2012 Toyota Sequoia vs 2021 Kia Telluride vs 2016 Infiniti QX80
Reliability Side-by-Side
2012
Toyota Sequoia
Grade A-
A supremely durable and capable full-size SUV that delivers reliable service for hundreds of thousands of miles.
2021
Kia Telluride
Grade A-
An exceptional family SUV that delivers premium value and confident reliability, despite a few early production hiccups.
2016
Infiniti QX80
Grade B+
A powerhouse of reliability and luxury, the QX80 is a strong contender for worry-free upscale SUV ownership.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2012 Toyota Sequoia
Score 90/100 vs 88/100
Best for Lowest Annual Upkeep
2012 Toyota Sequoia
$400-600
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2012 Toyota Sequoia★ | 2021 Kia Telluride | 2016 Infiniti QX80 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $400-600 | $450-700 | $500-800 |
| Moderate Repairs | $500-1,500 occasionally | $600-1,800 occasionally | $600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., HVAC blend door, suspension bushings, brake overhaul) |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 13 / 17 | 20 / 26 | 14 / 20 |
| MSRP (New) | $40,930 | $32,190 | $63,050 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
2-4" Upper Control Arm for 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra and Sequoia - KSP Performance
1"-3" Upeer Control Arm For 2021+ Isuzu & 2020+ Mazda - KSP Performance
08-18 Nissan 370z Infiniti G37 Exhaust Downpipe Kits|2WD - KSP Performance
Biggest Risks on Each
2012 Toyota Sequoia
Fuel System
80,000-150,000 mi
HVAC System
60,000-120,000 mi
Suspension Components
100,000-180,000 mi
2021 Kia Telluride
Electrical / Infotainment System
5,000-30,000 mi
Suspension Components
20,000-60,000 mi
8-Speed Automatic Transmission
10,000-40,000 mi
2016 Infiniti QX80
HVAC System
60,000-100,000 mi
Power Liftgate
75,000-120,000 mi
Exhaust Manifold
90,000-150,000 mi
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Editorial Take
This comparison explores three distinct approaches to the large SUV segment: the traditional, rugged utility of the 2012 Toyota Sequoia, the modern, feature-rich design of the 2021 Kia Telluride, and the powerful, luxurious presence of the 2016 Infiniti QX80. These vehicles appeal to families needing significant passenger and cargo capacity, but their appeal diverges based on priorities like cutting-edge technology, towing prowess, fuel efficiency, or long-term durability. Key decision factors often revolve around the importance of a plush cabin versus sheer reliability, and whether a brand-new, efficient crossover better suits needs than a robust, older full-size SUV. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2012 Toyota Sequoia: 1. Secondary Air Injection Pump: Some 5.7L V8 engines from this era can experience issues with the secondary air injection pump and valves, leading to a check engine light, typically at higher mileages (e.g., beyond 100,000 miles). 2. Brake Wear: Due to its substantial curb weight, the Sequoia can be prone to accelerated brake wear and rotor pulsation, especially if frequently hauling or towing, often requiring attention around 40,000-60,000 miles. 2021 Kia Telluride: 1. Infotainment Glitches: Early production models (including some 2021s) occasionally reported minor software bugs within the infotainment system, such as freezing or slow responses, largely addressed with software updates. 2. Windshield Cracking: Some owners have noted a higher incidence of windshield cracks, potentially without clear impact points, possibly due to specific glass properties or mounting design. 2016 Infiniti QX80: 1. Outdated Infotainment System: By 2016, the QX80's infotainment system was showing its age, with a smaller, less responsive touchscreen and a lack of modern features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, often described as unintuitive. 2. Suspension Component Wear: Some owners have reported premature wear of suspension bushings or wheel bearings, leading to clunking noises or hums, particularly around 60,000-80,000 miles, requiring replacement.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When new, the 2021 Kia Telluride was the most affordable, starting around $32,190, offering significant feature-per-dollar value. The 2012 Toyota Sequoia began around $40,930, valued for its capability and reliability. The 2016 Infiniti QX80 was the luxury leader, starting at $63,050. On the current used market, these dynamics shift. A 2012 Toyota Sequoia typically ranges from $15,000-$25,000 due to its legendary longevity. A 2021 Kia Telluride, in high demand, often commands $30,000-$45,000 or more, retaining strong resale value. A 2016 Infiniti QX80 has experienced greater depreciation, often found for $20,000-$35,000, making it an attractive luxury used bargain. Insurance costs for the QX80 will generally be highest due to its luxury status and higher potential repair costs. The Telluride will likely be mid-range, while the Sequoia, despite its age, might be slightly higher than the Telluride due to its size, though generally less than the QX80. Maintenance costs for the Sequoia are typically the lowest; its robust engineering and readily available parts mean routine service is inexpensive. The Telluride has slightly higher parts and labor costs than Toyota. The QX80 will incur the highest maintenance and repair expenses, particularly for luxury-specific components or dealership service. Fuel costs will be significantly higher for the V8-powered Sequoia and QX80 compared to the more efficient Telluride. Resale value is a strong point for the Toyota Sequoia, known for holding its value exceptionally well over many years and high mileage. The Kia Telluride also enjoys excellent resale value, especially in its first few years due to high demand. The Infiniti QX80, like most luxury vehicles, experiences more substantial depreciation.
Editorial Verdict
Best for families: The 2021 Kia Telluride is the top choice for most modern families. It delivers an outstanding blend of contemporary styling, advanced technology, generous interior space (including a usable third row), strong safety features, and relatively good fuel economy, all at a competitive price point. Best for commuters: The 2021 Kia Telluride excels for commuters. Its superior fuel economy (19-26 MPG), comfortable and quiet ride, more car-like handling, and a full suite of driver-assistance features make it the least fatiguing and most economical for daily driving. Best for enthusiasts: Neither vehicle is designed as a true performance machine. However, for an enthusiast who values potent V8 power, confident acceleration (0-60 mph in 6.2-6.5 seconds), a luxurious driving environment, and strong towing capability, the 2016 Infiniti QX80 is the preferred option. Best value overall: While the 2021 Kia Telluride offers immense value when purchased new due to its feature set, the 2012 Toyota Sequoia takes the crown for long-term overall value on the used market. For buyers prioritizing absolute durability, maximum space, significant towing, and minimal long-term repair costs well into high mileage, a well-maintained used Sequoia offers unparalleled utility and a low total cost of ownership for its current used price.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2012 Toyota Sequoia
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