Toyota Land Cruiser and Sequoia – What Are Differences Between Them

Toyota is globally recognized for producing reliable, durable vehicles that lead the market in various categories, including SUVs, sedans, pickups, and hatchbacks. The Toyota Sequoia and Land Cruiser, although similar in appearance, differ significantly in their interiors, engines, performance, and exteriors.

Introduced in 2000, the Sequoia is relatively newer compared to the Land Cruiser, which has been on the road since 1951. Known for its practical and diverse vehicle range, Toyota offers the Sequoia and Land Cruiser for those in search of robust, adventure-ready SUVs.

This article explores the differences between these two impressive vehicles. Read on to learn more about what sets them apart.

Comparison of Exterior

The Toyota Sequoia, a full-sized SUV primarily for the North American market, has its roots in the Tundra pickup truck.

Launched in 2000, it stands as Toyota’s largest SUV, second only to the Mega Cruiser, a military-focused model for the Japanese market.

Though the Sequoia sports a somewhat traditional exterior, its design resonates well with male buyers.

The Toyota Land Cruiser, a line of 4WD vehicles, is Toyota’s longest-standing series, with the first model rolling out in 1951.

Available in various styles, including hardtops, station wagons, cab chassis, and convertibles, the Land Cruiser’s durability and reliability have earned it immense popularity, particularly in Australia, where it’s the top-selling 4WD vehicle.

The Land Cruiser LC300 series boasts a striking exterior, standing out even when compared to the Toyota Sequoia. Its front design, complemented by an elegant grille, enhances its overall appeal.

Comparison of Interior

Cabin Storage: The Sequoia’s spacious cabin comfortably seats eight, boasting ample leg and headroom across all rows.

Unlike the Land Cruiser, the Sequoia’s interior prominently features heavier plastic materials. The cabin is replete with storage options, including compartments for essentials like sunglasses, drinks, purses, and phones.

The driver’s area features a central storage box, three cup holders, door pockets, and a glove compartment. The second row offers door pockets, while the third row has side panel pockets.

Cabin Storage: The Land Cruiser’s latest model flaunts a contemporary interior, featuring a well-organized cluster and a state-of-the-art infotainment system. The seating arrangement ensures maximum comfort and support for all passengers.

The cabin offers various storage solutions, suitable for items like sunglasses, phones, drinks, and purses. The front row provides two cup holders, a central storage box, door panel compartments, and a glove box. The second row has pockets behind the front seats and door panel storage.

Cargo Space: The Land Cruiser offers a more generous boot space than the Sequoia, ensuring ample room for luggage.

Engine & Performance

Latest Version: The most recent Toyota Sequoia model is equipped with a singular engine option: a 3.4L twin-turbo V6 gasoline hybrid engine. This engine, combined with a 2NM AC permanent magnet synchronous motor, delivers a combined system output of 437 hp (326 kW; 443 PS). It’s paired with a 10-speed AWR10L65 “ECTi Direct Shift” automatic transmission.

2nd Generation: The earlier models of the Sequoia had various engine options:

4.7L 2UZ-FE VVT-i V8 (2008–2009) producing 276 hp (206 kW; 280 PS)
4.6L 1UR-FE V8 (2010–2012) producing 310 hp (231 kW; 314 PS)
5.7L 3UR-FE V8 (2008–2022) producing 381 hp (284 kW; 386 PS)
5.7L 3UR-FBE V8 flex-fuel producing 381 hp (284 kW; 386 PS)

These engines were paired with either a 5-speed or 6-speed automatic transmission.

Latest LC J300 Series: The Land Cruiser LC J300 series provides two engine variants, available in both petrol and diesel:

3.4L V35A-FTS twin-turbo V6 (VJA300)
4.0L 1GR-FE V6 (GRJ300) petrol engine
3.3L F33A-FTV twin-turbo V6 (FJA300) diesel engine

These engines are mated to either a 6-speed automatic (GRJ300) or a 10-speed AWR10L65 automatic (VJA300/FJA300) transmission.

LC J200 Series: The LC J200 series had a variety of engine options:

4.0L 1GR-FE V6
4.6L 1UR-FE V8
4.7L 2UZ-FE V8
5.7L 3UR-FE V8 petrol engine
4.5L 1VD-FTV turbocharged V8 diesel engine

These engines were paired with transmissions ranging from 5-speed manual to 8-speed automatic.

Fuel Economy Comparison

The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser and Toyota Sequoia have similar fuel economy ratings, reflecting their efficiency despite their robust capabilities. When considering the evolution of automotive efficiency, advances in hybrid technology have played a pivotal role, exemplified by the remarkable fuel economy achieved by these models.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser: Equipped with a 2.4-liter hybrid powertrain, it achieves a combined fuel efficiency of 23 miles per gallon (MPG), with 22 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway.
2024 Toyota Sequoia: The 3.4-liter V6 hybrid engine in the 4×2 configuration offers slightly lower fuel efficiency, with 22 MPG combined, 21 MPG in the city, and 24 MPG on the highway. The four-wheel-drive versions, such as the Sequoia TRD Pro, have a fuel economy of 20 MPG combined, with 19 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway, reflecting a marginal decrease due to the added weight.

Tow Capacity

Toyota Sequoia

When it comes to towing capacity, the Toyota Sequoia stands out in the Toyota SUV lineup, offering the highest available capacity.

The Sequoia can tow up to 9,520 pounds, which varies depending on the trim model. This robust capacity makes it ideal for hauling large trailers, boats, and campers.

Land Cruiser

In contrast, the Toyota Land Cruiser has a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds across all its models.

While lower than the Sequoia, a 6,000-pound capacity still efficiently handles boats, motorcycles, small campers, and cargo trailers.

Both SUVs offer impressive towing capabilities, catering to different needs and preferences for adventure and utility.

Both SUVs offer impressive towing capabilities, catering to different needs and preferences for adventure and utility. Additionally, the towing capacity of the F-150, a popular choice among pickup trucks, rivals that of the Sequoia, with some configurations able to tow over 13,000 pounds, making it a versatile option for heavy-duty hauling.

Trim Levels

The Toyota Sequoia and Toyota Land Cruiser both offer a variety of trim levels, each equipped with unique features to cater to diverse preferences and needs.

For the Toyota Sequoia, the available trim models are:

Toyota Sequoia SR5: This is the base model, offering essential features and solid performance.
Toyota Sequoia Limited: A step up, it includes enhanced comfort features and additional tech upgrades.
Toyota Sequoia Platinum: This high-end trim offers luxury features, advanced technology, and superior comfort.
Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro: Designed for off-road adventures, this model is equipped with rugged features and enhanced durability.
Toyota Sequoia Capstone: The top-of-the-line trim, offering the best in luxury, technology, and performance within the Sequoia lineup.

The trim models for the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser are:

Toyota Land Cruiser: The standard model, which comes well-equipped with robust performance capabilities and essential features.
Toyota Land Cruiser 1958: A special edition model that includes unique styling cues and additional features commemorating the brand’s history.
Toyota Land Cruiser First Edition: Limited to 5,000 units in North America, this exclusive model offers premium features and unique design elements to distinguish it from the regular lineup.

Off-Road Capability

The 2024 models of the Toyota Land Cruiser and Toyota Sequoia are built with features that enhance their off-road performance:

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser: The Land Cruiser is inherently designed for off-road excellence. It features a 31-degree approach angle, a 25-degree breakover angle, and a 23-degree departure angle. The standard ground clearance is 8 inches. Higher trims come equipped with a stabilizer disconnect feature to improve wheel articulation during off-road driving.

2024 Toyota Sequoia: The Sequoia’s TRD Pro model is specially tuned for off-road challenges. It includes an electronic locking rear differential and a TRD-tuned off-road suspension with Fox shock absorbers. Additionally, it features a front skid plate to protect vital components. The Sequoia TRD Pro offers a 23-degree approach angle and a 20-degree departure angle, with a ground clearance ranging from 8.6 to 9.1 inches, which is slightly higher than the Land Cruiser.

The Tacoma TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road variants provide further options for off-road enthusiasts. The TRD Off-Road features multi-terrain select and crawl control, enhancing its capability over diverse landscapes.

FAQ

Which Vehicle Is More Affordable, the Toyota Sequoia or The Land Cruiser?

Typically, the Toyota Sequoia is priced lower than the Land Cruiser. The actual cost can vary depending on the model year and selected features, but generally, the Sequoia is the more budget-friendly option.

Is There a Hybrid Variant of The Toyota Sequoia Available?

Yes, the latest model of the Toyota Sequoia includes a hybrid engine option, combining traditional gasoline power with electric hybrid technology for enhanced fuel efficiency.

Which SUV Offers Better Towing Capacity?

Sequoia has a better towing capacity.

How Do the Interiors of The Two Vehicles Compare in Terms of Luxury and Refinement?

The Toyota Land Cruiser is typically perceived as more luxurious and refined, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a premium interior. The Sequoia, on the other hand, is more family-oriented, focusing on practicality and comfort for everyday use.

Final Thoughts

Toyota boasts a lineup of robust full-sized SUVs that offer both comfort and power, notably the Toyota Land Cruiser, Toyota Sequoia, and Toyota 4Runner.

When comparing the Toyota Sequoia and the Land Cruiser, it’s evident that both vehicles are meticulously crafted down to the finest detail.

They both prioritize comfort and performance. However, the latest Land Cruiser model edges out slightly with its enhanced cargo space, superior comfort, and heightened performance. Interestingly, their fuel efficiency is quite comparable.

The Sequoia is designed with families in mind, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and long road trips. On the other hand, the Land Cruiser, with its rich legacy and premium features, is perfect for those willing to invest in luxury and top-tier performance.

In terms of longevity, the Land Cruiser has a storied history that stands as a testament to its enduring quality. The Sequoia, though younger in the Toyota lineup, has quickly established itself as a reliable and sought-after SUV.

Srdjan Ilic

I am a Business Economics graduate from Singidunum University in Novi Sad, currently contributing to the Southwest Journal as a content creator and SEO team lead strategist. My professional journey includes a two-year period in Ocean City, USA, and extensive travels throughout Canada, experiences that have enriched my global outlook and influenced my writing style. Professionally, I am dedicated to producing engaging content and effective SEO strategies. Outside of work, I enjoy skiing and exploring new adventures, always valuing the power of human connections. My diverse skills and passion for life drive my success in various endeavors.

Toyota Land Cruiser and Sequoia – What Are Differences Between Them

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