our needs without all the doodads we don't care for. The Sequoia interior for us, is the perfect combination of luxury, functionality and simplicity. We yearn for the days when 4wd's were 4wd's and didn't cost as much as a down payment on a house. The LC believe it or not got the same MPG roughly than our Sequoia does now and its lifted on 35's. The Sequoia has the almost the same 4wd system as the LC and trust me when I say the Sequoia has gone everywhere our LC has taken us. We are Toyota fanatics who presently own a 4runner and a Tacoma and have owned previous generations of both platforms. The Sequoia simply checked all the boxes for our family needs and at $30,000 or $40,000 less than a 200 series LC (USED). Our 2021 Sequoia is the best Toyota product we have ever purchased for our family and hands down the best bang for our buck, especially with inflated car prices.
OC Tester on June 18, 2022
Reliability, reliability, reliabilityWhen we bought, our three most important factors were reliability, reliability, and reliability. (We have owned a 2006 Sequoia, bought new, and we are keeping). Both vehicles 'only' get 18MPG on the road, ~~~14MPG in town. But both are very comfortable, safe, AND RELIABLE. (Low cost of maintenance/repairs are a big plus, too.)
Lake Girl on May 29, 2021
Toyota is hands down the most reliable vehicle!Love the room, especially the storage space of the Sequoia as well as the dependability. It is, in my opinion, the most reliable vehicle on the roads! I went from Sequoia to Lexus GX to Dodge Longhorn to Audi Q8 all within 5 years yet Toyota Sequoia has won me back for my life,
Gammy Ride on May 13, 2021
Gammy RideLOVE THIS CAR!! Love the look and the smooth ride. Love that the grand babies love the platinum package with the Blu Ray and premium sound we sound like a traveling theater.
Toyota fanatic on October 11, 2022
What the 100 series should have beenWe recently sold our 100 series land Cruiser and while we absolutely loved it while we owned it. I have to say that our 2021 limited Sequoia is everything that our 100 series LC should have been. Sure I miss how amazingly over built and reliable our LC was and not to mention the status quo of owning a LC. But the pleasure of having room to fit the entire family, 2 dogs and all of the gear we need for family outings, we simply could not get with our 100 series. The Sequoia even has features our LC didn't. Its cavernous inside, ridiculously comfortable and more cost effective to maintain than the LC. The Sequoia has the same Toyota reliability and V8 power as a LC and towing capacity is more than adequate for our needs. The Sequoia has just enough electronics to meet our needs without all the doodads we don't care for. The Sequoia interior for us, is the perfect combination of luxury, functionality and simplicity. We yearn for the days when 4wd's were 4wd's and didn't cost as much as a down payment on a house. The LC believe it or not got the same MPG roughly than our Sequoia does now and its lifted on 35's. The Sequoia has the almost the same 4wd system as the LC and trust me when I say the Sequoia has gone everywhere our LC has taken us. We are Toyota fanatics who presently own a 4runner and a Tacoma and have owned previous generations of both platforms. The Sequoia simply checked all the boxes for our family needs and at $30,000 or $40,000 less than a 200 series LC (USED). Our 2021 Sequoia is the best Toyota product we have ever purchased for our family and hands down the best bang for our buck, especially with inflated car prices.
OC Tester on June 18, 2022
Reliability, reliability, reliabilityWhen we bought, our three most important factors were reliability, reliability, and reliability. (We have owned a 2006 Sequoia, bought new, and we are keeping). Both vehicles 'only' get 18MPG on the road, ~~~14MPG in town. But both are very comfortable, safe, AND RELIABLE. (Low cost of maintenance/repairs are a big plus, too.)
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.