2023 Toyota Sequoia Production Has Begun!
Toyota invested $391 million in the San Antonio-based Toyota Texas plant where they exclusively produce both the Tundra and Sequoia.
Named after one of the world’s tallest, largest, and rarest trees on the planet, the Toyota Sequoia demands attention. Adding to the commanding aura, Toyota Texas has announced the start of production for the 2023 model year. Made exclusively deep in the heart of Texas, customers can expect to see Sequoias at dealerships as soon as next month.
As previously reported, Toyota’s largest SUV is finally going green with an all-new hybrid powertrain dubbed i-FORCE MAX. The powertrain — which we’ve experienced during our Tundra TRD Pro review — combines a 3.5L twin-turbocharged V6 gas engine with an electric motor taking the place of a torque converter inside the transmission. Making 437 horsepower and 583 lb. ft. of torque, it’s an engine that’s as efficient as it is powerful. Built on the same body-on-frame platform as the Tundra, the suspension, braking, steering and aesthetics are pleasantly identical.
“The third-generation Sequoia marks a new era of electrified vehicles that will help move us closer to carbon neutrality while delivering on and exceeding customer expectations for this iconic SUV,” said president of Toyota Texas, Kevin Voelkel. “Our team members are beyond proud to add the Sequoia to our Texas-built production line-up and take on new challenges as we deliver vehicles that customers love and fit their lifestyles.”
Finally, Americans can help themselves to a large SUV that can tow an impressive amount, tackle the toughest terrain, and reduce its carbon footprints all with a single tank of gas. Toyota says the new Sequoia possesses Lexus-like comfort and luxury from the inside out, but boasts more rugged looks compared to the lavish LX 600.
Capstone Trim Level to be Offered on New Sequoia
Exclusive to cars assembled at Toyota Texas is the Capstone model, featuring exciting exterior, interior and functional upgrades. Superseding the 1794 and TRD Pro models, it’s the highest tier for Toyota. With fancy iFORCE MAX badges, semi-aniline leather trimmed seats, and a Capstone-only black and white color combination for the interior. Additionally, it’s the only trim level to offer acoustic glass, significantly reducing exterior noise levels to an already comfortable ride.
The Capstone edition offers even more exciting creature comforts than the TRD Pro and 1794 editions, like a 14-inch multimedia touchscreen display (coming standard for this trim level), and Toyota’s premium Audio Multimedia system. Aside from the aesthetically pleasing dash and center console, the Capstone edition also comes standard with a 10-inch color heads-up display. When towing (nearly 12,000 lbs for this edition), it can also come with a panoramic view monitor for an extra $290 that shows the driver a top-down view of the vehicle. From the large touchscreen, the driver can see the cargo at the rear, and a split view to display either side of the object being towed. It also features a dynamic view of the hitch area – making connecting or disconnecting a trailer a breeze.
Photos: Toyota USA
