Cars

Toyota Sequoia Gains Power with New TRD Performance Package

Toyota has introduced an exciting TRD Performance package for its popular Sequoia and Tundra vehicles, promising a significant boost in power and an enhanced driving experience. This comprehensive upgrade targets the twin-turbo 3.4-liter V-6 engine, offering increased horsepower through a combination of upgraded air filters, a modified exhaust system, and a recalibrated engine tune. Initial tests indicate substantial improvements in acceleration, all while maintaining the vehicle's acoustic comfort and fuel efficiency. This innovative package is set to redefine the performance benchmarks for these robust Toyota models.

New TRD Performance Package Elevates Toyota Sequoia's Capabilities

Toyota has recently unveiled a new TRD Performance package, available for both the Tundra ($2999) and Sequoia ($2299), designed to significantly enhance the power output of their twin-turbo 3.4-liter V-6 engine. This performance upgrade, which became quietly available after its announcement at the 2023 SEMA show, includes a new center exhaust pipe (Tundras receive a cat-back exhaust), TRD conical air filters, and a sophisticated engine tune.

For the hybrid-only Sequoia, this package elevates horsepower from 389 to an impressive 421 at 5200 rpm, while the Tundra sees a gain of 29–32 horsepower. Although the peak torque remains at 479 pound-feet, it is now achieved 400 rpm earlier, at 2000 rpm, translating to a more immediate power delivery. The total combined output for the Sequoia now reaches 466 hp and 583 pound-feet of torque. Vehicles equipped with this package are easily identifiable by a distinctive TRD Performance badge on the rear and a fuel flap sticker indicating the requirement for 91-octane-plus gasoline.

Recent testing of a Sequoia Capstone model equipped with the TRD Performance package, riding on 22-inch wheels and Bridgestone tires, demonstrated a curb weight of 6179 pounds. This figure is remarkably close to a previous Sequoia test model, ensuring a fair comparison. The additional horsepower translated into tangible performance gains, with the quarter-mile time improving by 0.2 seconds to 14.1 seconds at 98 mph. The 0-60 mph acceleration also saw a tenth-of-a-second improvement, achieving 5.5 seconds, and the rolling-start 5–60 mph acceleration was quicker by 0.4 seconds, reaching 5.9 seconds. Furthermore, the 50–70 mph passing time improved significantly from 4.3 to 3.9 seconds, underscoring the effectiveness of the power upgrade.

Despite these notable performance enhancements, the driving experience largely retains its familiar characteristics. The 3.4-liter V-6 engine continues to deliver its characteristic electronically enhanced low rumble and turbo blow-off sounds, with interior noise levels remaining consistent at 75 decibels at wide-open throttle and a hushed 66 decibels (21 sones) during a 70 mph cruise. Interestingly, the TRD Performance package does not alter the Sequoia's 20-mpg EPA combined fuel-economy rating, with observed averages remaining at 16 mpg in typical aggressive driving conditions.

The introduction of the TRD Performance package for the Toyota Sequoia and Tundra represents a compelling evolution for these vehicles. It demonstrates Toyota's commitment to delivering enhanced driving dynamics and performance to its customers, without compromising on other critical aspects such as fuel efficiency or interior comfort. This package offers a valuable option for enthusiasts seeking a more exhilarating and responsive experience from their full-size SUV or truck.

Affordable Used Electric Vehicles

For car buyers prioritizing cost-effectiveness, three specific electric hatchback models stand out as exceptional choices in the used car market. While their modest dimensions and restricted driving ranges might not suit everyone, these vehicles, including the Nissan Leaf, Mitsubishi i-MiEV, and Chevrolet Spark EV, prove ideal for individuals with short daily commutes or those seeking an economical option for urban travel. Remarkably, many of these models can be acquired for less than $10,000, boasting minimal mileage and clear ownership records, making them an attractive proposition for the budget-conscious consumer.

Among the featured vehicles, the 2011–2017 Nissan Leaf pioneered the mass-market electric vehicle segment in the United States. Initially offering a 73-mile range, later versions, particularly from 2016 onwards, saw improvements, extending to 107 miles with larger battery packs. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV, produced from 2012–2017, presents a more idiosyncratic option. Despite its unique design, derived from a Japanese kei car and modified for U.S. safety standards, its 62-mile range positions it as a quirky yet affordable used EV choice. Lastly, the 2014–2016 Chevrolet Spark EV, though initially sold in limited states, has become more widely available. With an 82-mile range and surprising driving dynamics due to its torque-rich motor and lightweight construction, it offers an engaging experience, albeit with a suggestion to consider a used Chevrolet Bolt for those able to invest slightly more for significantly extended range.

When venturing into the used electric vehicle market, it's crucial to adopt a meticulous approach to ensure a sound investment. Prospective buyers should always arrange for a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to uncover any hidden issues. Obtaining a comprehensive vehicle history report is equally important to verify mileage consistency and to check for any significant accident history. Furthermore, for electric vehicles specifically, a battery health report from services like Recurrent can provide invaluable insights into the high-voltage battery's condition, which is a critical component influencing an EV's longevity and performance. Paying attention to interior wear and tear can also offer clues about the previous owner's maintenance habits, aiding in negotiations and potentially avoiding future problems.

Embracing electric vehicles, particularly used models, represents a forward-thinking step towards sustainable transportation and personal financial prudence. The journey of discovering an affordable EV opens up new possibilities for environmental stewardship and smart budgeting. By diligently researching and inspecting these vehicles, buyers can make informed decisions that benefit both their wallets and the planet, proving that accessible innovation and responsibility can go hand in hand.

See More

2025 Porsche 911 GT3 Touring: A Driver's Ultimate Test of Devotion

The 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 Touring epitomizes the pinnacle of automotive passion, designed for those who seek an unadulterated and demanding driving experience. This machine is a testament to Porsche's commitment to raw performance, challenging drivers to fully immerse themselves in its capabilities. Every aspect of the GT3 Touring, from its roaring engine to its unyielding suspension, is crafted to evoke the sensation of a race car, making daily commutes feel like qualifying laps on the track. It's a car that doesn't just transport you; it transforms you into an integral part of its mechanical symphony, demanding respect and rewarding skill.

With its potent naturally aspirated engine and meticulously tuned chassis, the GT3 Touring offers a unique blend of power and precision. The vehicle's design and engineering enhancements for 2025 further sharpen its focus on driver engagement, making it clear that this car is not for the faint of heart or those seeking leisurely rides. It's an invitation to a world where every gear change and every turn is an exhilarating dialogue between man and machine, pushing the boundaries of what a road-legal car can deliver.

Uncompromising Performance and Sensory Overload

The 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 Touring is a true test of a driver's commitment, delivering an intense, uncompromised experience. Powered by a 502-hp naturally aspirated flat-six engine, it produces an exhilarating 99-decibel scream in Sport mode, creating a visceral connection that vibrates through the driver's seat. The suspension, with its stiffest 'Sport' setting, offers an unyielding ride, designed for the track rather than comfort, embodying the car's racing DNA. While it may appear like a regular 911 from the outside due to its lack of a fixed rear wing, its interior intensity and raw mechanical feedback ensure an unforgettable, albeit demanding, driving journey.

This vehicle is engineered for ultimate driver engagement, making everyday drives feel like high-stakes qualification rounds. The relentless engine noise and persistent vibrations are not flaws but integral features, highlighting its dedication to a pure, undiluted driving sensation. The firm suspension, even in its most compliant setting, transmits every road imperfection directly to the driver, reinforcing the vehicle's race-bred character. For the true enthusiast, these characteristics are not deterrents but rather affirmations of the GT3 Touring's authentic performance identity, offering an immersive experience that few other road cars can match.

Enhanced Dynamics and Driver Engagement

For 2025, the GT3 Touring introduces a key enhancement with an 8 percent shorter final-drive ratio for both automatic and manual versions. This adjustment reduces maximum speeds in each gear, making its 9000-rpm redline more accessible in everyday driving scenarios and allowing drivers to experience the engine's full potential more frequently. Exterior updates include integrated front turn signals within the headlight housings, enabling larger air intakes for improved engine and brake cooling. Internally, a digital tachometer replaces the analog version, a minor change that maintains the car's high-performance aesthetic.

These meticulous modifications underscore Porsche's dedication to optimizing the GT3 Touring's dynamic capabilities and driver interaction. The shorter gearing allows for quicker acceleration and more immediate access to the engine's power band, enhancing the thrill of its high-revving nature. Aerodynamic improvements, borrowed from the 911 GT3 RS, further refine its handling and stability, ensuring precise control at high speeds. Despite the shift to a digital tachometer, the core essence of the GT3 Touring remains unchanged: a machine built to deliver an unparalleled and engaging driving experience, particularly for those who prefer the tactile involvement of a manual transmission.

See More