14 MPG combined. That’s the reality for the 2017 Toyota Sequoia 4WD FFV 5.7L 8-cyl, and it’s a number that elicits groans from some and shrugs from others. The difference lies in understanding what this Sequoia is: a body-on-frame behemoth built for serious towing capacity and hauling a large family in comfort, and frequently off the beaten path. This isn’t for those worried about fuel costs, but for those who genuinely *need* this level of capability, fuel economy is simply a lower priority than getting the job done.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 13 MPG in the city and 17 MPG on the highway. These numbers paint a predictable picture: the Sequoia’s considerable weight and the 5.7L V8’s thirst for fuel are most pronounced in stop-and-go traffic. Highway driving, while still not stellar, allows the engine to settle into a more efficient cruising speed, though any significant inclines or headwinds will quickly impact that 17 MPG figure. The automatic transmission’s six speeds help somewhat, but cannot fully compensate for the aerodynamic profile of a brick.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for this Sequoia at $3,150. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a significant sum, placing the Sequoia firmly in the category of vehicles with high running costs. Prospective buyers should factor this expense into their budget, acknowledging that fluctuations in fuel prices will impact this number. Consider it a baseline for your own calculations, adjusting for your personal driving habits and local fuel costs.

Real-world expectations

Forget about hitting 17 MPG consistently unless you’re exclusively on flat highway stretches and drive with extreme gentleness. In the real world, expect figures closer to 11-14 MPG in mixed driving. Towing will plummet your fuel economy into single digits, a harsh reality to accept. Headwinds, hills, and a heavy foot will all conspire to drain the fuel tank faster than the EPA estimates suggest. Understanding this is critical before committing to ownership.

How it compares

The Sequoia isn’t alone in the full-size SUV segment, and its fuel economy should be viewed in context. A 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD with the 5.3L V8 manages around 19 MPG highway, a noticeable improvement. Ford’s 2017 Expedition 4WD, despite similar dimensions, also sees figures slightly higher than the Sequoia as well. Even a Nissan Armada manages to hit similar or slightly better numbers than the Sequoia. For those considering alternatives, it’s important to weigh the fuel economy differences against other factors like towing capacity, interior space, and reliability ratings. If you’re looking for more options you can review all Toyota fuel economy data on this site. You can also see SEQUOIA MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The Sequoia’s V8 is responsive, but every stab of the throttle guzzles fuel. Gently accelerate from a stop and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary bursts of speed.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels found on the door jamb sticker.

Reduce unnecessary weight. The Sequoia is already a heavy vehicle, so avoid carrying unnecessary cargo. Remove items from the cargo area and roof rack that aren’t needed, as every extra pound impacts fuel economy.

Plan your trips and combine errands. Multiple short trips consume more fuel than one longer trip covering the same distance. Combine errands and plan your routes to minimize cold starts and unnecessary driving.

Consider the grade of fuel. While the Sequoia 5.7L is a flexible fuel vehicle, it is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline. There’s little evidence to support that premium fuel will positively affect the fuel economy here.