I found the Sequoia very "truck like" and in 2WD, not all that different from any 2WD pick up with an open diff on ice. So not very good at all. I'd be using 4WD pretty much all winter. Even with the SUV bodywork adding some weight over the rear wheels, in RWD mode, it's pretty traction impaired.
Are you sure the Taco had an open diff? Not even limited slip? I've got lots of climbing buds with Tacos and they're not good at all unless they're in 4WD.