2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road vs Sequoia Mountain Adventure

Between the mid-size 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road Premium and the full-size 2021 Toyota Sequoia Nightshade Edition, which is better for hitting a snow-covered forest road at the tail-end of winter? Ryan and Karleena hit the highway and head deep into the mountains to see which is better.
#4runner #toyota #sequoia
CONTENTS
00:00 - Introduction
00:17 - Highway Driving (MPG)
04:20 - Feature Comparison
08:40 - Forest Roads
12:32 - Snow Challenge
Get a VIP Pass for Driving Sports TV on KZbin:
/ @drivingsports
Driving Sports produces exclusive automotive reviews, news and motor sports for broadcast, web, mobile and set-top boxes. Do not use our video content without permission. All rights are reserved.
Equipment used to make this video:
Canon R5: amzn.to/2KcwacW
Canon R6: amzn.to/33xLpUa
Canon 24-105mm f/4: amzn.to/2Jx0I8e
BlackMagic Ursa 4.6k G2: amzn.to/37poIm6
Sony RX0II (in-car camera) amzn.to/2NCfWbp
Rode Go Wireless mic amzn.to/364zLP5
GoPro amzn.to/2RrdNjT
Follow us:
Facebook: / drivingsports
Twitter: / drivingsports
Official Site: www.drivingsports.com

[@1northsparrow246]

Ryan, How does it feel to be the second most popular host of your own KZbin channel? ;-)

[@drivingsports]

As long as you subscribe, I’m okay with that. 😂 -RD

[@1northsparrow246]

@@drivingsports Silver medals aren't too bad - Subscribed! :-)

[@nickbible1134]

Dude learn to drive off road you could have drove both threw there if you knew what you were doing

[@SlowTundra]

@@nickbible1134 learn how to spell "through". threw = past tense of throw.

[@AldermanFredCDavis]

In 2019 I rented a 2018 Sequoia for a long weekend in Atlanta. I thought it might be an issue driving such a large vehicle in a city. Surprisingly, I had no problem whipping that Sequoia through the city. It was a joy to drive on the highway. I was even pleasantly surprised by the gas mileage. I did not clock it, but given its size I did not think it used an inordinate amount of fuel in a combination of highway and city driving................with the A/C. I had zero complaints after putting close to 1,000 miles on it. 10/10.

[@zncuentertainment712]

My 2011 Platinum Sequoia has over 200k miles on it and zero issues. Super underrated SUV.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Their prices added together just about equal a Land Cruiser. I think the Sequoia is a bargain in the 3 ton SUV segment.

[@charlieclown9913]

Sequoias are amazing vehicles especially when you add good all terrain tires. Works wonderfully in snow or mud.

[@adamn480]

Sequoia is low key the poor mans land cruiser

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@adamn480 I think the SR5 Sequoia or 4Runner are very affordable considering their capability and quality. When you price a 4X4 across its entire lifespan they are far cheaper than the competition. The upper trims make a little less sense to me. Speaking of upper trims, the Land Cruiser is sold at much lower prices and in much simpler packages in other markets. It does not have to be luxuriously equipped and priced like a Lexus LX.

[@Agent.K.]

@@rightlanehog3151 That’s what I don’t understand. Other markets have LC, LC Prado, Fortuner, FJC all can be optioned with the 4.0 V6 (there are other engines). More than 30K difference between V6 LC and top 5.7. GX is available too in case you wonder.

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@Agent.K. Look up Toyota Gibraltar Holdings KZbin channel. They have a Land Cruiser with a simple cloth interior, steel wheels, 4.0 V6 and, best of all, manual transmission! Let's hope the next Land Cruiser comes back as a more sensible option with all the capability but less of the frills.

[@NRGRX]

Great production quality my friend! You are now my go-to automotive journalist, especially love love the off road tests!!

[@northerntoyota7584]

A kinetic rope is your friend. You can safely get a run in the towing vehicle and use that momentum to “pop” the stuck vehicle out. Especially when the towing vehicle is on ice/snow

[@stout_tossme7541]

Best thing I have purchased for recovery. Got a snatch strap years ago. Picked up a Yankum about a year ago.

[@DrivenHard]

Would it have put a ton of bad stress on the tow rope if they did a slighter hard tug with the one they had?

[@stout_tossme7541]

@@DrivenHard if there is no give, too much force can damage the vehicles themselves.

[@kevinwarrick7190]

Ryan, looks like you're having fun. Another great review!

[@biz4twobiz463]

Ryan and Karleena GREAT job!! Nice video and format.

[@autonewstv86]

Love this car. Probably the most reliable out there, off and on road.

[@terrynichol577]

Where's the car?

[@johnanddiann100]

Which one?

[@terrynichol577]

@@johnanddiann100 both

[@johnanddiann100]

@@terrynichol577 I was asking BeeCars which one they loved.

[@dontjustexist9859]

@@johnanddiann100 lol. Maybe that's his other account 🤣🤣

[@cazarilolsen4630]

Good to see Karleena again.

[@Wild1995]

I love your channel, just subscribed after watching several videos

[@averagejohnsportscards]

Great video once again! Cheers!

[@dj331]

Another great video 👌🏻

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Love all the 4Runner work on this Channel

[@rimarcadu]

Drivers make a big difference , both vehicles are excellent

[@BernonCars]

I love these off road videos!

[@Lex5576]

I just had a 2021 4Runner TRD Off Road ordered at my local dealership. I opted for black metallic. Watching this has got me so stoked. It could be mid-July before it arrives because there's such a shortage of 4Runners right now. Well worth the wait, and my first Toyota.

[@aflockofbeagles8219]

Did you get it?

[@TheJjyoung333]

Fuel mileage for my 2012 Sequoia ranges from 17-19mpg @62mph and 16-17 @ 70-75mph. Towing 5k boat I average 10-12 mpg, about same as Ford's 3.5L turbo. I've towed my 5k boat with both vehicles. Mileage is heavily dependent on headwinds and right foot attitude.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Do you have the 5.7 or 4.6 engine? Nice Smallmouth by the way.

[@BryanBrokeIt]

This was absolutely EXCRUCIATING to watch for many reasons. I have a Sequoia and it seems like every review of it, people hate on it. Sure it’s long-in-the-tooth, but it is reliable, comfortable, and very capable. I get that the manufacturer might get their feathers ruffled about the tires, but why not bring snow chains, I mean y’all brought other “recovery” gear. I’m. It even going to get into the whole interaction with the female presenter, I mean that was super cringe-worthy. Also, the “mini van” references were absurd. It holds 7 people yes, it has 381hp, tows 7100ish pounds, and glides down the road.

[@aflockofbeagles8219]

Unpopular opinion here; her “crackling”, high-pitched voice wavers are what makes me stop watching. Unfortunate because I like his video reviews ☹️ But her voice is absolutely horrible to listen to.

[@WinningDeadlyEncounters]

i bet she didnt lock center diff

[@d.behrens1990]

Great team love you test drives!!!

[@john-okc450]

A Kinetic ROPE like Factor 55 or Yankum Ropes (30% stretch) makes recoveries easier. You can build up mometum in the vehicle pulling and it's gentler on the recovery points. A lighter vehicle can pull out a much heavier vehicle. ( Grand Cherokee vs Loaded Semi w/trailer uphill)

[@rottieshepcalibre9156]

I never clicked so fast..

[@HeIaI]

Great Jobs Guys! Love the Sequoia & 4Runner & Of course The Land Cruiser

[@Kiss__Kiss]

My man Ryan, and Karleena back in the woods? Oh yeah, I'm There!!!!

[@MrInternationalSound]

I love the gray!!!! Subscribed

[@skippylippy547]

This is why the dealer lifted my 2020 TRD OffRoad and put on Nitto Ridge Grapplers with NFAB rock sliders. Makes a huge difference off-road.

[@will0775]

Excellent video.

[@gatto190]

I have both of these vehicles. They’re workhorses. Solid, well-made vehicles.

[@sjtaggs]

Same here, and love both of them. They serve different purposes, but both are impressive in their own way.

[@northerntoyota7584]

I was willing to accept the outdatedness (I know that’s not a word) of my 4Runner, but that sequoia is just ridiculous

[@rightlanehog3151]

I would be thrilled with either of these SUVs. When considering 'outdatedness', the engine and transmission of the Sequoia are a little more modern.

[@trailrunnah8886]

@@rightlanehog3151 that engine/ transmission from the Sequoia would be a dream come true in the 4Runner. My only complaint about my 4Runner is the drivetrain.

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@trailrunnah8886 My dream 4Runner would have to have a manual transmission. The Tacoma offers a manual and the 4Runner should also offer one.

[@trailrunnah8886]

@@rightlanehog3151 I don't disagree with you. Personally I only like manual transmissions in sports cars, so I'm happy with an automatic. I just wish the engine in the 4Runner wasn't so harsh and made better power. I would give up some mileage to have the V8 from the Sequoia.

[@fatelook]

@@trailrunnah8886 the HP you get from a 4Runner is 2021 is downright embarrassing. I’m planning on adding a blower to mine later down the line

[@kulutz9565]

Love this comparison

[@farid6906]

I am so happy, I bought lifted 4Runner TRD Off-Road a week ago. By the way great video. Keep it up.

[@slocavky]

Ah Nice to see Karleena back

[@g.fortin3228]

Love the 4Runner.. I am planning on one before fall. You have to bring Karleena more often, she's awesome, pretty, and adventurous. Win win!

[@drivingsports]

We have another episode with Karleena coming up, so stay tuned for that. (Crosstrek vs. Outback)

[@gingeybread1423]

I just got mine yesterday and I am so so so pleased

[@supersymun]

First thing I did with my runner was hit the unmaintained roads last winter... ski-doo trail was perfect 👌 to get her feet wet with street tires. Even better when I got the Falken’s.

[@cakrawalajingga]

Scary adventure just by watching it,,,,no no....thank you.

[@ckm-mkc]

Good job on getting out, that was touch & go. Couple of tips from someone who used to deal with deep snow (e.g. 4ft+ per storm and 30ft/yr): Carry chains (or Maxtrax, but those are huge) - they will be better than AT tires, get a better shovel (like a avalanche rescue shovel) and get a kinetic rope - it allows for a bungee effect that uses momentum to get you out. Also, cloth on a synthetic line does nothing, you only need that on a steel line.

[@drivingsports]

We had chains for the 4Runner to use in a worst case scenario. Kinetic rope is on the future shopping list.

[@T-Mo_]

Nice vid. Seems like a full size metal shovel would be a good addition. You have plenty of room

[@Ktheodoss]

Most people (myself included) that say they off-road aren’t really doing hardcore off-roading. It’s more accurately described as shit-roading. And the Sequoia can handle that easily, and with the room to carry family or friends, and the required gear. It’s a solid vehicle though obviously not as updated as the GM or Ford competitors.

[@ckm-mkc]

Yup, that's pretty much why I have a Volvo XC wagon - pretty much does everything but hard core offroading and with 8.3" of ground clearance, it's actually better than a lot of SUVs....

[@rickyr7790]

​@@ckm-mkc is that what u tell yourself 🤣

[@tomycont]

Ryan: I need more views.... Action: Brings cute girl Karleena

[@artstar5994]

Works for me!

[@JohnRivers-ol5tv]

Good idea she’s cute

[@Sacapuntas69]

Amazing scenery. Spending the day driving in snow with a beautiful girl! Sequoia would be my choice if it had the latest Tundra dash. I don't mind old school technology. I like the simple basics, which is why it is hard to replace my FJ Cruiser.

[@Olph1]

Good reviews. Both vehicles are excellent. Better mpg from the v8 is a need.

[@SulCoCrazy]

Start leaving way earlier for ur trips to allow for the inevitable problems. This way you’re good on daylight if something happens. Love ur vids.

[@az3241]

Please do more Subaru crosstrek :) Love the offroad stuff! Super video btw!

[@drivingsports]

We just filmed a crosstrek episode. Should be up in a couple weeks.

[@az3241]

@@drivingsports This is Why i love this channel :)

[@mikec3454]

I've got Duratracs on my 4Runner - I would highly recommend them. They give the 4Runner a nice aggressive look and paired to its capability, the traction is through the roof.

[@JAMESWUERTELE]

What size? 265’s 275’s?

[@linux_admin2501]

Would you recommend the Duratracs for 70% city, 30% off-road dirt trails, mud, snow, rocks? How about tread life? Only driving around 4-5000 miles per year right now

[@Goku-mr2jw]

Karleena is back!!!😍😍😍😍 Edit: Liked and Subscribed!

[@kimlaity3061]

my man, your a stan

[@Goku-mr2jw]

@@kimlaity3061 🤫😂

[@kimlaity3061]

@@Goku-mr2jw hahah cant blame you!

[@azatecas]

Do you plqn on supercharging the 4runner? Since you make alot of trips in high elevation it might be useful

[@Jimsranch]

Good video.

[@tritchie6272]

Have you considered investing in a Kinetic energy rope? I've watched video's of them being used with excellent results in offroad recoveries.

[@mikefoehr235]

I would say Karleena is a huge upgrade. The Sequoia has the great 5.7 V8. That engine is a beast. With my Tundra I get about 13.4 litres per 100kms. at 110 km/hr. That is not that bad for a truck.

[@voodooblue6162]

What a joke! My 4Runner gets 14.6 per 100kms on the highway, and 16.7 in winter. 90-110 km/h. I'm in Alberta by the way.

[@zhandoszhanserikov5920]

@@voodooblue6162 Actually not. 5.7 engine of sequoia can turn of half of its' cylinders, so basically it is a camry when you are soft on accel pedal. Your 4runner always runs on 6 cylinders.

[@sc8916]

@@voodooblue6162 I don't know how you drive your 4Runner. I got mine around 11.47-12.5 in summer, 12.37~13 in winter tire full-time 4WD.

[@stevepodleski]

Beckler Road!!! Many fine trails and some rough Forest Service roads to the trailheads in my 2004 Sequoia. And yes, I have slept in the back before many hikes.

[@miket.9114]

Great video! Now, having pretty much driven all of them off road, would u recommend ordering a 4runner with the KDSS? Or do u think it is unnecessary for occasional trails.? Also how do u factor in road comfort, city potholes, highway driving, etc..? Am Really curious. I would like to build a budget land cruiser if possible. Thanks

[@drivingsports]

I think that KDSS is unnecessary for occasional trails. Spend the extra 2K on a decent set of AT tires.

[@jag5695]

@@drivingsports WIll the KDSS improve comfort and limit body roll? I am thinking of getting it on a Landcrusier Prado here in NZ.

[@drivingsports]

@@jag5695 it will. Nice but not necessary on a 4Runner IMHO.

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@drivingsports A Toyota 4X4 is a vehicle that can be reasonably expected to last 25 years. Does KDSS last 25 years? How much would it cost to repair if it failed half way through the SUV's lifespan? BTW I drive a 16 year old 'Toyota' which I bought new so I really do think about longevity. K.I.S.S. > KDSS

[@JAMESWUERTELE]

@@jag5695 my wife has a 2020 ORP without KDSS, I have a 2021 ORP with KDSS, it’s night and day a better driving dynamic. No body roll, improves ride on the highway, I would definitely not hesitate to buy another with KDSS. I like it better than not having it. Granted I have two 4Runners in the garage so I have a comparison in real world driving, and not just an opinion of driving it once on a test drive only.

[@rjhein]

My 2008 Toyota sequoia had a trip/mpg reset button you could hit at any time. So does the 2021. I used it all the time over various stretches of road etc... I'm guessing she didn't realize that. :) Also kind of curious why they didn't use CDL switch in the test (especially at 13:00) where the comment was re traction in low range... Pressing that would have instantly helped

[@MechayaAlta]

How would your outback xt onyx have done here? I’ve read they can be ordered with underbody protection.

[@aknadiri2520]

Would be cool if you guys did all generation 4runners, like old ones too. I am sure they are still around. New ones are already everywhere, and there are no such reviews for old generations.

[@crv20051]

You need a Yankum rope to add to your recovery gear. Maybe a winch. Lots of good, strong trees to use!

[@proconsumersafety]

Since you have 4WD or AWD, if you had 2 sets of chains and a v plow in the front, it is amazing how much further you could go.

[@slav1north764]

As mentioned a snatch em strap or rope would have saved you alot of time. I prefer the straps . lve done some recoveries you wouldn't believe with those things. A good 10 To 15 Mph tug does wonders.

[@robrovina865]

I’d love to see you test the 4Runner TDR vs a 4Runner limited.

[@theoutdoordad7395]

Really nice comparison of the two. Does the 4Runner have good power for driving up mountain roads/interstates?

[@CDawg40]

Did she have the center diff locked? It’s the same system in my V8 4Runner and 4low with center diff locked makes it a beast offroad and in snow

[@stout_tossme7541]

Bro. Get some Falken wildpeaks on the 4 runner. Best up grade I did to my new 4 runner.

[@SavvyTruth]

I put them on my 2018 CX5. Looks so much better, and they were a beast this winter. 10K miles in and I would most definitely recommend them.

[@hanglu1335]

I hope that Toyota will give a option to relocate spare tire to rear hatch so a ancillary gas tank can be installed at the rear space to provide extended range.

[@rightlanehog3151]

It seems that most models with that feature have a 'swing over' tailgate rather than a 'swing up' tailgate. Offering the Prado in this market would certainly solve the problem.

[@diraltmcallister3523]

Tip for getting out of snow, get either kitty litter or sandbags, then you can break em open and sand the tops of the tires and the ground ahead and to the side. Chewing in snow without studs doesn't do anything, well except ice it up

[@phlfly10]

she is awesome.

[@Edmonam]

I have a 4Runner Trd Off Road and my question is do you also feel the turning radius gets lesser when 4high or 4low is engaged? It also gets tougher to turn the wheel when engaged. When doing that kind of turns do you think it’s not damaging the car when you try to turn the wheel all the way?

[@drivingsports]

It is. For a reason why, watch our 2021 Sequoia review. I explained and demonstrate the differences.

[@TrailTape]

5:30 "metal cheeseburger" - cannot unsee lmao

[@AldermanFredCDavis]

What is the make & model of that light up front inside with the cameras in the 4Runner? I don't see it listed in the description.

[@drivingsports]

The light in the 4Runner is a new addition, it's a waterproof Aputure Amaran AL-MW: amzn.to/3lZHbfP

[@ThePurplefrog66]

karleena is the gem of the channel :)

[@loneapple440]

Great video with Karleena and both vehicles.

[@Rodrigo_xt8c2]

that exit was giving me anxiety in my home chair!!

[@jimbolaiya]

Which is a better family vehicle for the snow? Is the 4-Runner too small luggage or is the Sequoia too big to be decent in the snow? Thanks.

[@Shane23Armada]

That sequoia is still the best

[@zachpanyu]

I have a 2021 Sequoia TRD Pro and a 2015 4Runner Limited, planning on taking them to a beginner’s off road trail to have a little fun. I understand the snow situation here but these Toyotas got more in em I know it! 🤣

[@WolfWagon]

so seeing you trying to tow her out reminded me that i have heard that using the mounts to screw in a mounting point for pulling are not safety rated to pull anything. I was curious to hear your thoughts on that?

[@drivingsports]

I have no concerns using the screw in eye-hole occasionally. But I would have reservations about frequent use. In terms of using it for a rescue, it’s lower risk than trying to lash around a control arm or something else under there.

[@YWUBHYD]

I'm a sucker for Yotas... no matter how dated they are lol that's part of the charm for me! But I do LOVE where the company has progressed i the last few years, despite emissions standards; I think they're still pioneering in many areas.

[@misterpimlott6330]

I wanna see more 4runner vs other toyotas lol

[@FitzMichael]

can you test the 4runner 4x4 nightshade?

[@user-on2md7gk4b]

Thank you for your answer about the taïga yes from what I have seen the Russian tanga is he'll 24/7 .Regards.

[@rd4501]

Good thing you guys are driving 2 vehicles in that way don't have to depend on "others" in case of pulling.

[@TheCable_Guy]

The scenery was amazing where were you guys! #SequoiaGuy

[@drivingsports]

This was near Stevens Pass in Washington State. Thanks for watching!

[@JasonWh]

As an owner of a 2021 Tacoma TRD Pro I can speak to the fact the 2021 4Runner TRD Pro has all the lane departure and rear cross traffic warning systems.

[@drivingsports]

Yes, all 4Runners lane departure now.

[@James-qq2vq]

"rocking motion" meaning= "we couldn't show on camera how we had to beat up on the transmission a bit to get out". Not an issue though, most of us who have gone off road have been there!

[@JohnRivers-ol5tv]

What kind of radios are you using for communication

[@EZapar]

The camera shot at 12:40!!! Wow!!

[@arlenenolte8475]

I had a 08 Sequioa and despite its dinosaur thirsty nature - I miss that thing

[@andyham6094]

Hope he lifts his 4runner and puts some aggressive AT’s on them. I have falken wildpeaks on my runner and it’s the best tire I’ve ever had. Another good choice are the ko2’s but I’ve found the falken wildpeaks have performed better.

[@mercurials54]

🤩 Karleena

[@woolengrappler]

With the departure of the Land Cruiser from the USA, I hope that Toyota brings more of the LC attributes to the Sequoia, or brings some of the new off-road and towing features from the Tundra. Americans love “full size” vehicles and the Sequoia could be a great option for a family hauler that can tow and RV or boat and perform reasonably well off road.

[@drivingsports]

I hope they bring a proper center diff to the Sequoia along with the TRD off road features but I expect they’ll still to a standard dual range transfer case.

[@julianricardodiaz]

Està muy linda Karleena

[@randyshein1453]

I've only seen one other person mention this, why didn't you guys bring chains??

[@davidhillbrand2302]

Try a kinetic tow rope - they are impressive!

[@JoeB3477]

Exactly what I was thinking...maybe a yellow one? 😆

[@4x4.tests.on.rollers]

Karleena is back, finally no mask! Georgos.

[@raulcruz2782]

Fue un video muy bueno y tan divertido, me encanta que Karleena no te deja atrás y te responde como tu 4Runner

[@equitium]

A bag of kitty litter has gotten me out of some snow and ice conditions like this. I always keep a small bag in back during the winter.

[@stevep5736]

Sequoia hands down!

[@santiagoquiroz5170]

Any video with Karleena is pretty good!! : )

[@massimomtl4522]

very courageous to attempt that with all season tires

[@nycad2484]

What’s your film vehicle?

[@patricknichols3187]

If you put Falken Wildpeak AT3s on those TOYs you won’t even need 4wd. I have a set on my 4Runner. I won’t run anything else as long as they keep the compound the same. It will climb a tree.

[@hankbrother3520]

Yall should have avi shovels with you