15 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but it’s the price of admission for what the 2022 Toyota Sequoia 2WD 5.7L 8-cyl offers: truck-based durability, abundant space, and the genuine ability to tow heavy loads. This isn’t a vehicle cross-shopped against hybrid crossovers; it’s for buyers who prioritize capability and reliability above all else, and for whom fuel efficiency is a secondary concern, if a concern at all.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 13 MPG in the city and 17 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the realities of hauling around a vehicle that weighs well over 5,500 pounds and is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.7-liter V8. Stop-and-go driving in urban environments will always use a lot of gas, while highway cruising, despite the six-speed automatic transmission’s best efforts, reveals the inherent limitations of its brick-like aerodynamics. The Sequoia’s powertrain prioritizes low-end torque for towing and hauling, which helps in city driving but contributes to higher fuel consumption at higher speeds. The older six-speed transmission, while reliable and proven, lacks the extra gears of newer designs that can optimize fuel economy through a wider spread of ratios, keeping the engine in its most efficient range at different speeds.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2022 Toyota Sequoia 2WD 5.7L 8-cyl is $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the EPA’s combined MPG rating, and assumes national average fuel prices. It’s a significant expense to factor into the ownership equation, and potential buyers should consider whether this cost fits comfortably within their budget. Keep in mind that local fuel prices and individual driving habits can cause this figure to change. If you regularly tow or spend significant time in congested traffic, expect to exceed the $2,900 estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG can vary considerably. Aggressive acceleration, frequent towing, tire pressure, and even weather conditions can all impact fuel consumption. Sequoia owners report numbers that often are close to the EPA estimates, but those who frequently use the vehicle for its intended purpose of hauling or towing will likely see their MPG dip even lower. The Sequoia’s large fuel tank (26.4 gallons) does provide a decent range between fill-ups, mitigating some of the inconvenience of frequent refueling. Access SEQUOIA MPG across all years and driver forums for additional real-world feedback.

How it compares

The 2022 Sequoia’s fuel economy lags behind many of its competitors, but the comparison requires careful consideration. The Ford Expedition, with its turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6, achieves a combined MPG of around 19 MPG in its 2WD configuration, making it a noticeably more efficient option. The Chevrolet Tahoe with the 5.3L V8 manages around 18 MPG combined. These vehicles offer similar capabilities to the Sequoia, but with more modern powertrain technology that helps to improve fuel economy. However, some buyers still favor the Sequoia’s naturally aspirated V8 for its perceived simplicity and long-term durability. For those willing to sacrifice some interior space, the Toyota 4Runner, while smaller, offers a combined MPG of 17. Exploring all Toyota fuel economy data can help you understand the brand’s broader MPG performance.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and maintaining a steady speed are fundamental principles of fuel-efficient driving, and they apply to the Sequoia just as much as any other vehicle. Avoid abrupt starts and stops, anticipate traffic flow, and use cruise control on the highway whenever possible to minimize wasted fuel. The Sequoia is a heavy vehicle, and every unnecessary surge of power extracts a penalty at the pump.

Proper tire inflation is critical for both safety and fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate tires to the pressure recommended on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. Even a few PSI below the recommended pressure can have a noticeable impact over time.

Reduce unnecessary weight. The Sequoia is already a substantial vehicle, so avoid carrying around extra cargo that adds to the load. Removing items you don’t need from the interior and cargo area can incrementally improve fuel economy. Every pound saved reduces the amount of energy required to accelerate and maintain speed.

Consider your driving conditions. If possible, avoid driving during peak traffic hours, as stop-and-go conditions consume significantly more fuel. Plan your routes to minimize congestion and take advantage of alternative routes when available. Combining multiple errands into a single trip can also help to reduce overall fuel consumption.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and other essential services. Neglecting maintenance can lead to decreased performance and reduced fuel economy. Stick with the factory-recommended oil viscosity to ensure optimal lubrication and reduced friction.