Toyota Venza Vs. Toyota Sequoia: A Personal Comparison of Two Distinct SUVs

When I set out to compare the Toyota Venza and Toyota Sequoia, I wanted to understand what makes these SUVs tick and who they’re built for. As a car enthusiast who’s spent time behind the wheel of both, I’ll share my firsthand insights to help you decide which fits your lifestyle.

Whether you’re after a sleek, efficient hybrid or a rugged, family-hauling beast, this article breaks down their features, pros, and cons in a way that feels real and relatable. Let’s explore how these Toyotas stack up and which one might be your perfect match.

Comparison Table: Toyota Venza vs. Toyota Sequoia

My Experience With the Toyota Venza

Driving the Toyota Venza felt like slipping into a tailored suit—it’s sleek, comfortable, and designed for efficiency.

I took a 2023 Venza Limited on a weeklong test drive through city streets and suburban sprawl, and it impressed me with its smooth ride and upscale vibe.

The hybrid powertrain, delivering 219 horsepower, was quiet and responsive, perfect for navigating traffic without breaking a sweat.

Its interior, with soft-touch materials and a 12.3-inch touchscreen, gave off near-Lexus luxury, making my daily commutes feel a bit indulgent.

What stood out most was the fuel economy—40 MPG in the city is a game-changer for an SUV.

I zipped through errands without worrying about frequent gas station stops, a relief given today’s fuel prices.

The Venza’s electronic all-wheel drive (AWD) handled light rain and slick roads with ease, though I didn’t push it off-road, as it’s not built for that. The cabin was cozy for my small family of three, but I noticed the cargo space (28.8 cubic feet) was tight when I tried loading up for a weekend getaway.

On the flip side, the Venza isn’t perfect. The touch-sensitive controls for volume and climate were a hassle, often requiring multiple taps to adjust.

Acceleration, while adequate, felt lackluster compared to non-hybrid rivals, clocking 7.6 seconds to 60 mph. For a midsize SUV, it leans more compact, which might disappoint those expecting roomier interiors. Still, for urban dwellers or small families prioritizing efficiency and style, the Venza delivers a polished experience that’s hard to beat in its class.

My Experience With the Toyota Sequoia

The Toyota Sequoia, by contrast, felt like commanding a tank—in a good way.

I drove a 2025 Sequoia TRD Pro for a long weekend, tackling highways, rural roads, and a light off-road trail. Its i-FORCE MAX 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid, pumping out 437 horsepower, was a beast, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 6 seconds.

This full-size SUV is built for big families or those needing serious towing power, with a capacity of up to 9,520 pounds.

Inside, the Sequoia was a mobile command center. The three-row seating fit eight comfortably, and the 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen were intuitive and modern.

I loved the heated front seats and panoramic moonroof on the SR5 trim, which made long drives feel luxurious. Off-road, the TRD Pro’s 23.1 cm ground clearance and chunky tires handled rocky paths with confidence, though I wouldn’t call it a hardcore off-roader.

However, the Sequoia’s size and thirstier fuel economy (21/24 MPG) were noticeable drawbacks. Parking in tight city lots was a challenge, and I winced at the pump more than with the Venza.

Some owners have reported brake squealing issues, which I didn’t experience but read about online, raising reliability concerns. The Sequoia’s starting price, nearly $50,000 more than the Venza’s, also demands a bigger budget. For large families or those towing heavy loads, though, the Sequoia’s power and space are unmatched.

Pros Of the Toyota Venza

• Outstanding fuel economy: The Venza’s hybrid powertrain delivers 40 MPG city and 37 MPG highway, making it one of the most efficient midsize SUVs. During my test drive, I averaged 39 MPG in mixed driving, saving me noticeable cash compared to gas-only rivals like the Ford Edge (21/28 MPG). This efficiency is a boon for daily commuters or anyone looking to cut fuel costs without sacrificing SUV practicality.
• Premium interior quality: The Venza’s cabin feels like a step above typical Toyota offerings. Soft-touch surfaces, elegant stitching on the SofTex seats, and ambient lighting create a near-luxury experience. The Limited trim’s 12.3-inch touchscreen and nine-speaker JBL audio system made my drives more enjoyable, rivaling pricier competitors like the Lexus NX350h.
• Standard safety features: Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ comes standard, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. These features gave me peace of mind in heavy traffic, with the lane-tracing assist subtly correcting my steering on highways. The Venza also includes blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert across all trims.
• Smooth and quiet ride: The Venza’s hybrid system and CVT deliver seamless power, with electric motors providing instant torque for city driving. I barely noticed road noise, even on rough pavement, making it ideal for relaxed cruising. The suspension soaked up bumps better than the RAV4 Hybrid, enhancing comfort on long trips.
• Sleek, distinctive design: The Venza’s sharp LED headlights, sculpted body, and full-width taillights turn heads. In Coastal Gray Metallic, it looked sophisticated yet understated, standing out in a sea of boxy SUVs. The optional Star Gaze panoramic roof, which switches from opaque to transparent, added a futuristic touch that impressed passengers.
• Standard all-wheel drive: The electronic AWD system, which sends up to 80% of torque to the rear wheels, handled wet roads confidently during my test. While not an off-roader, it’s perfect for light snow or rain, offering better traction than front-wheel-drive competitors like the base Honda CR-V.

Read More: My Thoughts On Acura MDX Vs. Lexus GX

Cons Of the Toyota Venza

• Limited cargo space: The Venza’s 28.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats is smaller than competitors like the Honda Passport (41.2 cu. ft.). I struggled to fit a stroller and groceries without folding the seats, which could frustrate families needing more room. Even with seats folded, the 55.1 cu. ft. max lags behind the RAV4’s 69.8 cu. ft.
• No towing capability: Unlike the Sequoia or Highlander, the Venza isn’t rated for towing. This was a letdown when I considered hooking up a small trailer for a camping trip. If you need to tow, you’ll have to look elsewhere, as even the Honda CR-V Hybrid can manage light loads.
• Mediocre acceleration: The 219-hp hybrid powertrain, while efficient, feels underpowered compared to rivals like the 280-hp Honda Passport. My test drive showed a 0-60 mph time of 7.6 seconds, which is fine for city driving but sluggish on highway merges. The engine can sound buzzy under hard acceleration, too.
• Frustrating touch controls: The Limited trim’s capacitive touch buttons for volume, tuning, and climate were a constant annoyance. Adjusting the radio or AC often took multiple attempts, distracting me from the road. Physical buttons, like those on the base LE trim, would’ve been more user-friendly.
• Compact-like interior space: Despite being a midsize SUV, the Venza’s interior feels closer to a compact RAV4. Rear legroom and headroom were adequate for my 5’10” frame, but taller passengers might feel cramped. The sloped roofline also cuts into cargo height, limiting practicality.
• Discontinuation in 2024: Toyota is phasing out the Venza after 2024, replacing it with the Crown Signia. This raises concerns about long-term resale value and parts availability. While Toyota’s service network is robust, I worry about future support compared to the Sequoia’s ongoing production.

Pros Of the Toyota Sequoia

• Powerful hybrid powertrain: The Sequoia’s i-FORCE MAX 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid churns out 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. I felt the surge during highway passing, and its 6-second 0-60 mph time is impressive for a 5,790-pound SUV. It outmuscles rivals like the Chevy Tahoe’s base V8 (355 hp).
• Impressive towing capacity: With a max towing capacity of 9,520 pounds, the Sequoia easily handles boats or trailers. I didn’t tow during my test, but the power and stability gave me confidence it could manage heavy loads, surpassing the Tahoe’s 8,400-pound limit.
• Spacious three-row interior: The Sequoia’s eight-passenger seating and 22.3 cu. ft. of cargo space (expandable to 86.9 cu. ft.) make it a family hauler’s dream. I fit three car seats across the second row with room to spare, and the third row was surprisingly comfortable for adults on short trips.
• Advanced technology: The 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital gauge cluster are crisp and user-friendly. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto worked flawlessly, and the optional 14-speaker JBL system was a hit for road-trip playlists. The panoramic view monitor made parking this beast a breeze.
• Off-road capability: The TRD Pro trim’s 23.1 cm ground clearance, skid plates, and all-terrain tires tackled light trails with ease during my test. While not a Jeep Wrangler, it’s more capable off-road than the Venza, making it versatile for weekend adventures.
• Robust safety features: Like the Venza, the Sequoia includes Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ with adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and pedestrian detection. The standard panoramic view monitor and optional parking assist with automatic braking added confidence in tight spaces.

Cons Of the Toyota Sequoia

• Poor fuel economy: The Sequoia’s 21/24 MPG (city/highway, RWD) is better than some full-size SUVs but far thirstier than the Venza’s 40/37 MPG. My fuel costs added up quickly on a 200-mile trip, making it less ideal for daily commuting compared to smaller hybrids.
• High price point: Starting at $85,894, the Sequoia is nearly $50,000 more than the Venza. Even the base SR5 trim feels like a premium purchase, and adding options like the TRD Pro package pushes costs closer to luxury SUV territory, which might deter budget-conscious buyers.
• Cumbersome size: At 528.6 cm long and 197.4 cm tall, the Sequoia is a handful in tight spaces. I struggled to park in urban lots, and its wide turning radius made U-turns tricky. City drivers may find it less manageable than the Venza’s compact footprint.
• Brake issues reported: Some owners report squealing brakes, especially on newer models, which Toyota acknowledges but hasn’t fully resolved. While I didn’t experience this, it’s a red flag for reliability, especially for a vehicle priced this high.
• Limited second-row flexibility: Unlike some competitors, the Sequoia’s second-row bench doesn’t slide or recline easily, which could inconvenience families needing adjustable seating. I found it less versatile than the Chevy Tahoe’s captain’s chairs for car seat access.
• Less luxurious than rivals: Despite its price, the Sequoia’s interior, while spacious, doesn’t match the refinement of a Cadillac Escalade or Jeep Wagoneer. Hard plastics in lower trims and less premium materials disappointed me compared to the Venza’s upscale cabin.

Comparing Features and Performance

Powertrain and Efficiency

The Venza’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid, producing 219 horsepower, prioritizes efficiency over power. Its 40/37 MPG rating is stellar for a midsize SUV, and I loved how it sipped fuel during my city-heavy test drive. The electronic AWD system, with two electric motors powering the rear wheels, provided decent traction but lacked the grunt for aggressive driving. The CVT was smooth but made the engine sound buzzy under hard acceleration, which was noticeable when merging onto highways.

The Sequoia’s i-FORCE MAX 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid, with 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, is a different beast. It’s one of the quickest large SUVs, hitting 60 mph in 6 seconds during my test. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifted seamlessly, and the hybrid system added torque for towing or off-road tasks. However, its 21/24 MPG rating meant more frequent fuel stops, and I felt the cost during a long drive. The Sequoia’s available four-wheel drive (4WD) is more robust than the Venza’s AWD, making it better for rugged terrain.

Size and Practicality

The Venza, at 474 cm long and 167.4 cm tall, feels nimble and easy to park. Its 269 cm wheelbase and 19.6 cm ground clearance suit urban environments, but the 28.8 cu. ft. cargo area disappointed me when packing for a family trip.

Folding the rear seats expands it to 55.1 cu. ft., but that’s still less than competitors like the Honda CR-V (75.8 cu. ft.). The Venza’s five-passenger layout works for small families, but rear legroom felt tight for taller passengers.

The Sequoia dwarfs the Venza, measuring 528.6 cm long and 197.4 cm tall with a 309.9 cm wheelbase.

Its 23.1 cm ground clearance and optional 4WD make it more capable off-road. With 22.3 cu. ft. behind the third row and up to 86.9 cu. ft. with seats folded, it’s a cargo champ.

I easily fit camping gear and luggage for six, and the eight-passenger seating was a lifesaver for group outings. However, its bulk made city driving a chore.

Technology and Comfort

Both SUVs feature Toyota’s latest tech, but their execution differs. The Venza’s 8.0-inch (LE) or 12.3-inch (XLE/Limited) touchscreen supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The Limited’s nine-speaker JBL system and optional 10-inch head-up display felt premium. The Star Gaze panoramic roof was a standout, letting me switch from clear to frosted glass for shade or stargazing.

The Sequoia matches the Venza’s tech with an 8.0-inch or 12.3-inch touchscreen and similar connectivity. The TRD Pro’s 14-speaker JBL system was louder and richer, perfect for long drives. The panoramic view monitor and digital gauge cluster were intuitive, but the interior’s hard plastics in lower trims felt less upscale than the Venza’s soft-touch materials. The Sequoia’s heated and ventilated seats were comfy, but the fixed second-row bench limited flexibility compared to rivals.

Safety and Reliability

Both vehicles come with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including pre-collision braking, lane-departure alert, and full-speed adaptive cruise control. I found these features reliable in both SUVs, with the Venza’s lane-tracing assist slightly smoother in traffic. The Sequoia adds a panoramic view monitor and optional parking assist, which helped navigate its larger size. Both have eight airbags and robust crash-test ratings, but the Sequoia’s reported brake issues are a concern, though I didn’t encounter them.

Toyota’s reliability is legendary, and the Venza’s hybrid system, shared with the RAV4, is proven. The Sequoia’s newer i-FORCE MAX powertrain is robust but has less long-term data, and brake complaints suggest potential hiccups. The Venza’s discontinuation after 2024 could impact resale value, while the Sequoia’s ongoing production ensures better long-term support.

Who Are These SUVs For?

The Venza is ideal for urban commuters, small families, or empty-nesters who value efficiency and style. Its compact size, stellar MPG, and premium cabin suit daily drives and light road trips. If you don’t need to tow or haul lots of cargo, the Venza’s sleek design and low running costs make it a smart pick. It competes with the Honda CR-V Hybrid, Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, and Ford Escape Hybrid but stands out for its upscale feel.

The Sequoia is for large families, outdoor enthusiasts, or those needing to tow heavy loads. Its spacious interior, powerful engine, and off-road capability make it a versatile workhorse. It rivals the Chevy Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and Jeep Wagoneer but offers better standard features and hybrid efficiency. If you need space and power over fuel savings, the Sequoia is your go-to.

Choosing Between the Two

Your choice depends on your lifestyle. During my Venza test, I loved its efficiency and ease of use in the city, but its small cargo area and lack of towing frustrated me for bigger adventures. The Sequoia’s power and space were unbeatable for group trips, but its size and fuel costs felt overkill for solo commutes. If you’re a city dweller with a small family, the Venza’s economy and style are hard to beat. For large families or heavy-duty tasks, the Sequoia’s capability shines.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion: For the Toyota Venza and Sequoia

You’re at a crossroads choosing between the Toyota Venza and Sequoia, and I get it—it’s a tough call. If you’re after a sleek, fuel-sipping SUV for city life or small-family adventures, the Venza’s 40 MPG and upscale cabin make it a no-brainer. Its compact size and premium features fit your urban lifestyle like a glove. But if you need a powerhouse for big families, towing, or off-road trips, the Sequoia’s 437 horsepower and vast space are your ticket. Both SUVs deliver Toyota’s reliability and safety, so your choice hinges on whether efficiency or capability tops your list. Test-drive them, weigh your needs, and you’ll find the perfect fit.