With the global push towards sustainability and smarter fuel management, SUV and truck buyers are increasingly prioritizing fuel efficiency. When it comes to full-size SUVs, the 2024 Toyota Sequoia stands out for its impressive combination of power, luxury, and surprisingly better-than-expected fuel economy. Whether you’re towing heavy loads or commuting across town, the 2024 Sequoia is engineered to deliver competitive miles per gallon (MPG) ratings compared to its peers in the large SUV category.
This comprehensive guide delves into real-world fuel economy metrics, engine options, and driving conditions that impact the 2024 Toyota Sequoia’s MPG. We’ll also compare it to its key competitors and provide tips to help maximize fuel efficiency.
Understanding the 2024 Toyota Sequoia’s Powertrain
To accurately discuss the Sequoia’s mileage figures, it’s essential to understand its powertrain configuration. The 2024 model year marks a significant advancement for Toyota’s top-tier SUV, as it debuts with a new bi-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain — a complete departure from the previous V8 engine.
Engine Specifications
- Engine Type: 3.4L Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid (Bi-Turbo Hybrid Max)
- Horsepower: 421 hp
- Torque: 494 lb-ft
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) or All-wheel drive (AWD)
Toyota’s shift to a hybrid system was a strategic move aimed not only at improving fuel economy but also enhancing overall performance while meeting increasingly stringent emission standards.
Hybrid Electric Drive System
The Sequoia Hybrid employs a unique full hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) system that integrates electric motors seamlessly with the V6 engine. Unlike plug-in hybrids or battery electric vehicles, the Sequoia does not require external charging. Instead, it leverages regenerative braking and engine-driven charging to keep its traction battery replenished.
This hybrid system enables the Sequoia to reduce engine drag, boost power output, and most importantly, optimize fuel consumption across different driving conditions.
2024 Toyota Sequoia MPG Ratings — Official EPA Figures
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rates the 2024 Toyota Sequoia as follows, based on extensive standardized testing:
MPG by Trim (City / Highway / Combined):
| Trim Level | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG | Drive Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sigma | 17 | 20 | 18 | RWD |
| Delta | 17 | 20 | 18 | RWD |
| Beta | 16 | 19 | 17 | AWD |
| Alpha | 16 | 19 | 17 | AWD |
| Platinum | 16 | 19 | 17 | AWD |
| Capstone | 16 | 19 | 17 | AWD |
Key Observations from EPA Figures:
- AWD models consume slightly more fuel than RWD versions, but the difference is relatively small.
- Despite its substantial towing capacity (up to 9,500 pounds), the Sequoia delivers class-competitive MPG thanks to its hybrid powertrain.
- The MPG ratings represent a significant improvement over the last generation Sequoia which typically achieved 13–15 MPG combined.
2024 Toyota Sequoia Real-World Fuel Efficiency
While EPA ratings offer a critical benchmark, they don’t always reflect real-world conditions. Here’s what Sequoia owners and drivers are reporting:
Owner Testimonials
Several drivers have shared their Sequoia mpg experiences on forums such as Edmunds and Edmunds Community. A sample of findings includes:
- City Driving: 15–17 MPG average
- Highway Driving: 19–22 MPG (depending on cargo and driving habits)
- Towing Conditions: 12–15 MPG
- Mixed Driving Conditions: 16–19 MPG
The hybrid engine provides an advantage during stop-and-go driving, as the vehicle can draw on electric motor assistance and regenerate energy through braking. Thus, it’s more efficient in heavier urban traffic than most competitors with traditional V6 or V8 engines.
Comparison to Similar Vehicles
How does the Sequoia stack up against comparable large SUVs? Let’s take a look:
| Model | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Toyota Sequoia RWD | 17 | 20 | 18 |
| 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid | 18 | 21 | 19 |
| 2024 GMC Yukon Hybrid | 18 | 21 | 19 |
| 2024 Ford Expedition | 17 | 23 | 19 |
| 2024 Nissan Armada | 16 | 22 | 18 |
Quick Analysis:
- The Sequoia remains competitive in fuel economy, especially considering its power and towing specs.
- Models like the Tahoe Hybrid and Yukon Hybrid offer similar hybrid setups and slightly better fuel economy but deliver slightly lesser maximum power than Sequoia.
- The Expedition’s slightly better highway rating is offset by lower fuel efficiency during city driving.
How the Hybrid System Boosts MPG
Toyota’s hybrid technology, refined over decades, plays a pivotal role in the Sequoia’s fuel economy improvements. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:
Regenerative Braking
Instead of wasting energy during braking, regenerative braking systems recapture that kinetic energy and convert it into electricity stored in the battery. This means less reliance on the gasoline engine, especially during stop-and-go scenarios.
Electric Motor Assistance
The hybrid setup allows electric motors to assist the gasoline engine under certain loads — especially at low speeds or during acceleration. By sharing the workload between the gas engine and motors, the Sequoia conserves fuel during high-torque demand periods.
Automatic Engine Shutoff and Restart
Hybrid models automatically turn off the engine at idle (e.g., stoplights) and restart it seamlessly when necessary. This eliminates unnecessary fuel burn during stationary periods.
Towing Efficiency vs. Fuel Economy
The 2024 Sequoia is built for serious towing, offering a best-in-class towing capacity of up to 9,500 lbs when properly equipped. However, towing inevitably impacts fuel efficiency. Let’s break it down:
MPG While Towing
- Light Towing (up to 3,000 lbs): 16–18 MPG (mixed driving)
- Moderate Towing (5,000–7,000 lbs): 12–15 MPG
- Full Load (9,000+ lbs): As low as 10–13 MPG
Towing figures for Sequoia hybrids are comparatively better than standard V8-equipped trucks, meaning it’s a better option for customers who want towing capacity with minimal fuel economy pain.
Optimizing Towing Efficiency Tips
Towing efficiency can be improved through various driving and maintenance techniques, including:
- Use the Tow/Haul Mode:** This setting optimizes gear shifts and engine performance for heavy loads.
- Maintain steady speeds and avoid rapid acceleration.
- Use aerodynamic trailer covers (for box trailers, motorhomes, or camping trailers).
- Ensure proper inflation of tires on both the Sequoia and trailer.
Trim Impacts on Fuel Economy
The Sequoia offers a variety of trims, ranging from the entry-level Sigma to the ultra-luxurious Capstone edition. While these trims don’t directly impact fuel efficiency, certain features can affect aerodynamics, weight, and engine performance indirectly.
RWD vs. AWD Fuel Efficiency
As earlier highlighted in EPA ratings:
- RWD trims (Sigma and Delta): Up to 18 MPG combined
- AWD Trims (Beta through Capstone): 17 MPG combined
AWD increases weight and drivetrain losses slightly, hence lowering mpg.
Capstone Edition
The premium Capstone trim adds substantial mass due to luxury features, chrome elements, larger wheels, and upgraded suspension. These contribute to slight increases in air resistance and rolling resistance.
Despite increased luxury and weight, the Capstone trim only sees a one-MPG drop, which is remarkably impressive given the size and features of the SUV.
Fuel Tank Size and Range
An overlooked but crucial aspect of fuel economy is how long the vehicle can drive before refueling. Here’s what drivers need to know about the Sequoia’s fuel system:
Gas Tank Capacity
| Drive Type | Fuel Tank Size |
|————|—————-|
| RWD | 23.5 gallons |
| AWD | 22.0 gallons |
Estimated Range (EPA Calculated):
Combining the 2024 Sequoia’s mpg figures with fuel tank size gives us the following estimated driving range:
- RWD Models: 423 miles (18 MPG * 23.5 gallons)
- AWD Models: 374 miles (17 MPG * 22 gallons)
These ranges are suitable for both cross-country travel and long weekends away from the city, especially when combined with intelligent fuel regeneration features.
Maximizing Fuel Economy: The Sequoia MPG Tips
While the Sequoia hybrid is engineered for efficiency, driver habits and maintenance practices can also significantly influence actual mpg results. Here are some of the most effective tips to help maximize fuel economy:
Driving Habits
- Maintain a consistent speed and avoid aggressive acceleration.
- Use eco-driving modes, if available, to optimize power delivery and throttle responsiveness.
- Plan routes to minimize stops, red lights, and elevation changes.
Maintenance Practices
- Keep tires properly inflated to reduce rolling resistance.
- Replace air filters regularly to ensure optimal combustion efficiency.
- Keep up with routine oil changes to maintain engine health and performance.
Reduce Unnecessary Weight
While full-size SUVs are meant for utility, carrying unnecessary cargo can drag down fuel economy. Remove roof racks or unused tools and furniture when not in use.
How Fuel Efficiency Influences Total Cost of Ownership
Fuel efficiency is an essential aspect of long-term vehicle value. Improved mileage translates to savings at the fuel pump, contributing to lower lifetime ownership costs for Sequoia owners.
Estimated Yearly Fuel Cost
Assuming 15,000 miles per year and current fuel prices (~$3.40/gallon), here’s an approximation of yearly fuel costs:
| AWD Trim | 17 MPG | $3,000/year |
|---|---|---|
| RWD Trim | 18 MPG | $2,833/year |
That’s over $167 in annual savings for RWD trim owners — a difference that can add up significantly over time.
The Competitive Edge: Why the Sequoia Hybrid MPG Matters
For large SUV buyers seeking both functionality and fuel efficiency, the 2024 Toyota Sequoia hybrid is a compelling option. While competitors may dabble in hybridization, Toyota’s extensive experience in this space gives the Sequoia a real-world, practical mpg advantage.
Moreover, the Sequoia is just one part of Toyota’s expanding hybrid SUV and truck lineup, which includes the Land Cruiser and Highland Hybrid. The brand has made a clear push toward sustainable performance without sacrificing capabilities such as power, reliability, and towing.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Toyota Sequoia’s fuel economy is a testament to Toyota’s long-standing innovation in hybrid technology within the large SUV and truck market. With estimated MPG ratings up to 18 in combined driving, and even better performance when considering its high-torque hybrid engine and towing capacity, the Sequoia hybrid is both powerful and practical.
Whether you’re a family-oriented driver, a weekend adventurer, or a professional who regularly tows large trailers, the Sequoia Hybrid delivers the best of both worlds: the utility of a full-size SUV with the improved fuel economy you can expect from smart hybrid engineering.
If fuel economy matters to you, and you aren’t ready to downsize to a small SUV or a crossover, consider test-driving the 2024 Toyota Sequoia Hybrid — you may be surprised at how efficient this powerhouse can be.
What is the fuel efficiency of the 2024 Toyota Sequoia?
The 2024 Toyota Sequoia delivers an EPA-estimated fuel efficiency of approximately 18 mpg in the city, 21 mpg on the highway, and 19 mpg combined for its rear-wheel-drive configuration. Models equipped with four-wheel drive see a minor reduction in efficiency, rating around 17 mpg city, 20 mpg highway, and 18 mpg combined. These figures are based on the vehicle’s hybrid powertrain, which combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with an electric motor to optimize both performance and fuel consumption.
The Sequoia’s fuel economy marks a significant improvement over previous non-hybrid generations, largely due to the inclusion of the i-FORCE MAX hybrid system. This setup not only boosts performance with 437 horsepower but also enhances efficiency by using electric assist during acceleration and idling. For a full-size SUV, these fuel economy numbers are competitive within its class, especially considering the vehicle’s towing capacity and overall capability.
How does the 2024 Sequoia’s hybrid system impact fuel efficiency?
The 2024 Toyota Sequoia features a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine paired with an electric motor, forming the i-FORCE MAX hybrid system. This hybrid setup contributes to improved fuel economy by reducing the engine’s workload during start-up and low-speed driving, where internal combustion engines are least efficient. The system also offers regenerative braking, which captures and stores energy that would otherwise be lost during deceleration.
Additionally, the hybrid system allows for more efficient engine restarts and smoother transitions between engine and electric power, further minimizing fuel consumption. The onboard battery is charged through the gasoline engine and regenerative braking, eliminating the need for external charging. Because of this, the Sequoia maintains a strong balance between powerful performance and reduced fuel consumption without compromising utility or towing capability.
Does the 2024 Toyota Sequoia’s fuel economy vary by trim level?
The 2024 Toyota Sequoia’s fuel economy figures remain consistent across most trim levels since the powertrain and drivetrain configurations are the same throughout the lineup. Regardless of whether you choose the base SR5 trim or the top-tier Platinum model, all versions come standard with the hybrid i-FORCE MAX system and a 10-speed automatic transmission. Therefore, differences in fuel efficiency aren’t dictated by trim level but by the drivetrain configuration (rear-wheel or four-wheel drive).
However, higher trims tend to include more weight from added features like premium audio systems, larger wheels, and additional safety or convenience technologies. While these enhancements can slightly influence fuel efficiency, the difference is generally negligible in day-to-day driving. Buyers should focus more on drivetrain selection than trim when considering fuel economy.
How does the Sequoia compare to competitors in terms of mpg?
When compared to competitors like the Ford Expedition, Chevrolet Tahoe, and Nissan Armada, the 2024 Toyota Sequoia hybrid holds a clear advantage in fuel efficiency. Non-hybrid versions of these rivals often post figures in the low to mid-teens for city driving, with combined numbers rarely exceeding 18 mpg. The Sequoia’s hybrid system gives it a roughly 2–3 mpg lead in combined fuel efficiency over most competitors, even those with turbocharged or hybrid assist setups.
This efficiency edge is especially notable considering the Sequoia doesn’t compromise on performance. While some competitors offer hybrid versions, they often don’t match the Sequoia’s comprehensive balance of mpg, towing capacity (up to 9,500 pounds), and interior space. Toyota’s hybrid strategy in the Sequoia helps it stand out as a fuel-efficient yet powerful full-size SUV in a category where efficiency typically takes a back seat to utility.
Can towing with the 2024 Sequoia affect its mpg?
Towing with the 2024 Toyota Sequoia will inevitably impact fuel economy, as is the case with any vehicle pulling a heavy load. Under normal driving conditions, the Sequoia hybrid earns approximately 19 mpg combined, but this can drop significantly when towing a trailer or camper. On average, owners can expect fuel economy to decrease by 30–50% depending on the size of the load, driving habits, and terrain.
Despite this reduction, the Sequoia’s hybrid system works to mitigate fuel efficiency losses by optimizing engine performance under strain and using electric assist during acceleration. Toyota engineers designed the vehicle to handle heavy towing with improved efficiency compared to traditional non-hybrid setups. For those who frequently tow, this vehicle offers one of the most fuel-efficient options in the full-size SUV segment without sacrificing capability.
What driving habits can improve the fuel economy of the 2024 Sequoia?
Adopting fuel-efficient driving habits can go a long way in maximizing the mpg of the 2024 Toyota Sequoia. Smooth acceleration, maintaining consistent speeds, and using cruise control on highways can help reduce fuel consumption. Sudden starts and hard braking decrease fuel economy, especially in a larger vehicle like the Sequoia. Additionally, keeping tire pressure at the recommended level and reducing excess weight in the cabin or cargo area can also contribute to better mileage.
Using the Sequoia’s drive modes smartly, such as choosing Eco or Hybrid mode when appropriate, can further enhance fuel efficiency by adjusting throttle response and climate control usage. Avoiding excessive idling and planning trips efficiently to minimize stop-and-go driving will also have a positive impact. These strategies, while beneficial for any vehicle, complement the hybrid system in the Sequoia, allowing drivers to leverage both technology and behavior for improved fuel economy.
Is the i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine reliable and efficient for long-term use?
Toyota’s hybrid systems are well-regarded for their long-term reliability, and the i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine in the 2024 Sequoia continues this legacy. Built with durability in mind, the hybrid components are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle and are backed by Toyota’s extensive experience in hybrid technology. Owners can expect consistent performance and fuel efficiency for years without the concern of frequent maintenance or replacements.
In terms of efficiency, the i-FORCE MAX hybrid system is engineered to maintain high performance while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Toyota offers a comprehensive warranty covering hybrid components for up to 10 years or 100,000 miles (depending on the region), which provides additional confidence to potential buyers. Overall, the Sequoia’s hybrid powertrain delivers a reliable, efficient, and durable performance package ideal for those seeking both power and long-term fuel economy.