Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro can go from showroom to trail

After more than a decade in the market, Toyota has finally launched the all-new third-generation Sequoia today for North America. Compared to the outgoing model, it looks very aggressive and modern. The design cues are also inspired by its pick-up truck sibling – the Tundra – which debuted earlier this year. With the Land Cruiser discontinued in North America, the Sequoia also becomes the brand’s new range-topping SUV in the market.

While the new Sequoia definitely looks good, the TRD Pros is one variant that stands out among the rest. Compared to the other trim levels, the TRD Pro looks very rugged and is ready to hit the trail straight out of the dealership. It’s not just all-show, and no-go either. Toyota packaged the Sequoia TRD Pro trim with proper off-roading equipment.

The TRD Pro comes with Fox internal bypass shocks and a 1/4-inch TRD front skid plate for added protection. Unlike other variants which are available with 2WD, this one is 4WD only. Other additional features to improve off-road and trail capability include standard selectable locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select, CRAWL Control, and Downhill Assist Control.

Visually, the Sequoia TRD Pro looks a lot more rugged too. It drops all chrome for black trim, lending to a more aggressive look. The front grille is inspired by heritage models with the TOYOTA spelled out similar to the Land Cruiser GR Sport. It also incorporates a TRD lightbar and marker lights toward the top of the grille.

Meanwhile, black 18-inch wheels with increased offset wrapped in chunky tires give the SUV a wider stance. Rounding up the exterior changes are dual exhaust tips, a TRD roof rack, and exclusive Solar Octane color.

Inside there are more TRD goodies including accents on the seats and the shift knob. It’s still very premium inside with second-row captain’s chairs as standard. Like all other Sequoias, Toyota Safety Sense is now standard. It’s also powered by the same 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid i-Force Max engine that produces 437 horsepower and 790 Nm torque paired with a 10-speed automatic.

The Sequoia (including this TRD Pro variant) isn’t available locally. However, we wouldn’t be surprised if we see a few on the road imported by gray market dealers given the SUV’s popularity.