Grand highlander is so much better, sequoia seems to be a letdown with a failing 3rd row. if I'm getting a suv its going to be for hauling the kids or things, if I wanted a suv suitable for off-roading I'd pick a pickup and you can also haul larger items. Fit and finish seem to be way nicer on the GH than the sequoia.
Good. Tundra/Sequoia platform needs redesign in my opinion. Sales will push innovation. Toyota went backwards in many regards with new generation of large truck SUV.
@@stevieray1828 Yes, both the Tundra and Sequoia are terrible. The cabs are way too small on both of them. For being hybrids, the fuel economy is lousy. It is hard to imagine how they came out so poorly.
Space inefficiency hurts the sequoia so much. Hard to justify spending more $ for less space. Unless you're towing, off roading, or can't accept a 4 cylinder the GH is the better option.
Even though GH is the right answer I'm picking a picking a sequoia trd pro every day of the week. If you really need 3 row and space just get a sienna 🥱
My thoughts exactly, for the price and lack of space frankly I dont get what the sequia is for. If you wanna offroad the 4 runner is the better choice if you need space thr grand highlander is it.
Not sure what the marketing strategy was for introducing a comparable SUV to accidently compete with their "large" SUV, but actually check off all the boxes that are lacking on the Sequoia. Aesthetically i prefer the Sequoia, Practically, the Grand Hoghlander makes more overall sense.....Unless the plan was to Kill the sales of the Sequoia, to then end the model all together, and blame it on sales??
The Sequoia is a vehicle that everybody wants but realistically the Grand Highlander is what they actually need. One an enthusiast vehicle, the other is family oriented
I actually like how the grand highlander looks more than the sequoia, which I didn’t expect. The grand highlander is so much more practical, too. The sequoia is too much of a compromise vehicle. It’s not a true off-roader, so it really only stands apart due to its towing capability.
Thank you for this great review! I’ve been going back and forth between the two and have decided on the Sequoia despite its “faults”. We are a truck family anyways and this beast will be perfect for what we need it for- road trips, towing (small rv), off road activities & grocery runs.🤷🏻♀️
This the best review so far on any of these vehicles. You did full justice reviewing every important aspect of the vehicle especially the third row seats. Good video for families to make up their minds which vehicle to buy.
Wife and I shopped a Limited Sequoia 3 weeks ago and couldn’t get past the lack of usable rear space as we road trip w/ 2 kids & a full size dog and crate him in 3 row. Just too damn a compromise for $70K+.
I shop for dog crates ht, can I put a bike in the back? can I sleep in the back ? there is a huge space ...a hole between the 2/3rd row when seats are folded down , cargo space in the sequoia big let down if the 3rd row was gone it could work for me
Grand Highlander has some massive advantages to the Sequoia. For starters, the terrible interior packaging of the 3rd gen Sequoia, thanks to the solid rear axle (I won't entirely blame the hybrid battery for that one). The Grand Highlander pulls off interior packaging even better than my 2nd gen Sequoia, which did have IRS. The other big one is the 3rd gen Sequoia's 4wd no longer has a Torsen diff. My 2nd gen's 4hi basically served as AWD mode for me. This new one is only good for absolutely horrible conditions and.. off roading? No suburbanite will be using it. If the GH could tow a little more I think it'd be the Toyota for me
Sienna would be a cheaper alternative likely You should expect to pay couple grand extra for the privilege to own an a non minivan crossover aka Grand highlander.
@TheMrDudiness but the sienna has more luxury features than the grand highlander Like 4 way lumbar a power tilt telescope wheel, 4 zone climate control, long slide seats with ottomans.
@TheMrDudiness GH looks great . Most people like the square/ rugged looking cars nowadays. Sienna ‘s bullet train design looks great to me as well. Huge improvement from the last generation . I have no preference with their looks
If I could afford it, I would buy the GH instantly. Seems to me like best 3 row SUV to date. Lots of space, good quality materials, huge panoramic soonroof, up to date tech, everything someone looking for a family vehicle wants. Only complaint for some would be the lack of a V6 but we'll have to see how the 4 cylinder engines perform and I'm pretty sure there will be no issues with them being Toyota.
Honestly the V4 did pretty great but still need a V6 if your carrying stuff and hauling family at the same time you'd probably wanna be looking for the Lexus TX which does have a V6 plug in hybrid option available.
All they need to do with the Sequoia to make it pretty much perfect is to have the second row on tracks too. The configuration options would be excellent.
That’s why never buy first generation of anything. I like your and few other’s suggestions & will probably see it in a few years ahead. Still cannot wrap my head spending $100k on sequoia. Like you said, until second row on sequoia is on tracks, more storage space like GH will I be able to justify spending $100k on sequoia. For that price, you can buy 2 GH top of the line trim.
I have a 2014 Sequoia. I am disappointed on what they did to the new Sequoia. We bought ours because adults could comfortably sit in the third row. Love the flat floor and the sliding second row seats in it. My next large vehicle may be the Grand Highlander.
We have a 21 Highlander. I do like this Grand Highlander and I would take it over the Sequoia just for the fuel efficiency, but I am definitely in the market for a next gen taco or runner.
More room in a a mid size than there flagship full size... this thing destroys the sequoia and for much cheaper, huge shame because I would love to have that towing capability but the stupid battery placement is lazy and just gets in the way
It’s under the second row actually. Since it’s front wheel drive with an electric e axel in the rear, they can tuck it down there versus the sequoia that has a long drive shaft
Thanks for the great comparison between the two. I have a 2008 Sequoia (300K miles) and have been waiting for the new Sequoia to come out as I have absolutely loved all aspects of my vehicle. The 3rd row of seating is of minimal importance to me in either vehicle. I used mine probably a handful of times over 15 years. However, what has been important, and what has come as a serious disappointment with the new Sequoia, is that rear interior flooring. The GH design is more reminiscent of my current Sequoia design, which I love, because it's completely flat. You can just about put a twin mattress in the rear of a Sequoia with both rows laying flat, which is great for roadtrips. The new Sequoia, with that ridiculous shelving and raised flooring, which doesn't hold much weight, is not going to fly. Really bummed as many other design aspects of the new Sequoia are really nice. I also love the higher seating level as compared to the GH. However, the new GH has perked my interest for my next SUV. Otherwise, I might consider departing Toyota for my next SUV, even though I would really like to stay for the reliability. Really wish they would redesign the Sequoia and maybe get it off that Tundra frame as that is what resulted in that terrible rear interior design. Really bad move putting the new Sequoia on the same frame as the Tundra. Also, not a fan of the captain seating, but I assume you can opt for a bench on that 2nd row. The 3-way split in my 2008 Sequoia was extremely convenient. I know on the new Sequoia, the bench split is 1+2, which is _okay_, although not ideal.
I've had 1st gen, 2nd gen and now on a 3rd gen sequoia. A lot of the reviews are disappointing on TH-cam. But in real life, I got 3 kids and beautiful suv, and zero regrets. I would not listen to anybody, borrow 3rd gen and try it out for yourself
I don't get the captain chairs either. Making a bigger car less usable? My dog can't lay on a captain chair, and now you get a massive vehicle with wasted space
@@MeJonTheDonIt can be convenient if you have 4 kids being that they won't have to lever the seat to reach the third row. Rather, they just climb through the middle. It's more useful in vehicles where the second row doesn't fold/slide forward very far, and getting behind that second row is a squeeze.
I personally don't think this will really hurt Sequoia sales. The Sequoia wasn't really going to sell in Tahoe numbers in the first place. I think the Grand Highlander will throat punch the Honda Pilot thanks to increased cargo space and unbelievable power for the class in Max trim. It's really a more spacious Mazda CX-90 competitor that's trading luxury for space, which makes sense. The Sequoia still appeals to people like Mrs. JAX who wants a new, large truckish SUV but doesn't car as much about space since the kids are older (and one can drive). I'm going to drop a hot take here, Jon. Let me know what you think: the Grand Highlander proves that there will soon be a Lexus version to fill in the sizable gap in their lineup that the GX can't really fill. BOOM!
I think the Sequoia missed the mark. There's a need for a Grand size in the Toyota line, as Untamed motors demonstrated. Highlander fills it's niche........Sequoia does not in my opinion.
Do to the Sequoia exactly what you’ve done to the GH. I much prefer the large size of the Sequoia. But I’m not willing to compromise on the 3rd row and cargo space. For that reason I’m looking at the GH or new Honda Pilot.
I think this will not only be a success, but will see a market reaction from competitors such as Ford and GM. For so long, if you wanted to comfortably travel with more than 5 people, you had to fork over $60k-80k for an Expedition or Tahoe/Yukon/Suburban. Now, you not only have a more comfortable car-like large SUV that seats 8, but it'll be much more affordable, eating into the market dominated by GM. This is a huge win for Toyota. I love my 22' Highlander but this is really tempting, but I'll have to restrain myself because I'm waiting for the next Tacoma.
The sequoias calling card is being more truck like, towing, and (depending on model) more off road capable. But with the third row being so useless, you can achieve the same thing with the tundra. Bonus points for the tundra is you can get the regular engine and not a hybrid (trim level depending)
@@kingofthesofas some people prefer the older tried and true technology (I get that even the twin turbo is a new engine). Some people have the “less technology less stuff to break” mentality. Just look at how many people lost their minds when Toyota did away with the v8 even though it was archaic. So there’s probably a good amount of people that would refuse a hybrid just because it’s a newer technology (also realize hybrids themselves have been around for awhile, but not near this mainstream). I myself am in the middle ground, I have a ecoboost so I’m not scared of newer tech, but I didn’t want the power boost because it’s too new. But seeing how the power boost seems to be a good power train, I wouldn’t overlook it next time
@@gdub350 Yeah I totally get being wary of new systems. There are some car companies that are honestly way behind on hybrid tech and the older gen 1 or gen 2 toyota hybrids had their issues for sure. That being said I do trust Toyotas deployment of the hybrid system since it is Toyota and they have been doing hybrids long enough to work out all the kinks. I can say from experience since I own one of the new Sequioas that the power on that thing is no joke, it just launches of the line because of the hybrid setup. Having the low end instant response torque of the electric motor really helps fix the issue of turbo lag. Also getting 18-20 mpg in a giant SUV is a nice bonus.
@@kingofthesofas the new sequoia looks amazing, and I haven’t driven one but heard plenty of good things. Also haven’t heard any negatives like I have with the tundras and the turbos. The downfall seems to be that rear cargo area, which how “bad” it is is really up to each person opinions. I wish the pricing was a little bit more affordable though, but that can be said about any vehicle these days.
The grand Highlander has way better usage of the 3rd row and space too. If Toyota wants to make the sequoia more appealing they gotta give the option to remove the 3rd row seats to offer better cargo space for off road builds and camping
What’s the advertised mpg of the tundra vs the actual real world mpg? Realistically mpg of the GH will be 25-28 of they preaching 34mpg, that torque tho, raise the towing to at least 7500 and this will be a solid competition.
I was thinking of getting the sequoia before knowing about the grand Highlander. But I was hesitant to get it as there was barely any backspace storage, within a few days I heard about the Toyota grand Highlander. Looking to get it now.
Very nice and informative topic! More videos like this would help future buyers who will not have the chance to do this before getting their new vehicles. 👍🏼👍🏼
@@TRDJon 🤔 can’t wait for your driving impressions review. Together with the prices and colors. And in your honest opinion on which trim is the best value for the average family.
Thanks for sharing. Went to the dealership and checked the 2 cars. Sequoia is a bit of luxury while the Grand Highlander has a better fuel efficiency and comfort specially when your doing cross country with he whole family
If the Grand Highlander offered an extra 1000lbs or more towing capacity I'd cancel my Sequoia order and trade in my 22 Highlander for the GH. Towing my 4000lbs camping trailer only locally.
Thanks for showing the differences. I am getting Sequoia Trd Pro because it looks way better than Highlander. Just put money down for midnight black and red interior.
I think that this Grand Highlander is an answer to so many people's prayers and that it may end up being the best seller in its segment and I would definitely prefer it over all other three-raw SUV from Toyota or any other brand
Dude the more you post of the grand highlander the more I'm realizing it's EXACTLY what I want for my wife. It's literally the internals of a sienna with the better looks of a highlander/ rav4 combined! I cannot wait. Can't afford it but I'm saving up my pennies! Keep up the awesome videos.
@TheMrDudiness yeah that's insane for a 4 cylinder engine. That is no doubt due to the hybrid. All the dimensions and things so far look very similar. I'm excited for them to hit the dealers so I can see one in person
WTF Toyota! Stationary 2nd row?! How is the Grand Highlander bigger than the Sequoia?! I will stay with the 2nd gen Sequoia. I hope the 3rd gen Sequoia flops! Get back to the drawing board!
I've been saying, until they make the rear seats flush, their sales will plummet as they decreased total cu ft from the previous sequoia by over 40 cu ft.!!!! And they need to make it fold flat. Only people that will buy it is for tow purposes
If Sequoia came with a non hybrid system that gave you normal storage in the back, I would buy it in a heartbeat. I would prefer better storage over the larger hybrid power numbers. The Sequoia cargo area is currently unusable in my opinion.
3rd row kills the sequoia , the TRD pro should be a 2 row as a off roader, car camper, overlander we most of us have no need ,want or will ever have a use for the 3rd row ,we want towing ,payload cargo space for our camping kit
@@youtubecarspottersguide1 I wonder if a nicely cut piece of plywood placed in the back to make it flat would work, or if there was "a way" to take out that 3rd row seat. But it's stupid to have to take these measures on a +$80k vehicle.
IMO, the Grand Highlander has raised the bar for the Sequoia. Maybe it's possible to directly replicate the GH's back seat solutions in the Sequoia, including moving the hybrid battery?
GH looks 🔥ordered already a platinum trim and on the dealer table where another 2 orders for Grand Highlander.so choise is obvious it will be a hot seller for Toyota
We have 2009 highlander and still drive like a champ up to this day. But the Grand Highlander looks so much nicer, maybe this is the time to trade our old one.
As a dog owner, the fold flat seats are a must. Toyota had better not remove the roll-down back window in the next gen 4Runner. I've been waiting years to upgrade to the new 4Runner
Also lets hope it stays powered roll-down window too. The new sequoia is a manually operated window that pops off like a mini hatch rather than roll down into the door like a current 4runner
I looked and only found the weight of the Prius battery. It's 118 lbs. Add in the actual motor and everything else connected to it. It's going to add up. It might be more with the Grand Highlander IDK. From what I have found, I believe it's a 700 lb difference. 400 lb ft of torque is great, but how much is it going to offset?
The rear area in the sequoia would be a nightmare, my dog would hate that. I fold both rows of seats down and and line the flat surface with dog beds, and I hate they ditched V6s in the highlander. Just put a deposit on a new honda pilot to replace the S/O's Rav4, never thought I would leave toyota.
The GH for sure. While I prefer the beafy look of the Sequoia and the sound, the weird cargo layout and poor fuel economy is a major drawback. Another youtuber who drove the Sequoia TRD PRO said the fuel economy was actually around 11mpg driving conservatively in ECO mode which is half of the stated mpg for the Sequoia!
The highlander should be compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Durango, Passport, explorer etc. as far as size and cargo goes. This Grand Highlander is the same ballpark as a Pilot, Telluride etc. This size is not that new for other companies. I am waiting to see a comparison between the new Pilot and this Grand Highlander. If the new Gen 4runner has this kind of MPG then I would overlook all the shortcomings of the 4runner and get that. I have always been a 4runner owner and still love them for what they are. If not, I might have to go with a Pilot or Grand Highlander. Thanks for the video. Good job!
The Sequoia’s rear battery and seat are a horrible set up. I thought I wanted one, but trying to load large heavy things like groceries or coolers… Highlander seems better. Holding out for the 2024 4Runner, or a Ford Explorer King Ranch.
We currently have a 2021 Highlander and may get the Grand Highlander when it comes out, the Sequoia is a let down. Toyota needs to make the Sequoia longer, closer to a Suburban then we'll consider it.
Great video Jon! I felt the grand Highlander just felt more my speed with incredible leg room space in the 3rd row. I like the modern interior as well. Sequoia is great in its own right too
99.9999999% of people's "off-road" will be doable in both. Most people will never find the limits of the GH, much less the type of terrain in which the difference between the Sequoia and GH will be required.
More and more I am looking at American cars for a large suv. I wanted the sequoia but I feel this version took a big step back. Engine, size, and quality of interior
Which of these 3-row Toyota SUVs would you pick? Enjoy guys!
Grand highlander is so much better, sequoia seems to be a letdown with a failing 3rd row. if I'm getting a suv its going to be for hauling the kids or things, if I wanted a suv suitable for off-roading I'd pick a pickup and you can also haul larger items. Fit and finish seem to be way nicer on the GH than the sequoia.
If money was no object the sequoia for sure
Love the sequoia for sure because it is higher and power. But I also need room because I travel a lot with 2 kids.
GH.
sequoia is now made for off-roading. Some small towing. Nothing else.
I feel the GH would be better for that and the hybrid max is no slouch.
The grand highlander just killed off a large amount of sequoia sales
Rather the GH picked up on the sequoia sales that people rejected due to the lack of practically of that vehicle design
Good. Tundra/Sequoia platform needs redesign in my opinion. Sales will push innovation. Toyota went backwards in many regards with new generation of large truck SUV.
@@stevieray1828 Yes, both the Tundra and Sequoia are terrible. The cabs are way too small on both of them. For being hybrids, the fuel economy is lousy. It is hard to imagine how they came out so poorly.
Men I agree
The insane dealer markups aren't helping them sell either.
Space inefficiency hurts the sequoia so much. Hard to justify spending more $ for less space. Unless you're towing, off roading, or can't accept a 4 cylinder the GH is the better option.
Even though GH is the right answer I'm picking a picking a sequoia trd pro every day of the week. If you really need 3 row and space just get a sienna 🥱
@@naveeds786 people who go for SUVs do not want a sienna but a more capable and dignifying vehicle
My thoughts exactly, for the price and lack of space frankly I dont get what the sequia is for. If you wanna offroad the 4 runner is the better choice if you need space thr grand highlander is it.
@@naveeds786like picking in real life or hypothetically picking because it looks cooler in pictures?
Not sure what the marketing strategy was for introducing a comparable SUV to accidently compete with their "large" SUV, but actually check off all the boxes that are lacking on the Sequoia. Aesthetically i prefer the Sequoia, Practically, the Grand Hoghlander makes more overall sense.....Unless the plan was to Kill the sales of the Sequoia, to then end the model all together, and blame it on sales??
The Sequoia is a vehicle that everybody wants but realistically the Grand Highlander is what they actually need. One an enthusiast vehicle, the other is family oriented
I actually like how the grand highlander looks more than the sequoia, which I didn’t expect. The grand highlander is so much more practical, too. The sequoia is too much of a compromise vehicle. It’s not a true off-roader, so it really only stands apart due to its towing capability.
Sequioa has a nicer infotainment though
Thank you for this great review! I’ve been going back and forth between the two and have decided on the Sequoia despite its “faults”. We are a truck family anyways and this beast will be perfect for what we need it for- road trips, towing (small rv), off road activities & grocery runs.🤷🏻♀️
This the best review so far on any of these vehicles. You did full justice reviewing every important aspect of the vehicle especially the third row seats. Good video for families to make up their minds which vehicle to buy.
Thank you so much
Wife and I shopped a Limited Sequoia 3 weeks ago and couldn’t get past the lack of usable rear space as we road trip w/ 2 kids & a full size dog and crate him in 3 row. Just too damn a compromise for $70K+.
I shop for dog crates ht, can I put a bike in the back? can I sleep in the back ? there is a huge space ...a hole between the 2/3rd row when seats are folded down , cargo space in the sequoia big let down if the 3rd row was gone it could work for me
I haul my dogs to competitions, a flat cargo area is essential. What they've done to the Sequoia is just silly.
@@youtubecarspottersguide1nope. It’s not possible to do ANY of those things on the sequoia.
@@MGZGOATED we drove past Toyota now
@@youtubecarspottersguide1 what’d you get?
OMG! They finally put a dual exhaust on the Highlander. Beautiful!
Right?!
Grand Highlander will hurt Sequoia sales.
They just killed Sequoia with that stupid 3rd row situation. Its not a family hauler.
Grand Highlander has some massive advantages to the Sequoia. For starters, the terrible interior packaging of the 3rd gen Sequoia, thanks to the solid rear axle (I won't entirely blame the hybrid battery for that one). The Grand Highlander pulls off interior packaging even better than my 2nd gen Sequoia, which did have IRS. The other big one is the 3rd gen Sequoia's 4wd no longer has a Torsen diff. My 2nd gen's 4hi basically served as AWD mode for me. This new one is only good for absolutely horrible conditions and.. off roading? No suburbanite will be using it. If the GH could tow a little more I think it'd be the Toyota for me
The Grand Highlander and the Sienna would be a good comparison as well. Both amazing practical vehicles for families.
Sienna would be a cheaper alternative likely
You should expect to pay couple grand extra for the privilege to own an a non minivan crossover aka Grand highlander.
@TheMrDudiness but the sienna has more luxury features than the grand highlander
Like 4 way lumbar a power tilt telescope wheel, 4 zone climate control, long slide seats with ottomans.
@TheMrDudiness GH looks great . Most people like the square/ rugged looking cars nowadays. Sienna ‘s bullet train design looks great to me as well. Huge improvement from the last generation . I have no preference with their looks
Great unbiased review, my man!
Always!
I have a 2023 Sequoia limited trd and i love it. it fits my family of 5 very well. Cant wait to try it out this spring and summer. camping fishing.
Right on!
If I could afford it, I would buy the GH instantly. Seems to me like best 3 row SUV to date. Lots of space, good quality materials, huge panoramic soonroof, up to date tech, everything someone looking for a family vehicle wants. Only complaint for some would be the lack of a V6 but we'll have to see how the 4 cylinder engines perform and I'm pretty sure there will be no issues with them being Toyota.
Hybrid v6
Honestly the V4 did pretty great but still need a V6 if your carrying stuff and hauling family at the same time you'd probably wanna be looking for the Lexus TX which does have a V6 plug in hybrid option available.
All they need to do with the Sequoia to make it pretty much perfect is to have the second row on tracks too. The configuration options would be excellent.
They'd need to offer a non-hybrid version so the third row doesn't sit on top of the battery.
That’s why never buy first generation of anything. I like your and few other’s suggestions & will probably see it in a few years ahead.
Still cannot wrap my head spending $100k on sequoia. Like you said, until second row on sequoia is on tracks, more storage space like GH will I be able to justify spending $100k on sequoia. For that price, you can buy 2 GH top of the line trim.
In Toronto, wait time for highlander is 2 years. Pay now and get a 2023 model in 2025 😂
I have a 2014 Sequoia. I am disappointed on what they did to the new Sequoia. We bought ours because adults could comfortably sit in the third row. Love the flat floor and the sliding second row seats in it. My next large vehicle may be the Grand Highlander.
Keep your sequoia. It’ll be far more reliable than the grand highlander
@@naveenthemachine Yes! It'll be quite some time before I get rid of it. It's only got 143,000 miles. And with adding about 7,500 miles a year... 🙂
@@naveenthemachine More reliable than the turbo grand highlander, more reliable than the non turbo, we will see.
@@hedgehogthesonic3181 only the regular hybrid GH is non turbo. The base and top end engines are turbo
I know the sequoia is bigger, but it can’t hold a candle to the current highlander, let alone the 2024 grand HL.
We have a 21 Highlander. I do like this Grand Highlander and I would take it over the Sequoia just for the fuel efficiency, but I am definitely in the market for a next gen taco or runner.
Hopefully we see the Tacoma this year!!!
Taco?
More room in a a mid size than there flagship full size... this thing destroys the sequoia and for much cheaper, huge shame because I would love to have that towing capability but the stupid battery placement is lazy and just gets in the way
Grand Highlander for sure! Thank you for this video!
I have a Highlander now and plan to buy the Grand Highlander.
Nice!
We borrowed a grand highlander from
Work to compare it to the sequoia and BOTH actually preferred the grand highlander hybrix max! Going to order one.
For suv passenger comfort the GH is superior
Why doesn’t the Grand Highlander have a battery bump in the 3rd row like the Sequoia?
It’s under the second row actually. Since it’s front wheel drive with an electric e axel in the rear, they can tuck it down there versus the sequoia that has a long drive shaft
Its because the Sequoia is built with a solid rear axle. That along with hybrid battery takes up space in the back.
body on frame and solid rear axle in the Sequoia takes up more space vs unibody and independent suspension in the GH.
Thanks for the great comparison between the two. I have a 2008 Sequoia (300K miles) and have been waiting for the new Sequoia to come out as I have absolutely loved all aspects of my vehicle. The 3rd row of seating is of minimal importance to me in either vehicle. I used mine probably a handful of times over 15 years. However, what has been important, and what has come as a serious disappointment with the new Sequoia, is that rear interior flooring. The GH design is more reminiscent of my current Sequoia design, which I love, because it's completely flat. You can just about put a twin mattress in the rear of a Sequoia with both rows laying flat, which is great for roadtrips. The new Sequoia, with that ridiculous shelving and raised flooring, which doesn't hold much weight, is not going to fly. Really bummed as many other design aspects of the new Sequoia are really nice. I also love the higher seating level as compared to the GH. However, the new GH has perked my interest for my next SUV. Otherwise, I might consider departing Toyota for my next SUV, even though I would really like to stay for the reliability.
Really wish they would redesign the Sequoia and maybe get it off that Tundra frame as that is what resulted in that terrible rear interior design. Really bad move putting the new Sequoia on the same frame as the Tundra. Also, not a fan of the captain seating, but I assume you can opt for a bench on that 2nd row. The 3-way split in my 2008 Sequoia was extremely convenient. I know on the new Sequoia, the bench split is 1+2, which is _okay_, although not ideal.
I've had 1st gen, 2nd gen and now on a 3rd gen sequoia. A lot of the reviews are disappointing on TH-cam. But in real life, I got 3 kids and beautiful suv, and zero regrets. I would not listen to anybody, borrow 3rd gen and try it out for yourself
I don't get the captain chairs either. Making a bigger car less usable? My dog can't lay on a captain chair, and now you get a massive vehicle with wasted space
@@movemyboat what about part-time?(
@@Зуб-За-Зуб part time is ok. I have several Lexus (isF and gsF, they are not awd)
@@MeJonTheDonIt can be convenient if you have 4 kids being that they won't have to lever the seat to reach the third row. Rather, they just climb through the middle. It's more useful in vehicles where the second row doesn't fold/slide forward very far, and getting behind that second row is a squeeze.
I personally don't think this will really hurt Sequoia sales. The Sequoia wasn't really going to sell in Tahoe numbers in the first place. I think the Grand Highlander will throat punch the Honda Pilot thanks to increased cargo space and unbelievable power for the class in Max trim. It's really a more spacious Mazda CX-90 competitor that's trading luxury for space, which makes sense. The Sequoia still appeals to people like Mrs. JAX who wants a new, large truckish SUV but doesn't car as much about space since the kids are older (and one can drive). I'm going to drop a hot take here, Jon. Let me know what you think: the Grand Highlander proves that there will soon be a Lexus version to fill in the sizable gap in their lineup that the GX can't really fill. BOOM!
I think the Sequoia missed the mark. There's a need for a Grand size in the Toyota line, as Untamed motors demonstrated. Highlander fills it's niche........Sequoia does not in my opinion.
We have a GH Platinum and we love it, but the Sequoia is SUCH a sexy SUV.
Do to the Sequoia exactly what you’ve done to the GH. I much prefer the large size of the Sequoia.
But I’m not willing to compromise on the 3rd row and cargo space. For that reason I’m looking at the GH or new Honda Pilot.
I think this will not only be a success, but will see a market reaction from competitors such as Ford and GM. For so long, if you wanted to comfortably travel with more than 5 people, you had to fork over $60k-80k for an Expedition or Tahoe/Yukon/Suburban. Now, you not only have a more comfortable car-like large SUV that seats 8, but it'll be much more affordable, eating into the market dominated by GM. This is a huge win for Toyota. I love my 22' Highlander but this is really tempting, but I'll have to restrain myself because I'm waiting for the next Tacoma.
The sequoias calling card is being more truck like, towing, and (depending on model) more off road capable. But with the third row being so useless, you can achieve the same thing with the tundra. Bonus points for the tundra is you can get the regular engine and not a hybrid (trim level depending)
why would you not want the hybrid engine that thing ads a ton of power.
@@kingofthesofas some people prefer the older tried and true technology (I get that even the twin turbo is a new engine). Some people have the “less technology less stuff to break” mentality. Just look at how many people lost their minds when Toyota did away with the v8 even though it was archaic. So there’s probably a good amount of people that would refuse a hybrid just because it’s a newer technology (also realize hybrids themselves have been around for awhile, but not near this mainstream). I myself am in the middle ground, I have a ecoboost so I’m not scared of newer tech, but I didn’t want the power boost because it’s too new. But seeing how the power boost seems to be a good power train, I wouldn’t overlook it next time
@@gdub350 Yeah I totally get being wary of new systems. There are some car companies that are honestly way behind on hybrid tech and the older gen 1 or gen 2 toyota hybrids had their issues for sure. That being said I do trust Toyotas deployment of the hybrid system since it is Toyota and they have been doing hybrids long enough to work out all the kinks. I can say from experience since I own one of the new Sequioas that the power on that thing is no joke, it just launches of the line because of the hybrid setup. Having the low end instant response torque of the electric motor really helps fix the issue of turbo lag. Also getting 18-20 mpg in a giant SUV is a nice bonus.
@@kingofthesofas the new sequoia looks amazing, and I haven’t driven one but heard plenty of good things. Also haven’t heard any negatives like I have with the tundras and the turbos. The downfall seems to be that rear cargo area, which how “bad” it is is really up to each person opinions. I wish the pricing was a little bit more affordable though, but that can be said about any vehicle these days.
The grand Highlander has way better usage of the 3rd row and space too. If Toyota wants to make the sequoia more appealing they gotta give the option to remove the 3rd row seats to offer better cargo space for off road builds and camping
Only reason to chose sequoia is for towing and maybe off-roading? But for usage for 95% of people …Grand Highlander is better in every way.
Great video thanks
Of course man!
@@TRDJon my first toyota was a 1998 Corolla
Will be interesting to see how well these turbo designs hold up in terms of long term reliability.
Lots of Audi 2.0 turbos have been well over 200k miles. I would assume Toyota engineers know a thing or two about longevity.
Not very long. NA V6 > turbo 4 cylinder (especially on a big 3-row SUV).
Thanks for walking around the 2 truck SUV. Looks like the Grand Highlander is the best one, and cost wayyy...less...❤
You bet
sequoia looks stunning. but grand trunk space is definitely a win
Great job comparing the two!👍🏽
The GH just killed the Sequoia 😂 but it needs that 3.4L V6 option on the motor too
Now these is the car me and my family needs, we really wanted the sequoia but the storage space was the selling point for us.
Grand highlander the way to go!!! Plus price is the way to go!!!!! Moms don’t need to buy siennas anymore
Will easily take the Grand Highlander and it’s 34mpg 💯
Insane right???
What’s the advertised mpg of the tundra vs the actual real world mpg?
Realistically mpg of the GH will be 25-28 of they preaching 34mpg, that torque tho, raise the towing to at least 7500 and this will be a solid competition.
I was thinking of getting the sequoia before knowing about the grand Highlander. But I was hesitant to get it as there was barely any backspace storage, within a few days I heard about the Toyota grand Highlander. Looking to get it now.
When is the gran highlander available in NY?
Very nice and informative topic! More videos like this would help future buyers who will not have the chance to do this before getting their new vehicles. 👍🏼👍🏼
I agree 👍 💯
Thanks!! I love shows like this because it really allows me to make videos like this for you all.
@@TRDJon 🍻 Jon. Any idea on how much the GH would cost? Rough estimate 😉
I’d say say 40-60K
@@TRDJon 🤔 can’t wait for your driving impressions review. Together with the prices and colors. And in your honest opinion on which trim is the best value for the average family.
Great video. Perhaps a hot take; I like the Sequoia not having that extra storage space in the dash.
The Grand Highlander is complete useless as an off roader and the Sequoia is completely useless as 3 row SUV. So theres that
Thanks for sharing. Went to the dealership and checked the 2 cars. Sequoia is a bit of luxury while the Grand Highlander has a better fuel efficiency and comfort specially when your doing cross country with he whole family
If the Grand Highlander offered an extra 1000lbs or more towing capacity I'd cancel my Sequoia order and trade in my 22 Highlander for the GH. Towing my 4000lbs camping trailer only locally.
Thanks for showing the differences. I am getting Sequoia Trd Pro because it looks way better than Highlander. Just put money down for midnight black and red interior.
So u r paying like 20k extra just for the looks? 😬
Yeah you aren’t the brightest
@@DarthNero how much is a Sequoia TRD Pro these days?
104k in Ontario- I ordered one 2 months ago 👍
@@ag4engMSRP: $70k USD
I think that this Grand Highlander is an answer to so many people's prayers and that it may end up being the best seller in its segment and I would definitely prefer it over all other three-raw SUV from Toyota or any other brand
Cargo space on the Grand Highlander is just short of the Sienna which has 101 cuft
So if there was a car seat in the second row, how would you get in the back if it doesn't move forward?
Go around to the other side?
@@TRDJon guess I should have said car seats in the 2nd row....
You could walk in the center row then if truly needed
Im curious to know which is better for a growing family, compared with a sienna as well.
Dude the more you post of the grand highlander the more I'm realizing it's EXACTLY what I want for my wife. It's literally the internals of a sienna with the better looks of a highlander/ rav4 combined! I cannot wait. Can't afford it but I'm saving up my pennies! Keep up the awesome videos.
@TheMrDudiness yeah that's insane for a 4 cylinder engine. That is no doubt due to the hybrid. All the dimensions and things so far look very similar. I'm excited for them to hit the dealers so I can see one in person
@@TheMrDudiness eeeeexactly. It's like they took the best of a lot of vehicles and made this
WTF Toyota! Stationary 2nd row?! How is the Grand Highlander bigger than the Sequoia?! I will stay with the 2nd gen Sequoia. I hope the 3rd gen Sequoia flops! Get back to the drawing board!
I've been saying, until they make the rear seats flush, their sales will plummet as they decreased total cu ft from the previous sequoia by over 40 cu ft.!!!! And they need to make it fold flat. Only people that will buy it is for tow purposes
If Sequoia came with a non hybrid system that gave you normal storage in the back, I would buy it in a heartbeat. I would prefer better storage over the larger hybrid power numbers. The Sequoia cargo area is currently unusable in my opinion.
3rd row kills the sequoia , the TRD pro should be a 2 row as a off roader, car camper, overlander we most of us have no need ,want or will ever have a use for the 3rd row ,we want towing ,payload cargo space for our camping kit
@@youtubecarspottersguide1 I wonder if a nicely cut piece of plywood placed in the back to make it flat would work, or if there was "a way" to take out that 3rd row seat. But it's stupid to have to take these measures on a +$80k vehicle.
Thanks for the comparison video.
Of course!
IMO, the Grand Highlander has raised the bar for the Sequoia. Maybe it's possible to directly replicate the GH's back seat solutions in the Sequoia, including moving the hybrid battery?
Only thing that hurts the Sequoia is the battery placement for the rear.
Is the Sequoia battery larger? I would think it is because it’s built for power and not MPG.
@@TRDJon don’t forget the live axle in the sequoia that also really hurts interior space but also on road driving
@@TRDJon Can't forget the huge impact on rear floor height due to the solid rear axle.
GH looks 🔥ordered already a platinum trim and on the dealer table where another 2 orders for Grand Highlander.so choise is obvious it will be a hot seller for Toyota
We have 2009 highlander and still drive like a champ up to this day. But the Grand Highlander looks so much nicer, maybe this is the time to trade our old one.
What Toyota should have done was to name Sequioa as Land Cruiser and name Grand Highlander as Sequioa.
Grand Highlander has the interior design and styling that the Sequoia should have.
As a dog owner, the fold flat seats are a must. Toyota had better not remove the roll-down back window in the next gen 4Runner. I've been waiting years to upgrade to the new 4Runner
Also lets hope it stays powered roll-down window too. The new sequoia is a manually operated window that pops off like a mini hatch rather than roll down into the door like a current 4runner
I looked and only found the weight of the Prius battery. It's 118 lbs. Add in the actual motor and everything else connected to it. It's going to add up. It might be more with the Grand Highlander IDK. From what I have found, I believe it's a 700 lb difference. 400 lb ft of torque is great, but how much is it going to offset?
The rear area in the sequoia would be a nightmare, my dog would hate that.
I fold both rows of seats down and and line the flat surface with dog beds, and I hate they ditched V6s in the highlander.
Just put a deposit on a new honda pilot to replace the S/O's Rav4, never thought I would leave toyota.
The GH for sure. While I prefer the beafy look of the Sequoia and the sound, the weird cargo layout and poor fuel economy is a major drawback. Another youtuber who drove the Sequoia TRD PRO said the fuel economy was actually around 11mpg driving conservatively in ECO mode which is half of the stated mpg for the Sequoia!
I loved the Sequoyah 👌👍👍 I wish I can get one of those models 😇🙏
The highlander should be compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Durango, Passport, explorer etc. as far as size and cargo goes. This Grand Highlander is the same ballpark as a Pilot, Telluride etc. This size is not that new for other companies. I am waiting to see a comparison between the new Pilot and this Grand Highlander. If the new Gen 4runner has this kind of MPG then I would overlook all the shortcomings of the 4runner and get that. I have always been a 4runner owner and still love them for what they are. If not, I might have to go with a Pilot or Grand Highlander. Thanks for the video. Good job!
Somebody just need stop playing cheap of the 4runner and give the proper engine/transmission combo to get better mpg.
Any idea what kind of gas mileage the hybrid max gets?
Hopefully high 20's
when is this coming out?
Later this year
thank you. i been debating sequoia or g highlander.---G highlander be my choice
No problem
Price list
XLE start at $41k
Limited $48k
Platinum $53k
Just pre ordered mine(xle)with moonroof and other mods for $47k not bad at all !!!
The Sequoia’s rear battery and seat are a horrible set up. I thought I wanted one, but trying to load large heavy things like groceries or coolers…
Highlander seems better. Holding out for the 2024 4Runner, or a Ford Explorer King Ranch.
Nice review bro👍 is this come with remote start key and a full size spare tire? Thanks!
Great job! The Tundra and Sequoia are really similar from the drivers perspective.
Thanks! 👍
I really don't understand why TOYOTA messed up the cargo space for the Sequoia.
Id honesty just go for the hybrid max grand highlander for the extra power and the 3rd row being completely flat is pretty good too
Good comparison vid. Thanks!
Thanks!
Thanks for the video man, appreciate your effort. You made it much easier honestly.
Glad it helped!!
Despite all the compromises I love the seqouia.,& am a great fun of towing mirrors,don't ask me why,I just love em
Not sure what Toyota was thinking on the Sequoia’s third row, what a mistake. Way overpriced.
Any ideas on the msrp of the Grand Highlander?
40-60K i'd say the range would be
also keep hearing from sequoia owners that mpg is terrible. Realistically low teens vs what’s marketed.
Totally off topic... You look really familiar. Did you go to RBVHS? Love the comparison video!
I did!
We currently have a 2021 Highlander and may get the Grand Highlander when it comes out, the Sequoia is a let down. Toyota needs to make the Sequoia longer, closer to a Suburban then we'll consider it.
Great video Jon! I felt the grand Highlander just felt more my speed with incredible leg room space in the 3rd row. I like the modern interior as well. Sequoia is great in its own right too
going with the sequoia trd PRO off road
Heck yea. Great choice.
No full size spare wheel for highlander?
Just purchased a GH! It arrives in a week!
Hope you enjoy it!
If you aren’t going to ever go off-road I think the grand highlander is an easy choice unless it ends up being more expensive somehow.
99.9999999% of people's "off-road" will be doable in both. Most people will never find the limits of the GH, much less the type of terrain in which the difference between the Sequoia and GH will be required.
What about towing or hauling stuff and the GH doesn't even have a V6 which the Sequoia does...
Do we have info on the GVWR for the Grand Highlander?
Not yet. Few weeks is first drive
More and more I am looking at American cars for a large suv. I wanted the sequoia but I feel this version took a big step back. Engine, size, and quality of interior
Take engine off that list, this I force max is amazing (minus the mpg)
Not a fan of the wonky center console/center console armrest , but overall, the new Grand Highlander looks pretty good.
$80k I'm out.. At that point I'm inclined to look at a duramax suburban. The Highlander, on the other hand, seems like a win.
if time allows when the GH comes out...would you mind doing a similar comparison with the Sienna Woodland?
With the sequoia from what I am seeing you need to buy the capstone to get the 2nd row captains seats.
No. Platinum and up
I OWN A 2002 TOYOTA 4 RUNNER, WITH 319,000 MILES! IM DOING MY RESEARCH! THIS ONE IS A BEAUTY!! THANKS FOR THE AWESOME REVIEW~! ROCK ON!!
Of course