Tahoe compared to the Toyota Sequoia

The Toyota Sequoia was completely redesigned for the 2023 model year, and its developers would have been remiss if they hadn’t targeted the best-selling model in the segment, the Chevrolet Tahoe. This is why it is somewhat surprising that the Sequoia comes up so short—sometimes literally—in so many areas. Barry’s Chevrolet compares these two people and cargo haulers. 

The Tahoe and Sequoia are large 3-row SUVs built on their brands’ full-size truck platforms. Both have rear-wheel drive, with 4-wheel drive as an option. However, the drivetrains of the Tahoe and Sequoia differ quite a bit.  

The Tahoe model line consists of six grades with a starting MSRP of $58,195 (including destination fees) for the model line. The flagship High Country has a starting MSRP of $76,900. The Sequoia price range is higher overall, starting at $63,125 for the SR5 and working through five grades to the Capstone, which starts at $80,115. On the more affordable side, the entry-level SR5 is equipped with a few extra features compared to the base Tahoe LS, and the Tahoe LT would be the most price-comparable model. 

Powertrain 

The Sequoia’s one-size-fits-all powertrain is a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 hybrid that produces 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque and is combined with a 10-speed automatic. EPA mpg estimates for rear-wheel-drive models (RWD) are 21 city, 24 highway, and 22 combined. Each figure decreases by two mpg to 19/22/20 when equipped with the $3000 4WD option. 

By contrast, the Tahoe model line has three engine choices, and each trim level offers a selection of at least two. The standard engine for all but the High Country is a 5.3-liter V8 producing 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. EPA estimates are 15 / 20 /17 for both RWD and 4WD models. All Tahoe models also have a 10-speed automatic. The Tahoe counters Sequoia’s power and efficiency advantages with the 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel V-6, which is a $995 option on all models except the off-road-focused Z71. The Duramax produces 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, with a torque peak at a low 1,500 rpm. The Duramax gets the same EPA 21 city mpg figure as the Sequoia but provides four more highway miles per gallon with 28, dropping to 26 with 4WD. The 6.2-liter V-8 is standard on the High Country and available on the next three highest trims. It produces 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque.

Chassis

Key to the Tahoe’s impressively smooth highway ride and surprising agility is a four-wheel independent suspension combined with a standard limited-slip rear differential. The Sequoia has a double-wishbone arrangement up front. Still, it retains a solid rear axle, which results in a less smooth highway ride, particularly over any pavement imperfections. An air suspension is available on both the Sequoia and Tahoe’s upper grades. Upper-grade Tahoe models are also available with magnetic ride control dampers on upper trims, smoothing the ride even further.

Size

Generous space for people and cargo is a primary reason for selecting a full-size SUV, and it is where the Tahoe shines in this comparison. You don’t see it from the exterior, where it trades dimensions with the Sequoia by having an inch shorter wheelbase (120.9 vs 122.0 inches) but two and a half inches more overall length (210.7 vs 208.1). But in the cabin, where it counts, you will find Tahoe with more legroom and headroom for all three rows. Regarding shoulder room, the Tahoe has more for the first two rows, while the Sequoia has an inch more for the third row. In standard form, both models seat eight, though the Tahoe can be ordered with a front bench seat to seat nine. Each can be ordered with second-row captain’s chairs for a total seating capacity of seven. 

The two models don’t even seem to be in the same class when comparing cargo space. In full cargo mode with both third- and second-row seatbacks down, the Tahoe can claim 123 cubic feet of space compared to just 87 for the Sequoia. When the second-row seats are up, the figures remain lopsided, with 73 cubic feet for the Tahoe vs 49 for the Sequoia. At first glance, cargo space behind the third row appears much closer, with the Tahoe having 26 cubic feet to the Sequoia’s 22. However, the Sequoia’s third-row seat has to slide fully rearward to accommodate anyone larger than grade school children, which leaves just 11 cubic feet.

Towing

The Sequoia’s maximum towing capacity of 9,520 exceeds the Tahoe’s maximum of 8,400 pounds. Both models offer a Hitch View from the rear camera and a Tow/Haul driving mode to adjust throttle response and transmission logic automatically. The Tahoe is the only one of the two to offer a suite of trailering technologies that make towing easier, including Hitch Guidance and Trailer Side Blind Spot, which can display an extended blind spot section that includes both the Tahoe and trailer. The Tahoe is also available with a trailer integration app that can monitor multiple trailer status features such as lights, water levels, generator status, and even slide-out status on compatible travel trailers. 

Cabin Technology

Both entry-level models have an 8-inch touchscreen, but the price-comparable Tahoe LT upgrades to a 10-inch display. Wireless smartphone compatibility is standard on both models, as is keyless start, 8-way power front seats, and tri-zone climate control. As you look among the different grades of both model lines, you will likely find what you want in terms of convenience features. Tahoe, however, is the only model that offers the true hand-free driving technology of Super Cruise. 

The Sequoia’s hybrid drivetrain is a high point, but the model simply does not have the cabin and cargo space, smooth-riding suspension, or towing sophistication you look for in a full-size SUV, and that is how the Tahoe comes out ahead. Visit Barry’s Chevrolet to check everything the Tahoe has to offer for yourself.