Finished in a sharp Crystal Silver color, the Sequoia Capstone made a strong first impression. Its bold front grille, large wheels and wide stance give it a commanding presence on the road. It’s unmistakably a full-size SUV and one that carries a sense of refinement that sets it apart from more traditional, work-focused competitors.

During the week, the Sequoia quickly settled into daily life. Trips to work around Utah Valley, stops at the grocery store and running various errands all came with ease. Despite its size, it never felt overwhelming to drive. The elevated seating position provides excellent visibility, and Toyota has equipped the Sequoia with a full suite of cameras and sensors that make parking and maneuvering in tighter spaces much more manageable than expected.

Hybrid power built for performance

Under the hood, the Sequoia is powered by Toyota’s i-FORCE MAX hybrid system, which pairs a twin-turbocharged V6 engine with an electric motor. The result is an impressive 437 horsepower and a massive 583 pound-feet of torque. Around town, the powertrain delivers smooth and confident acceleration, with the electric motor helping provide instant torque from a stop. Whether merging onto I-15 or climbing the grades along the Wasatch Front, the Sequoia always felt composed and capable.

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The hybrid system here is less about squeezing out maximum fuel economy and more about delivering strong, usable power. That said, fuel economy numbers hovering around 20 miles per gallon combined are still respectable for a vehicle of this size. For those who need to tow, the Sequoia is more than up to the task, with the ability to pull up to 9,000 pounds when properly equipped — perfect for boats, trailers or weekend toys.

The Sequoia also offers impressive capability when needed. Properly equipped, it can tow up to about 9,500 pounds, making it ideal for hauling boats, trailers or camping gear for weekend trips around Utah.

Living with the Sequoia in Utah Valley

Ride quality throughout the week was excellent. The Sequoia handled everything from smooth freeway cruising to rougher city streets without complaint. It remained quiet inside, with minimal road noise, making it an ideal companion for both short commutes and longer drives.

Stepping into the Capstone trim, it’s immediately clear that Toyota intended this to be a premium offering. The interior is finished with high-quality materials, including soft leather seating, wood accents and tasteful metal trim pieces. The attention to detail is evident throughout the cabin, giving it a refined and upscale feel.

Craig Conover, Daily Herald

The front seats were especially comfortable and offered both heating and ventilation, along with a massage feature that we found ourselves using more than expected — particularly after long days or extended drives. The second-row captain’s chairs provided plenty of room and comfort for passengers, while the third row was surprisingly usable for a full-size SUV.

Technology that keeps everyone connected

Technology is also a strong point in the Sequoia. The large infotainment screen is responsive and easy to navigate, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto making connectivity simple. Multiple USB ports throughout the cabin ensured that everyone’s devices stayed charged, and the premium audio system delivered clear, rich sound whether we were listening to music or catching up on podcasts during our drives.

Safety features are abundant, as expected in a modern Toyota. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking all come standard. These systems worked seamlessly in the background, adding an extra layer of confidence, especially during highway driving.

A quick escape to Utah’s Dixie

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Midway through the week, we decided to take advantage of having such a comfortable and capable SUV and headed south for a quick three-day trip to St. George. The drive down I-15 is always a familiar one, but having the Sequoia made it particularly enjoyable. The spacious cabin, supportive seats and smooth ride turned the journey into a relaxing experience.

Arriving in St. George, we were greeted with warm sunshine and a welcome break from the cooler temperatures back home. It didn’t take long to get out and enjoy the area, with a couple of days spent exploring local hiking trails and taking in the scenic beauty that makes Southern Utah so special.

One of the highlights of the trip was a visit to the Tuacahn Saturday Market. Set against the stunning red rock backdrop near Ivins, the market offered a mix of local vendors, crafts, food and live entertainment. It was the perfect way to spend a morning and soak in the laid-back atmosphere of Utah’s Dixie.

The Sequoia proved just as useful around St. George as it had been in Utah Valley. Whether navigating city streets or heading out to trailheads, it handled everything with ease. The ample cargo space made it simple to bring along everything we needed for hiking and day trips, while the comfortable interior provided a welcome retreat after time spent outdoors.

Heading back north at the end of the trip, we were reminded again of just how well the Sequoia performs on the highway. It feels solid and planted, with a level of stability that inspires confidence even at freeway speeds. Despite its size, it never felt cumbersome, and long stretches of driving passed by quickly thanks to the comfortable seating and quiet cabin.

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Back in Utah Valley, the Sequoia seamlessly returned to daily duty. It continued to impress as a practical and versatile vehicle, equally at home running errands as it was on a road trip.

At the end of the week

By the end of the week, it was clear that the 2026 Toyota Sequoia Capstone Hybrid offers a well-rounded package for those who need space, power and a touch of luxury. It’s a vehicle that can handle the demands of family life, accommodate visits from grandkids and still be ready at a moment’s notice for the next adventure.

In the end, what stood out most during our time with the Sequoia wasn’t just its size or power, but its versatility. It handled everything we asked of it throughout the week and then some — proving to be just as comfortable in everyday life as it was on the open road headed toward Southern Utah.

Base price: $84,435

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Destination charge: $2,095

Price as driven: $89,533