Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Toyota Sequoia S
With an overall Carivo score of 7.6/10, the 2021 Toyota Sequoia S earns a Recommended rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.5/10, while Value at 6.5/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability comes in at 8.2/10 in our assessment — above the middle of the pack for this class, though not flawless. Safety is a strength too — 8.5/10 by our scoring. As with any car, verify the official ratings for your specific trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Performance lands mid-pack at 7.2/10: enough power and composure for everyday needs, without the dynamics that distinguish the segment's driver-focused options. Technology comes in at 7.7/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $64,175–$82,350, 19 MPG, seating 8, the Toyota Sequoia S sits in the premium tier of the suv category. The value score of 6.5/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: Think of the 2021 Toyota Sequoia S as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in value are the only real asterisks. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2021 Toyota Sequoia S ranks #737 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 70% of the segment. Its 7.6/10 overall score is 0.2 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $64,175 starting price is about 78% above the segment's median of $36,079.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Sequoia S Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2018 Toyota Sequoia S scores 7.6/10 — within striking distance of the 2021's 7.6 — and starts roughly $6,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Fuel economy at 19 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Premium price bracket — make sure the score justifies the outlay vs. segment alternatives
Common Questions — 2021 Toyota Sequoia S
Is the 2021 Toyota Sequoia S reliable?
We rate the 2021 Toyota Sequoia S's reliability 8.2/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2021 Toyota Sequoia S worth buying?
It scores 7.6/10 overall, ranking #737 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 70% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2021 Toyota Sequoia S cost?
The 2021 Toyota Sequoia S starts at $64,175 and ranges up to $82,350 across trims (MSRP when new). At 19 MPG, expect roughly $2,763/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Sequoia S years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Sequoia S years we've rated are 2015 (7.4/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (7.9/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Toyota Sequoia S
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Similar SUV to Consider
Other suvs at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Representative photo — may show another model year
