The 2018 Toyota Sequoia 2WD with the 5.7L V8 gets 15 MPG combined. Nobody buys a Sequoia expecting Prius-like efficiency. It’s a body-on-frame SUV designed for serious towing, hauling families, and tackling rough terrain. Owners accept the fuel consumption because it’s the price for the capability and durability the Sequoia offers, qualities that have solidified its reputation over the years.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 Sequoia 2WD are 13 MPG in the city and 17 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects driving a large, heavy vehicle in stop-and-go traffic. If your daily commute involves navigating congested urban areas, expect frequent trips to the pump. The highway number is slightly more palatable, but still far from impressive. A careful driver maintaining steady speeds on flat terrain might approach the EPA estimate, but hilly conditions and aggressive driving will quickly diminish those gains.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says that the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Toyota Sequoia 2WD 5.7L V8 is approximately $2,900. This figure is calculated based on 15,000 miles of driving per year, with an assumed fuel price reflecting the national average. This is just an estimate. Your actual fuel expenses will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and fluctuating gas prices. Expect to exceed this figure considerably if you regularly tow or spend a significant portion of your time in stop-and-go traffic.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized baseline, but real-world MPG often differs. Sequoia owners report experiencing slightly lower MPG than the EPA estimates, particularly in mixed driving conditions. Factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and the weight of cargo can all impact fuel economy. It’s important to track your own fuel consumption to get a more accurate picture of what you’re spending. Regularly using the Sequoia to its full potential, hauling heavy loads or towing trailers, will also significantly affect your gas mileage.

How it compares

The Sequoia’s fuel economy places it squarely in the range of other large, truck-based SUVs. For example, the Chevrolet Tahoe with the 5.3L V8 can achieve a slightly better 18 MPG combined, showing advancements in GM’s engine technology. The Ford Expedition, particularly with its EcoBoost engine, offers a marginally improved 17 MPG combined, highlighting the benefits of turbocharging in a large SUV. These differences, while seemingly small, can add up over years of ownership.

The Nissan Armada, another direct competitor, mirrors the Sequoia with a 15 MPG combined rating, reinforcing that this level of efficiency is typical for this class of vehicle. Before making a decision, consider comparing all Toyota fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth acceleration and consistent speeds are key. The Sequoia’s large V8 responds well to gentle inputs. Avoid sudden bursts of acceleration and maintain a steady pace on the highway to conserve fuel. Using cruise control can help maintain a constant speed, especially on long journeys, but be mindful of hilly terrain, which can cause frequent downshifts and reduce efficiency.

Regular maintenance is essential. Ensure your Sequoia is properly maintained, with properly inflated tires, clean air filters, and regular oil changes. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, reducing engine efficiency. Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule will keep your Sequoia running smoothly and efficiently.

Reduce unnecessary weight. The Sequoia is already a heavy vehicle, so avoid carrying around unnecessary cargo. Remove any items from the cargo area that you don’t need on a daily basis. Extra weight puts a strain on the engine and reduces fuel economy. A roof rack should only be installed when needed, as wind resistance plays a role in gas mileage.

Consider tire selection. The type of tires you use can affect fuel economy. Choose tires that are designed for fuel efficiency. These tires typically have lower rolling resistance, which can translate into improved MPG. Check the tire pressure regularly to ensure they are properly inflated, as this also contributes to fuel efficiency.

Plan your trips strategically. Combine errands into a single trip to minimize cold starts. Cold starts are particularly fuel-inefficient. Avoid peak traffic hours, if possible, as stop-and-go traffic significantly reduces fuel economy. Consider alternate routes that may be longer but have less traffic congestion. Investigate SEQUOIA MPG across all years if you’re open to different model years.