Toyota Teases New Large SUV: We Evaluate the Possibilities
Today’s news is brought to you by the word cryptic. As in the cryptic nature of the teaser Toyota just sent out.
A three sentence, 19 word press release was sent to us with the picture shown above. It simply read “Something big is coming to the Toyota SUV lineup. A clear picture will come into view soon. Stay tuned.”
So what could it be? Well, clearly, it is a large SUV, and judging by the attached teaser image, it is not a sloping roof SUV coupe. That leaves one of four possibilities; a new 4Runner, a new Land Cruiser, a new Sequoia, or a completely new SUV. Let’s explore each possibility
New Land Cruiser?
The thoughts of it being the new Land Cruiser make sense since an all-new version of the large SUV was just introduced. But, sadly, we already know the Land Cruiser is not coming to North America (as a Toyota at least), so this is unlikely the vehicle.
New Sequoia?
This is a strong possibility as the current Sequoia has been on the market since the 2008 model year. That’s an unbelievable 15 years since its last full refresh. Plus, the Toyota Tundra in-which it is based on was recently overhauled. So maybe it is this.
New 4Runner?
Like the Sequoia, the current 4Runner generation has been around awhile, 13 years and counting. It didn’t get reborn along with the Tacoma for the 2016 model year, so it’s overdue for an overhaul. This could also very possibly be it.
Larger Crossover?
Our final guess could be an all-new crossover to slot above the Toyota Highlander. Something more the size of the Chevrolet Traverse and Volkswagen Atlas. Does Toyota need a fifth, three row vehicle? Maybe, as we have always commented on the Highlander having a tight third row and not everyone wants to step all the way up to the body-on-frame Sequoia.
A 20+ year industry veteran, Mike rejoins the AutoGuide team as the Managing Editor. He started his career at a young age working at dealerships, car rentals, and used car advertisers. He then found his true passion, automotive writing. After contributing to multiple websites for several years, he spent the next six years working at the head office of an automotive OEM, before returning back to the field he loves. He is a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA). He's the recipient of a feature writing of the year award and multiple video of the year awards.
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The corolla little suv was just announced. Why it was needed with rav 4 and highlander and taco and sequoia etc i dont know. Another too small suv.
I have previously sent this same comment to Toyota. But knowing how stubborn the Japanese are to outside suggestions, I did not expect a response... and I did Not get one! My comment said: they need to make whatever 3 row SUV they have... with a wheelbase of at least 115" (like the Kia Tulluride /Hyundai Palesade)....or 120"(like the Ford Explorer. Wheelbases of 109-110" just DON'T Cut It for the 3rd row to have any decent leg room. So - Yes something bigger than the Highlander IS needed. Or a Highlander "L".