15 MPG combined is the stark reality facing anyone considering the 2016 Toyota Sequoia 2WD with the 5.7L V8. People aren’t buying this Sequoia for Prius-rivaling efficiency. They’re buying it for its large towing capacity, its cavernous interior capable of hauling a small football team, and the legendary Toyota reliability that suggests it will still be running long after many other SUVs have surrendered to the junkyard. This fuel economy is simply the price of admission to a certain kind of capability, a capability that few other vehicles can match.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Sequoia 2WD V8 break down to 13 MPG in the city and 17 MPG on the highway. The city figure, in particular, probably won’t surprise anyone who’s wrestled this beast through stop-and-go traffic. The Sequoia’s considerable weight and displacement demand a lot of fuel to get moving from a standstill. The highway number is slightly more palatable, but still lags behind most modern SUVs. The six-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth and responsive, but its age shows in its inability to maximize fuel efficiency like the eight, nine, or even ten-speed transmissions found in some competing vehicles. It’s a trade-off: proven durability versus cutting-edge efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Toyota Sequoia 2WD 5.7L V8 is approximately $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Drivers who primarily use the Sequoia for shorter trips, heavy towing, or live in areas with higher gas prices should expect to spend significantly more. Think of this figure as a baseline, a somewhat optimistic estimate that underscores the impact this vehicle will have on your budget.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a valuable baseline, it’s important to consider real-world experiences. Sequoia owners report average MPG figures that are slightly lower than the EPA estimates, especially when regularly towing or carrying heavy loads. Factors like driving style (aggressive acceleration burns fuel), terrain (hills will lower MPG), and tire pressure (underinflated tires reduce efficiency) can all influence fuel consumption. Plan to monitor your fuel consumption and adjust your driving habits as needed.

How it compares

The Sequoia doesn’t have many fuel-sipping competitors. The Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, both powered by their 5.3L V8 engines, offer slightly better fuel economy, typically managing around 16 MPG combined, but their interiors often feel less spacious than the Sequoia’s, and their reliability records don’t quite match Toyota’s. The Ford Expedition, especially with the turbocharged EcoBoost V6, can achieve around 17 MPG combined and offers a more modern driving experience. For those considering alternatives within the Toyota family, it’s worth exploring all Toyota fuel economy data, although nothing else in the lineup truly delivers the Sequoia’s combination of space and capability. Comparing SEQUOIA MPG across all years can also highlight gradual changes in efficiency across its production run. Ultimately, the Sequoia buyer is prioritizing size, strength, and long-term reliability over outright fuel efficiency, even if competitors offer a marginal advantage.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Sequoia’s 5.7L V8 is a thirsty engine, but even with its strong power output, there are ways to make the most of every gallon. Maintain proper tire inflation, as even a small difference can noticeably impact fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, specifically before long trips, to ensure optimal rolling resistance.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking whenever possible. The Sequoia’s weight requires significant energy to accelerate, and abrupt stops waste that energy. Instead, adopt a smooth and gradual driving style, anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a consistent speed whenever possible.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling around extra cargo adds load to the engine and decreases fuel efficiency. Remove any items from the vehicle that aren’t essential, especially heavy objects, to lighten the load and improve gas mileage.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed can help optimize fuel consumption on long, open stretches of road. However, be mindful of hills and adjust your speed as needed to avoid excessive downshifting.

Finally, ensure that your Sequoia is properly maintained. Regular tune-ups, including oil changes and filter replacements, can keep the engine running efficiently and help prevent fuel-wasting problems. A well-maintained Sequoia is a more efficient Sequoia.