15 MPG combined. Let’s be clear: nobody buys a 2019 Toyota Sequoia 2WD with the 5.7L V8 looking for lower fuel costs. They buy it because they need to tow a boat, haul a Little League team, or simply project an image of unwavering capability. Fuel efficiency is, at best, a secondary concern. The Sequoia prioritizes space, strength, and undeniable presence over using less gas. This is a vehicle built for a specific purpose, and its fuel consumption reflects that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 Sequoia 2WD equipped with the 5.7L V8 and six-speed automatic transmission are 13 MPG in the city and 17 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the strain of moving nearly three tons of truck through stop-and-go traffic. Idling, frequent acceleration, and its sheer size all contribute to the low number. On the highway, things improve somewhat, but the Sequoia’s aerodynamics (or lack thereof) and the engine’s displacement still lead to a thirsty performance. While 17 MPG might seem reasonable for this type of vehicle, remember that many modern SUVs, even those with substantial towing capacity, achieve significantly better results.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this particular Sequoia configuration at $2,900. This is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. For Sequoia owners who tow frequently, drive more than 15,000 miles annually, or live in areas with higher fuel prices, the actual cost could be substantially higher. It is important to consider this figure when budgeting for vehicle ownership, as it represents a significant ongoing expense.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently achieve the EPA’s figures. Real-world driving conditions, including traffic, weather, and your driving style, will almost certainly impact your fuel economy. Aggressive acceleration, frequent towing, and carrying heavy loads will all drag down your MPG. Many owners average slightly below the EPA estimates in mixed driving. Conscientious drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration and minimize idling might get closer to the official numbers, however.

How it compares

Against its competition, the Sequoia fares… well, it’s competitive in its thirst. A comparable 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD with the 5.3L V8 manages a slightly better 15 MPG city and 22 MPG highway. The Ford Expedition, particularly with the EcoBoost engine, surpasses the Sequoia with ratings reaching 17 MPG city and 23 MPG highway on the 2WD variant. Even the Nissan Armada, another full-size SUV contender, posts similar numbers. The Sequoia’s fuel economy isn’t necessarily the worst in its class, but it’s definitely a factor to consider if you’re cross-shopping. For shoppers looking at all Toyota fuel economy data, there are much better options in the lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is key. Ensure that your Sequoia’s tires are properly inflated and that the engine is running smoothly with fresh oil and air filters. A well-maintained engine is an efficient engine. This is particularly important for a large displacement V8 like the Sequoia’s, which is sensitive to any performance-robbing inefficiencies.

Practice smooth acceleration and avoid hard braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. The Sequoia’s weight means that every sudden stop requires significant energy to overcome inertia and every acceleration requires a lot of fuel to get back up to speed.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The Sequoia’s large engine consumes a considerable amount of fuel even when idling. While not a huge problem on short stops, it can quickly add up over the course of a week.

Consider your route. Avoiding congested areas and stop-and-go traffic will significantly improve your fuel economy. The Sequoia’s size makes it less maneuverable in tight spaces, so planning your route to minimize city driving will benefit both your MPG and your stress levels.

If you don’t need 4WD, stick with the 2WD model. The added weight and mechanical drag of a four-wheel-drive system will further reduce fuel economy. 2WD offers similar towing capabilities and everyday use, so why pay the gas penalty when you don’t need it?

For more information on this model see the SEQUOIA MPG across all years.