Unrivaled Sophistication: Toyota's Flagship SUV Takes on the Elite

Exploring the Pinnacle of Toyota's Offerings: What Over $80,000 Secures from the Brand

Historically, Toyota has cultivated a reputation for manufacturing accessible and economical automobiles. The brand's vehicles are widely recognized for their initial affordability and low running costs, factors that consistently drive millions of sales each year. However, alongside its entry-level models, Toyota now presents several vehicles that are steadily climbing towards the six-figure mark. This segment will meticulously examine the highest-priced new Toyota currently available and evaluate the features and amenities it provides for its substantial cost.

The Sequoia Capstone: Toyota's Most Prestigious New Vehicle

In recent years, Toyota introduced the opulent Capstone trim level for its large-scale models, including the Tundra and Sequoia. These variants are meticulously equipped with Toyota's most advanced technologies and luxurious amenities. Consequently, it is hardly surprising that the Toyota Sequoia Capstone now holds the distinction of being the brand's most expensive new model.

Priced from an initial $83,915, the Capstone represents the highest-end iteration of Toyota's full-size SUV. Previously, the most expensive vehicle in Toyota's lineup was the Land Cruiser; however, the latest generation of the Land Cruiser designed for the American market is a more compact and considerably more economical model. At its elevated price point, the Sequoia Capstone directly competes with upscale versions of the GMC Yukon and Chevrolet Tahoe, as well as the Jeep Wagoneer. Let's delve into what Toyota's most expensive offering provides in 2025.

Exterior Grandeur: A Commanding Road Presence

Stretching an impressive 208.1 inches in length, 79.6 inches in width, and 74.5 inches in height, Toyota's most expensive SUV commands a significant footprint. Its imposing dimensions are further accentuated by the current generation's massive front grille, elevated hood, and sculpted fenders. The Capstone variant distinguishes itself with 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels, the largest in the lineup, and is the sole trim to feature a chrome-accented mesh grille framed by a chrome surround. Both the Sequoia and Capstone badging also exhibit a distinctive finish. For enhanced accessibility, power-deployable running boards are included as a standard feature. Additional standard exterior enhancements include premium LED headlights and daytime running lights, LED fog lights and taillights, chrome-plated mirror caps and roof rails, a single exhaust tip, and a power tilt/slide panoramic roof. Collectively, the Sequoia Capstone unmistakably projects the image of Toyota's flagship SUV.

Interior Luxuries and Practicality: A Richly Appointed Cabin with Third-Row Considerations

All Sequoia models boast a contemporary interior design, offering ample storage solutions and user-friendly, robust controls. The Capstone model, however, is distinguished by its use of the finest materials, featuring semi-aniline leather upholstery and authentic Dark American walnut wood-grain accents. Metallic speaker grilles and illuminated Capstone badging on the dashboard add further sophisticated touches. Second-row captain's chairs with a recline function are standard, while the third-row seats can be conveniently folded electrically. Despite its overall spaciousness, this new Sequoia does not offer as much third-row legroom as some of its competitors, providing up to 33.7 inches. Furthermore, cargo capacity behind the third row can diminish to as little as 11.5 cubic feet, depending on the configuration of the preceding seats. Standard interior features include 10-way power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats; heated and ventilated rear seats; a powered steering column; a heated steering wheel; wireless smartphone charging; a digital rearview mirror; three-zone automatic climate control; a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen; a 14-speaker JBL sound system; wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; and a 10-inch color head-up display, complemented by a surround-view camera system. The Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite, encompassing features such as radar cruise control, pedestrian detection, and road sign assist, is standard across all Sequoia models.

Dynamic Capabilities: Robust Acceleration and Impressive Towing Capacity

Consistent with other Sequoia models, the Capstone is equipped with a potent 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain, generating a combined output of 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. The electric motor alone contributes 48 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. All Sequoia variants feature a 10-speed automatic transmission with dedicated tow/haul driving modes. Although this V6 engine has been subject to previous recalls for reliability concerns, hybrid models like the Sequoia were excluded from these specific recalls. Independent testing has demonstrated the Sequoia's capability to achieve 60 mph in under six seconds, highlighting its considerable power for a vehicle of its size. The Capstone boasts a towing capacity of up to 9,280 lbs, which is marginally less than the maximum 9,520 lbs offered by the base Sequoia SR5. Our evaluation of the Sequoia Capstone revealed that its ride quality was less refined than anticipated, and inferior to that of lower-priced Sequoia trims, largely attributed to the larger 22-inch wheels. The body-on-frame construction and solid rear axle also contribute to this characteristic. Four-wheel drive is standard on the Capstone, with an optional rear air suspension available for an additional $1,045.

Alternative Premium Toyota Models for Discerning Buyers

For those considering a substantial investment in a Toyota, several other high-end models are available, positioned just below the Sequoia Capstone in price.

Toyota Tundra Capstone: Pricing and Features

The Toyota Tundra Capstone, representing the pinnacle of Toyota's pickup truck line, is competitively priced near the top-tier Sequoia. This model features the identical 437-horsepower V6 hybrid engine found in the Sequoia, offering robust performance. The Tundra Capstone 4x4 variant boasts an impressive towing capacity of up to 10,340 lbs. While its interior specifications are largely similar to the Sequoia Capstone, it naturally foregoes the additional seating capacity provided by the SUV.

Toyota Sequoia 1794 Edition: A Distinctive Option

The Toyota Sequoia 1794 Edition ranks as the second most expensive Sequoia trim, distinguished by its slightly smaller 20-inch alloy wheels. Drawing inspiration from Texan heritage, the 1794 Edition showcases authentic American walnut wood trim and exclusive leather upholstery. This model offers a comprehensive suite of features, only omitting a few advanced technological elements that are standard on the Sequoia Capstone, such as the head-up display.

The Sequoia Capstone: A Blend of Strengths and Shortcomings

Justifying an expenditure of over $80,000 on a Toyota may prove challenging for many consumers. However, the Sequoia Capstone substantiates its premium price tag with an array of cutting-edge features, a powerful V6 hybrid powertrain, and a luxurious interior. It also delivers substantial towing capabilities and demonstrates respectable off-road prowess. Unfortunately, at its elevated price point, the Sequoia Capstone falls short in the realm of comfort, exhibiting a somewhat unrefined ride quality and offering limited third-row space. These deficiencies make it difficult to unequivocally endorse, particularly when considering the numerous excellent competitors within this class, including the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban and even European luxury SUVs such as the BMW X7.