Toyota Sequoia vs. My Old SUVs: Is It Actually an Upgrade?

As a car enthusiast, collector, and content creator, I’ve had the chance to own and drive a wide range of SUVs over the years. From the old-school charm of the Jeep Grand Wagoneer to the refined reliability of the Lexus GX460, I’ve experienced the full spectrum of what makes an SUV great (and sometimes not so great). Now, after two years of ownership, I’m putting the 2023 Toyota Sequoia to the test against some of my past favorites. Is it truly an upgrade? Let’s break it down.

Sequoia vs. GMC Yukon: Space, Comfort, and Tech

Interior Space and Cargo Room

One of the first things I noticed when comparing the Sequoia to my wife’s 2019 GMC Yukon is how much larger the Sequoia feels inside. The cabin is wider, giving both the driver and passenger more breathing room. Toyota really nailed the front-seat ergonomics, making long road trips comfortable.

However, where the Sequoia falls short is in its cargo area. Thanks to the hybrid battery placement and the design of the third-row seats, the rear floor is raised—meaning less usable cargo space. In contrast, the Yukon’s cargo area is more functional, offering a lower, flatter load floor. If you regularly haul large items, pets, or even just a bunch of luggage, this is something to keep in mind.

Driving Experience & Technology

Both SUVs are solid road-trip machines, but the Sequoia has a clear edge when it comes to power and tech. Its twin-turbo V6 hybrid delivers impressive acceleration, making it fun to drive despite its size. It’s a noticeable step up from the naturally aspirated V8 in the Yukon, which—while reliable—can feel sluggish in comparison.

On the tech side, the Sequoia is definitely an upgrade. The 2019 Yukon has had its fair share of electrical quirks, while the Sequoia’s infotainment and driver-assist features feel more refined and reliable. Toyota’s updated software and massive touchscreen make a big difference in daily usability.

The Lexus GX460: The Gold Standard for Reliability

If there’s one SUV that set the bar high for me, it’s the 2011 Lexus GX460. I bought it used in 2012 with just 20,000 miles, and that thing was rock solid. For over a decade, I never felt the need to upgrade—because, honestly, why would I?

• Build Quality: The GX460 was engineered to last, with a bulletproof 4.6L V8 and body-on-frame construction.
• Reliability: I never had a major issue with it. Even as it racked up miles, it remained as dependable as day one.
• Longevity: When my daughter turned 16, I passed it down to her, and it’s still going strong today.

While the 2023 Sequoia has modern features that the GX never did, I wonder if it will have the same legendary durability. Only time will tell.

The First-Gen Toyota Sequoia: A True Workhorse

Another SUV that holds a special place in my heart is the first-generation Toyota Sequoia. I initially owned a 2003 model before passing it on to my father-in-law, who still drives it today—now with over 240,000 miles on the odometer.

This thing is the definition of bulletproof.

• Simplicity: No hybrid batteries, no overcomplicated tech—just a straightforward, well-built machine.
• Ease of Maintenance: Unlike modern SUVs that rely heavily on electronics, the first-gen Sequoia is relatively easy to work on.
• Longevity: With proper care, these things can easily hit 500,000+ miles. Some owners have even pushed them beyond a million!

Comparing it to the 2023 Sequoia is tricky. The new model is faster, more luxurious, and packed with tech—but will it still be running strong two decades from now like its predecessor? That’s the real question.

Final Verdict: Is the 2023 Sequoia an Upgrade?

After two years of ownership, I can confidently say that the 2023 Sequoia is a solid SUV. It’s powerful, packed with modern features, and offers a spacious and comfortable cabin. But is it a true upgrade compared to the SUVs I’ve owned before?

• Compared to the Yukon: The Sequoia wins on power and technology but loses on cargo space.
• Compared to the GX460: The Sequoia has better performance and features, but it has yet to prove its long-term reliability.
• Compared to the first-gen Sequoia: The 2003 model is still going strong, while the 2023 version is still too new to say if it will live up to that legacy.

For now, I’d call it a mixed bag. The 2023 Sequoia is an upgrade in many ways, but it also comes with trade-offs. If Toyota’s reputation for reliability holds up, this could be a long-term winner. But if I had to bet on which SUV would still be running 20 years from now? My money’s on the old-school Sequoia and the GX460.

Time will tell.