14 MPG combined. The 2018 Toyota Sequoia 4WD with its 5.7L V8 isn’t exactly fuel-efficient. But this isn’t a vehicle for those prioritizing less gas. This is for families who need to tow a boat, haul a little league team, and don’t want to worry when the road gets snowy or rough. It’s a body-on-frame SUV built for serious work and passenger capacity, accepting the fuel-economy realities of that mission.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Sequoia 4WD at 13 MPG in the city and 17 MPG on the highway. Those numbers reflect the demands placed on the 5.7L V8 and the six-speed automatic transmission. City driving, with its constant stop-and-go, highlights the Sequoia’s weight and the engine’s need to overcome inertia. Highway figures are a bit better, but the Sequoia’s large profile and permanent four-wheel-drive system still create significant drag, preventing truly efficient cruising.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Toyota Sequoia 4WD to be $3,150. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a blend of city and highway driving, and assuming national average fuel prices. Your personal fuel costs will vary depending on how you drive, where you drive, and the prevailing price of gasoline in your area. Consider this number a benchmark for comparison against other large SUVs, and factor in your own driving habits to realistically estimate ownership expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized test, real-world fuel economy often differs. Sequoia owners report figures in line with, or even slightly below, the EPA estimates. Expect around 11-14 MPG in typical city driving, and potentially nudging 18 MPG on long highway trips if you’re diligent about maintaining a steady speed. Towing, especially heavy loads, will drastically reduce fuel economy, potentially dipping into the single digits. Understanding that is important for Sequoia owners who rely on this vehicle’s strong towing capabilities.

How it compares

The Sequoia’s fuel economy is in line with its competitors. For example, the Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD with the 5.3L V8 is rated at 16 MPG combined, offering a slight advantage. Similarly, the Ford Expedition 4×4 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 manages around 19 MPG combined, demonstrating the benefits of a smaller-displacement, turbocharged engine in this class. Even the Nissan Armada, a direct rival, achieves around 14 MPG combined. While these differences might seem small, they can add up over the course of a year. Buyers choosing the Sequoia are typically prioritizing its proven reliability and strong construction over outright fuel efficiency. For those interested in all all Toyota fuel economy data, additional comparisons are readily available. You can also review SEQUOIA MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Adopt a smooth and gradual acceleration style. The Sequoia’s V8 has plenty of torque, so there’s no need to aggressively push the throttle. Gentle acceleration will minimize fuel consumption, particularly in city driving.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels listed on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling around extra cargo not only affects handling but also reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the vehicle to lighten the load and improve efficiency.

Plan your routes efficiently. Avoid congested areas and traffic jams whenever possible. Opt for routes with fewer stops and starts to maintain a more consistent speed and minimize fuel consumption. The Sequoia’s size might make it ill-suited for cramped city streets anyway.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed can help optimize fuel economy on long highway drives. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the transmission may downshift frequently, negating any potential fuel savings.