Toyota Sequoia vs Toyota Land Cruiser: Which SUV Wins?

The Toyota Sequoia and Toyota Land Cruiser are two full-size SUVs known for their power, reliability, and off-road capability. While both models offer rugged performance and spacious interiors, they cater to slightly different audiences. The Sequoia emphasizes family comfort and towing power, while the Land Cruiser focuses on luxury and unmatched off-road prowess.

This article compares the Toyota Sequoia vs Toyota Land Cruiser in key areas such as performance, design, interior comfort, fuel efficiency, off-road ability, and price. We’ll also explore their pros and cons to help buyers choose the SUV that best fits their needs. Whether you prioritize adventure, daily driving, or family road trips, understanding how these SUVs differ will guide you to the right choice.

Best Suited for

For off-road adventurers and luxury seekers, the Toyota Land Cruiser is the better choice. Renowned for its world-class off-road capabilities, full-time 4WD system, and rugged body-on-frame construction, the Land Cruiser is ideal for those who frequently drive in tough terrains or remote areas. It also offers a refined interior with upscale materials and advanced driver-assist features, making it perfect for users who want a harmonious blend of ruggedness and comfort.

For large families or users who prioritize interior space and towing, the Toyota Sequoia stands out. It offers more third-row legroom and cargo space than the Land Cruiser, making it more practical for road trips and daily use with multiple passengers. Its powerful V8 engine and high towing capacity make it suitable for those who frequently haul trailers, boats, or campers. In summary, choose the Land Cruiser if your focus is adventure and luxury, and go with the Sequoia if you need family-friendly space and towing performance in an SUV.

For a deeper comparison between the Toyota Sequoia and Toyota 4Runner, be sure to check out our detailed article covering their features, performance, and key differences. Click here to explore more.
Toyota Sequoia vs Toyota 4Runner Comparison

Toyota Sequoia vs Toyota Land Cruiser Side-by-Side Comparison

	Toyota Sequoia	Toyota Land Cruiser
Engine & Power	3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid engine	3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 326 horsepower
Torque	583 lb-ft of torque	465 lb-ft of torque
Fuel Economy	21 MPG city / 24 MPG highway (for hybrid model)	Approximately 17 MPG city / 20 MPG highway
Towing Capacity	Towing Capacity Up to 9,000 lbs (with proper equipment)	Up to 8,000 lbs
Off-Road Capability	Up to 8 passengers, leather upholstery and upscale materials, 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, Up to 49 cubic feet with the third row folded down	Up to 8 passengers, leather upholstery and upscale materials, 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, Up to 49 cubic feet with the third row folded down Seats up to 5 passengers in the 2024 model, 8-inch or available 12.3-inch touchscreen display, Around 37.5 cubic feet behind the second row, Center console cooler box available in select trims
Technology & Safety Features	Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control	Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection​, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control​, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist​, Lane Tracing Assist

Toyota Sequoia Price

2023 Toyota Sequoia

US $ 106,470

Toyota Land Cruiser Price

2018 Toyota Land Cruiser	US $ 42,480 – US $ 65,170
2019 Toyota Land Cruiser	US $ 29,110 – US $ 70,620
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser	US $ 50,830 – US $ 141,480

Fuel Consumption & Engine

Toyota Sequoia (2023- present):
The latest Sequoia comes exclusively with a 3.4L twin-turbo V6 hybrid engine (i-Force MAX), producing 437 horsepower and 583 lb.-ft of torque. This setup combines power and efficiency, offering an EPA-estimated 8.93 km/l / 10.2km/l highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient full-size SUVs in its class. Its hybrid system not only improves fuel economy but also reduces emissions, giving it an edge in environmental impact compared to traditional V8s.

Toyota Land Cruiser (2024 US Model):
The 2024 Land Cruiser has downsized from its former V8 to a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder hybrid (i-Force MAX), delivering 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. While not as powerful as the Sequoia, it offers better fuel efficiency for its class, with an EPA-estimated 9.4km/l city / 10.6km/l highway. The smaller engine and hybrid tech make it more eco-conscious and suitable for mixed urban-offroad use.

Comparison:

• Power: Sequoia wins with higher horsepower and torque.
  
• Fuel Economy: The Land Cruiser edges out the Sequoia slightly.
  
• Environmental Impact: Both are hybrids, but the Land Cruiser’s smaller engine is more efficient overall.
  

Choose the Sequoia for maximum power and towing; choose the Land Cruiser for better everyday fuel economy and lower emissions.

For a detailed look at the differences across the 2000-2023 Toyota Sequoia generations, check out our in-depth article that covers all the key changes and updates over the years. Click here to learn more.
Toyota Sequoia (2000-2023) Model Year Differences and Improvements

Body Styles

Toyota Land Cruiser:

The Land Cruiser is globally known for offering multiple body styles, including the Pickup (70 Series), Troop Carrier (Troopy), Van, and the classic SUV.

• The Pickup is favored for its utility and durability in remote regions, offering rugged off-road capability along with a flatbed for cargo or equipment.
  
• The Troop Carrier (Troopy) is specifically designed for transporting multiple passengers or gear over long distances, often used in expeditions and humanitarian work.
  
• The Van configuration is used commercially, providing enclosed cargo space while maintaining off-road performance.
  
• The newer Land Cruiser SUV (300 and 250 Series) maintains the model’s off-road roots with a more refined design, catering to families and urban users.
  

Toyota Sequoia:

The Sequoia is offered strictly as a full-size SUV. It features a bold, muscular exterior, three-row seating, and a spacious interior. Designed for families, road trips, and towing, its SUV-only format emphasizes passenger comfort and cargo capacity over body style variety.

Comparison:

• Versatility: Land Cruiser offers multiple body styles for diverse needs (utility, expedition, commercial use).
  
• Passenger Comfort: The sequoia excels with its spacious seating and a refined SUV design.
  
• Off-Road Use: Land Cruiser body styles like the Pickup and Troopy, are better suited for extreme terrain.
  

Choose the Land Cruiser for its versatility and rugged options; choose the Sequoia for a modern, family-focused SUV.

Interior

Both the Toyota Sequoia and Land Cruiser offer upscale interiors, but they cater to slightly different user needs. Shared features include high-quality materials, digital instrument clusters, large infotainment displays equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and advanced driver-assist technologies like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

The Sequoia leans heavily toward family comfort and spaciousness. It provides generous third-row seating, ample cargo space, and available luxuries like heated and ventilated second-row captain’s chairs, a panoramic moonroof, and a premium JBL sound system. It feels more like a luxury family SUV designed for long-distance comfort.

The Land Cruiser, especially the newer 250 and 300 Series, focuses more on durability and refined ruggedness. It offers a clean, modern design with upscale materials but generally less interior space than the Sequoia. However, it excels in ergonomics, visibility, and intuitive controls—ideal for users who need a practical yet high-end, off-road-ready interior. Verdict: Choose the Sequoia if space, comfort, and family-oriented features are priorities. Go for the Land Cruiser if you value a luxurious yet functional cabin built for both daily and off-road use.

Toyota Sequoia Interior

Toyota Land Cruiser Interior

For a thorough exploration of the Toyota Land Cruiser Mini, including its features and history, be sure to visit our detailed article. Click here to dive deeper into the Land Cruiser Mini.
Toyota Land Cruiser Mini: Compact Off-Road SUV for Urban Adventurers | Specs, Features, and Reviews

Trim Levels

Toyota Sequoia Trims:

1. SR5 – The base trim offers solid value with standard features like a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, Toyota Safety Sense, and an 8-inch touchscreen. Ideal for budget-conscious buyers who still want strong performance and tech.
   
2. Limited – Adds premium touches like heated/ventilated front seats, power-folding mirrors, and a larger 14-inch infotainment screen. A great mid-range option for families.
   
3. Platinum – Enhances luxury with second-row captain’s chairs, panoramic moonroof, and a JBL sound system—perfect for long-distance travelers.
   
4. TRD Pro – Built for off-road adventures, it features Fox shocks, skid plates, and all-terrain tires. A great pick for outdoor enthusiasts.
   
5. 1794 Edition – Western-themed with unique wood trim, leather seats, and special badging. Appeals to those who want luxury with personality.
   
6. Capstone – The top-tier trim, offering semi-aniline leather, acoustic glass, and chrome accents. Ideal for buyers wanting a premium, near-Lexus experience.
   

Toyota Land Cruiser Trims (2024):

1. 1958 – A stripped-down version focused on rugged essentials, with cloth seats and fewer tech features. Great for hardcore off-roaders.
   
2. Land Cruiser – The core trim with synthetic leather, multi-terrain select, and better infotainment. Balances utility and comfort.
   
3. First Edition – Limited-run model with exclusive styling, roof rack, and premium touches. Perfect for collectors or early adopters.

 Sequoia’s wide trim range caters to families, luxury seekers, and off-roaders. Land Cruiser trims are simpler but ideal for adventure-focused buyers. For versatility, Sequoia stands out; for pure utility and heritage, Land Cruiser shines.

For a more comprehensive comparison between the Toyota Sequoia and the Ford Expedition, be sure to visit our detailed article that covers all the key differences in performance, features, and value. Click here to read more.
Toyota Sequoia vs Ford Expedition Comparison

Available Configurations

The latest available configurations for the Toyota Sequoia and Toyota Land Cruiser are from the 2025 and 2024 model years, respectively. Here’s a comparison to assist potential buyers in choosing the model that best fits their needs.​

2025 Toyota Sequoia:

The 2025 Sequoia is a full-size SUV offered in six trims:​

1. SR5: Equipped with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, Toyota Safety Sense, and an 8-inch touchscreen.​
   
2. Limited: Adds synthetic leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a 14-inch touchscreen.​
   
3. Platinum: Features leather upholstery, second-row captain’s chairs, a panoramic sunroof, and a JBL audio system.​
   
4. TRD Pro: Designed for off-road enthusiasts with features like Fox shocks, skid plates, and all-terrain tires.​
   
5. 1794 Edition: Offers unique wood trim, special leather upholstery, and massaging seats.
   
6. Capstone: The top-tier trim with premium leather, wood interior trim, and 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels.
   

All trims are powered by a turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 hybrid engine producing 437 horsepower and 583 lb.-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with four-wheel drive available on most trims. 

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser:

The 2024 Land Cruiser is a midsize SUV available in three trims:​

1. 1958: Features round LED headlights, an 8-inch touchscreen, and cloth seats.​
   
2. Land Cruiser: Adds rectangular LED headlights, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, synthetic leather upholstery, and off-road enhancements like Multi-Terrain Select.​
   
3. First Edition: A limited-production model with exclusive features such as a roof rack, rock rails, and front skid plate.

All trims come with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine delivering 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel drive is standard across all trims. ​

Key Differences:

• Size & Capacity: The Sequoia is larger, offering three rows of seating suitable for families needing more passenger and cargo space. The Land Cruiser is a two-row SUV, accommodating up to five passengers.​
  
• Performance: The Sequoia’s V6 hybrid engine provides more horsepower and torque compared to the Land Cruiser’s four-cylinder hybrid, making it better suited for towing and hauling.​
  
• Off-Road Capability: While both vehicles offer off-road capabilities, the Land Cruiser, especially in the First Edition trim, is designed with more specialized off-road features.​
  

Recommendation:

• Choose the Sequoia if you require a spacious SUV with higher towing capacity and room for more passengers, making it ideal for larger families and long trips.​
  
• Opt for the Land Cruiser if you prioritize off-road capability and prefer a midsize SUV with a heritage of rugged performance, suitable for adventure enthusiasts.​
  

Both models offer a range of trims to cater to various preferences and budgets, ensuring that buyers can find a configuration that aligns with their specific needs.

For a comprehensive comparison between the Toyota Land Cruiser and the Land Rover Defender, check out our detailed article that covers all the key differences in performance, design, and off-road capabilities. Click here to read more.
Toyota Land Cruiser vs Land Rover Defender Comparison

Writer’s Perspective

When comparing the Toyota Sequoia and Land Cruiser, I find myself appreciating both for different reasons, but the Land Cruiser stands out more for me overall. It’s not just an SUV—it’s a legend. The 2024 Land Cruiser brings back the rugged, go-anywhere spirit with a modern twist. I love that it maintains its off-road DNA with advanced terrain tech, standard 4WD, and a tough yet sleek design. While it’s not as powerful as the Sequoia, it feels more purposeful built for real adventures rather than just looking the part.

That said, the Sequoia is an excellent choice for families. Its hybrid V6 powertrain is smooth and strong, and the interior feels upscale and spacious, especially in trims like Capstone and Platinum. It’s a road trip king—comfortable, tech-filled, and capable of towing with ease.

If you’re mostly tackling urban roads with occasional camping trips, the Sequoia is perfect. But if you love exploring unpaved paths and value Toyota’s heritage of durability, the Land Cruiser is the one that speaks to the soul. It’s more than a vehicle—it’s a lifestyle. For me, that authenticity gives the Land Cruiser the edge, even if it sacrifices a bit of comfort and space.

Final Verdict

If I had to choose between the Toyota Sequoia and the Toyota Land Cruiser, I’d personally go with the Toyota Land Cruiser—specifically the 2024 model. While the Sequoia offers more space, power, and family-friendly features, the Land Cruiser speaks more to my preference for versatility, heritage, and smart design.

What draws me to the Land Cruiser is its blend of rugged capability and refined practicality. The new 2.4L turbo hybrid powertrain may not be as powerful as the Sequoia’s, but it offers better fuel efficiency and just enough torque for everyday needs and off-road adventures. I appreciate its clean, functional interior, modern tech, and classic boxy look that stays true to its legacy.

It’s also more manageable in size, making it easier to drive in both city traffic and on backcountry roads. And with trims like the Land Cruiser and First Edition offering features like Multi-Terrain Select and locking differentials, it’s a real off-road performer. The Sequoia is great for larger families and towing, but for someone who values adventure, simplicity, and iconic reliability, the Land Cruiser is the better fit. It may not be the biggest or flashiest, but it’s the most balanced and authentic option for my lifestyle.

For an in-depth look at the differences across the 1967-2020 Toyota Land Cruiser model years, be sure to check out our detailed article that covers all the key updates and changes over the decades. Click here to learn more.
Toyota Land Cruiser: 1967-2021 Model by Year