The 2020 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro emerges as the quintessential SUV for families craving both adventure and unparalleled capability. Unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show, this robust vehicle redefines the boundaries of family excursions, venturing further off the beaten path than ever before. Equipped with a TRD-tuned Fox shock absorber suspension and a suite of meticulously engineered off-road enhancements by Toyota Racing Development, the Sequoia TRD Pro seamlessly blends family-friendly spaciousness with a thirst for adrenaline-pumping escapades.
Joining Toyota’s esteemed TRD Pro lineage, which includes the Tacoma, Tundra, and 4Runner, the 2020 Sequoia TRD Pro embodies Toyota’s rich off-road racing legacy. Since its inception in 2014, the TRD Pro badge has signified vehicles engineered to conquer terrains that intimidate ordinary SUVs and pickups, without compromising everyday driving comfort.
The Sequoia, already recognized for its body-on-frame construction, independent four-wheel suspension, generous ground clearance, and potent V8 engine, stands as a formidable full-size SUV. The TRD Pro variant elevates this foundation, featuring standard Multi-Mode 4WD, an option typically reserved for other Sequoia trims, ensuring unwavering traction and control across diverse landscapes.
Fox Shocks: Engineered for Uncompromising Terrain
Fox, a leading innovator in off-road suspension technology, brings decades of expertise to the 2020 Sequoia TRD Pro. The aluminum-bodied internal bypass shocks, a hallmark of all TRD Pro models, are custom-tuned by TRD engineers to complement each vehicle’s unique dynamics.
Unlike external bypass shocks prevalent in off-road racing, Fox internal bypass shocks integrate bypass zones within the shock body. This ingenious design allows fluid to circumvent the piston through precisely regulated ports as it cycles through its travel. The result is a ride that remains composed and comfortable during typical driving conditions, yet progressively firms up damping to prevent bottoming out when tackling challenging off-road surfaces.
Each TRD Pro model receives bespoke shock tuning. In the Sequoia TRD Pro’s case, the front 2.5-inch Fox shocks incorporate 7 compression zones and 2 rebound zones. TRD engineers have fine-tuned the front spring rate to enhance off-road compliance, while also increasing rebound travel by 18mm.
For the rear suspension, the Sequoia TRD Pro utilizes 2-inch-diameter Fox piggyback monotube shocks equipped with bottom-out-control technology. This system is engineered to amplify damping force, effectively resisting bottoming out on unforgiving terrain. Compared to standard Sequoia rear shocks, these 2-inch Fox units boast larger 47mm pistons (a 15mm increase) and sturdier shock rods, 3.2mm thicker in diameter.
Constructed from fully anodized aluminum, the Fox shock bodies minimize weight while efficiently dissipating heat, mitigating shock fade during demanding off-road driving. A combination of high-temperature damper fluid and pressurized nitrogen gas within each Fox shock further enhances bump compliance and prolongs seal life.
Distinctive Styling, Unmistakable Presence
The 2020 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro commands attention both on and off the road. Its TRD Pro “TOYOTA” grille takes center stage, flanked by striking LED headlights and assertive Rigid LED fog lights below. The Sequoia TRD Pro confidently rides on TRD 18 x 8-in. black BBS forged aluminum wheels wrapped in P275/65 R18 tires, ensuring both ruggedness and refined aesthetics.
Exterior color options for the Sequoia TRD Pro include the exclusive Army Green, alongside Super White, Midnight Black Metallic, and Magnetic Gray Metallic. Regardless of the chosen hue, black TRD Pro front door badges immediately distinguish this special edition. A robust TRD front skid plate provides essential protection for the front suspension and oil pan during off-road excursions. Cast aluminum running boards and a roof rack not only enhance functionality and convenience but also amplify the vehicle’s adventurous spirit.
An available TRD cat-back exhaust system further amplifies the Sequoia TRD Pro’s presence. Featuring a black chrome tip adorned with a debossed TRD logo, this single-outlet exhaust delivers a more pronounced exhaust note, meticulously tuned by TRD engineers with a frequency-tuned sound cancellation device to optimize in-cabin acoustics.
Interior Comfort Meets Rugged Functionality
The Sequoia TRD Pro’s cabin seamlessly merges trail-ready functionality with premium comfort. Black TRD Pro leather-trimmed seats featuring red contrast stitching and “TRD Pro” embroidery on the front headrests offer both durability and luxury. TRD Pro all-weather floor mats provide robust cabin protection against the elements.
A comprehensive suite of standard amenities includes Smart Key with Push Button Start, an 8-way power driver’s seat, a power tilt/slide moonroof, and tri-zone automatic climate control with dedicated rear-seat controls. The standard Premium Audio system ensures a rich auditory experience, featuring a high-resolution touchscreen display, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa compatibility, AM/FM/HD Radio, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio, USB media port, and Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calls and music streaming.
Potent Performance Under the Hood
The Sequoia TRD Pro, like all Sequoia models, is powered by a commanding powertrain – the 5.7-liter i-FORCE V8 engine. This DOHC engine, designed to run on regular-grade gasoline, produces 381 horsepower and 401 lb.-ft. of torque. Paired with a smooth 6-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, this V8 delivers impressive power and responsiveness. Notably, 90 percent of the engine’s peak torque is available at a low 2,200 rpm, a significant advantage for towing. Compliant with the SAE J2807 towing standard, the Sequoia TRD Pro boasts a towing capacity of up to 7,100 lbs. and includes an integrated tow hitch, Driver-selectable Tow/Haul transmission mode, and Trailer Sway Control.
The standard Multi-Mode 4WD system incorporates a lockable TORSEN limited-slip center differential to intelligently distribute torque between the front and rear wheels. A two-speed transfer case provides a low range ratio, essential for navigating challenging off-road trails. Low range engagement is easily accessible via a rotary knob, while the center differential can be locked at the touch of a button.
Ample Space for Passengers and Gear
The 2020 Sequoia TRD Pro is exclusively offered as a 7-seat configuration, featuring comfortable middle-row captain’s chairs and a versatile three-across third-row seat with reclining 60/40 split backs. Ample legroom ensures passenger comfort in all rows, with 40.9 inches in the second row and a generous 35.3 inches in the third row, suitable for adults.
For families with substantial cargo needs, the Sequoia TRD Pro excels. With the third-row seatbacks folded flat, it provides 66.6 cu. ft. of cargo space – ideal for camping equipment. Folding the second-row seatbacks expands the space to a cavernous 120.1 cu. ft., accommodating gear for extended adventures. The Sequoia can even transport items up to 11 feet long, within weight limits. The liftgate features a convenient separate power window with auto up/down and jam protection.
Advanced Safety Features: Toyota Safety Sense-P
Every 2020 Sequoia grade comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P). This comprehensive active safety suite includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Automatic Braking, Lane Departure Alert with Sway Warning System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with full stop technology, and Automatic High Beams. Further enhancing safety, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are also standard.
All Sequoia models are equipped with a robust suite of airbags, including a dual-stage, advanced front airbag system, seat-mounted side airbags for front occupants, roll-sensing side curtain airbags for all three rows, and driver and front passenger knee airbags.
TRD Pro Enhancements Across the Toyota Lineup
The 2020 Sequoia TRD Pro is part of a broader wave of upgrades across the entire TRD Pro family. All 2020 TRD Pro models feature enhanced multimedia systems incorporating Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. While the Tundra, Tacoma, and 4Runner TRD Pros utilize an 8-inch touchscreen, the Sequoia TRD Pro features a 7-inch touchscreen. This updated audio system is standard across all 2020 grades of Sequoia, Tundra, 4Runner, and Tacoma, with screen sizes varying by model.
The Sequoia and Tundra CrewMax TRD Pro models are further upgraded with the top-tier multimedia system, including JBL Premium Audio and Navigation, features already standard in the 4Runner and Tacoma TRD Pros.
For the 2020 model year, the Tundra TRD Pro is available in both Double Cab and CrewMax configurations. The Tacoma TRD Pro receives distinctive sequential LED/DRL headlamps and LED foglamps, a new 16-inch wheel design, and black-insert taillamps. The driver benefits from a new 10-way power seat, and Smart key functionality is extended to the passenger door.
The 2020 Tacoma TRD Pro also gains enhanced functionality with Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) + Multi Terrain Monitor (MTM), providing selectable front, side, and rear views around and under the vehicle. An optional LED bed lamp offers brighter illumination. The 2020 4Runner TRD Pro features a redesigned grille to accommodate the radar sensor for Toyota Safety Sense-P (TSS-P), now standard across all 4Runner grades for 2020. Like the Sequoia and Tundra TRD Pro, the 4Runner TRD Pro also adds Smart Key with Push Button Start for 2020, and gains two additional rear-seat USB ports.
Comprehensive Warranty
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty covers all components except normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. The Sequoia also includes ToyotaCare, a complimentary plan covering scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.
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