15 MPG combined. No one buys a 2015 Toyota Sequoia 2WD with the 5.7L V8 expecting Prius-level gas mileage. This is a full-size SUV built for serious hauling, towing, and passenger capacity, and that capability comes at a cost. It’s a trade-off buyers knowingly make for the Sequoia’s immense practicality and Toyota’s reliable reputation. They need the space, the power, and the confidence to tackle big jobs, and fuel economy often takes a backseat to those priorities.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 13 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway reflect the Sequoia’s inherent characteristics. The 5.7L V8, while a powerhouse, needs to work hard to move this sizable vehicle, especially during stop-and-go city driving. The six-speed automatic transmission, while generally smooth and responsive, is geared to deliver the torque needed for towing and climbing, further impacting fuel economy in urban environments. Out on the open road, the Sequoia fares slightly better, but the large frontal area and weight still work to prevent achieving truly impressive highway numbers. The 18 MPG shows that this is not a vehicle optimized for long-distance cruising solely on efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Toyota Sequoia 2WD 5.7L V8 at $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national averages for fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is an estimate; your actual costs could be higher or lower depending on your driving habits, location, and current fuel prices. A driver who spends most of their time in congested city traffic or frequently tows heavy loads will likely exceed this estimate. Conversely, someone primarily driving on the highway with a light foot and lower fuel prices may see slightly better results. Therefore, this $2,900 figure should be viewed as a benchmark for understanding the potential fuel expenses associated with owning the Sequoia.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing methodology, real-world fuel economy often diverges from the official numbers. Owners of the 2015 Sequoia often report experiencing fuel economy close to the EPA estimates, but it’s highly dependent on driving style and conditions. Aggressive acceleration, excessive idling, and frequent short trips are common reasons for lower-than-expected fuel economy. Maintaining proper tire inflation, performing regular maintenance, and employing smoother driving techniques can help owners achieve closer to the advertised figures, but realistically, expecting much beyond the EPA estimates is optimistic.

How it compares

When considering alternatives, the Sequoia’s fuel economy lands within the typical range for its class. A 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD with the 5.3L V8 is EPA-rated at 16 MPG combined, slightly better than the Sequoia. The Ford Expedition, with its 3.5L EcoBoost V6, achieves similar numbers, hovering around 15-16 MPG combined. The Nissan Armada, another full-size SUV, typically mirrors the Sequoia’s fuel economy. These comparisons depend on what a buyer prioritizes: is the slight MPG increase of the Tahoe’s 16 MPG enough to forego the Toyota’s reputation for bulletproof reliability? Or, is the proven V8 preferable to the twin-turbo V6 found in the Ford?

Consider all Toyota fuel economy data to see comparisons across the model line and consider SEQUOIA MPG across all years to inform yourself on older and newer offerings.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the easiest ways to improve fuel economy in the Sequoia is to adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking, and try to maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. The Sequoia’s weight and engine size mean that aggressive driving habits quickly translate to wasted fuel.

Proper tire inflation plays an important role in maximizing fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure that it meets the manufacturer’s recommended levels. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Limit unnecessary idling. Even when stationary, the 5.7L V8 is consuming fuel. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. This is particularly relevant for those who often find themselves waiting in carpool lines or at construction zones.

Consider reducing the weight you carry in the Sequoia. Removing unnecessary cargo can improve fuel economy, especially if it’s heavy. While the Sequoia is designed to haul, carrying around extra weight for no reason simply adds to the fuel consumption. This includes removing roof racks when they are not in use as they create unnecessary drag.