Overview & Reviews

As the largest SUV in the Toyota lineup, the full-size Sequoia is designed to accommodate families who need three real rows of seating, a fair amount of off-road capability and the ability to tow a boat or other trailer. In reality, we suspect that only a small percentage of Toyota Sequoia owners are especially outdoorsy. But this hasn't prevented the Sequoia from becoming a popular choice due to its refined road manners and comfortable interior.

Throughout its run, the Toyota Sequoia has been notable for its V8 power, choice of two- or four-wheel drive and its roomy interior. Newer and larger Sequoias are spacious enough for large families and offer enough in the way of creature comforts to justify the rather hefty price when nicely optioned. Throw in attractive styling inside and out and until recently, a choice of two powerful V8 engines, and you've got the makings of a very competitive full-size SUV. Earlier Sequoias, though not quite as capable as competing models of the same period, are also a solid pick.

Current Toyota Sequoia
The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV that is based on the Tundra pickup truck. With traditional body-on-frame construction, it is blessed with greater off-road and towing capabilities than its car-based competitors. Fortunately, Toyota has managed to dial out much of the bouncy pickup truck ride qualities, making it quite pleasant to drive on a day-to-day basis. Power comes by way of a 5.7-liter V8 with 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic is the only transmission offered, but buyers can choose between rear- and four-wheel drive.

Toyota offers the Sequoia in three trim levels: SR5, Limited and Platinum. Base SR5 models come with alloy wheels, a 40/20/40 second-row bench seat, triple-zone automatic climate control, iPod connectivity, Bluetooth, the Entune smartphone integration system and full power accessories. The Limited adds leather upholstery, power front seats and an upgraded stereo. The range-topping Platinum tops it off with 20-inch wheels, load-leveling rear air springs, adaptive shock absorbers, a power liftgate, second-row captain's chairs (dropping capacity to seven) and a navigation system. Most of these features are available as options on supporting trims. A rear seat entertainment center is only offered on the top model.

A large SUV, the Toyota Sequoia seats seven or eight, depending on the configuration. Thanks to an independent rear suspension (unlike its Tundra pickup platform-mate), the third-row seat folds flat into the floor, a welcome departure from the previous-generation Sequoia. Fold all the seats down and there are a substantial 120 cubic feet of cargo room.

In our reviews of the current Toyota Sequoia, we've been impressed with its surprising maneuverability, overall refinement and the power generated by the 5.7-liter V8. Other than a funky control layout that puts some knobs closer to the passenger than the driver, we can't find much to fault. For a truck-based, full-size SUV, the Sequoia is an excellent choice.

Used Toyota Sequoia Models
The current Toyota Sequoia represents the second generation that debuted for 2008. Initially, it had a 276-hp 4.7-liter V8 and five-speed automatic as standard. The 5.7-liter V8 was optional. Model-year 2009 was skipped, while the following year saw the arrival of front-seat knee airbags, standard Bluetooth and iPod integration as well as a more powerful 4.6-liter base V8 that produced 310 hp and 327 lb-ft of torque. This base engine was short-lived, however, as Toyota discontinued it for the 2013 model year, leaving the 5.7-liter V8 as the only engine available. Other than lacking the Entune smartphone integration system, these latter Sequoias are identical to the current version.

The first-generation Toyota Sequoia full-size SUV debuted for the 2001 model year. In many ways, this eight-passenger SUV was the first serious import challenge to the large domestic sport-utilities. Initially, its standard 4.7-liter V8 produced 240 hp and was mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. There were two trim levels -- SR5 and Limited -- and each was available with either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Limited models were decked out with luxury items, but even base SR5 models had a decent collection of standard equipment.

If you're shopping for a Sequoia of this generation, bear in mind that there were some notable changes during its production run. In 2005, the 4.7-liter V8 got a power bump to 282 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque and was coupled to a new five-speed automatic transmission. (It was later changed to 273 hp due to a revised rating method, with no impact on performance.) The '05 Sequoia also received an exterior freshening and two desirable new options packages, namely, the SR5's sport package and the Limited's luxury package, both of which included a height-adjustable rear suspension. Finally, '07 models were the first to come standard with front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags.

In our reviews of the first-generation Toyota Sequoia, we praised its well-constructed interior, refined driving manner and smooth V8 engine, although in terms of outright power it fell short of class leaders. We also noted that its relatively narrow width made it feel somewhat less gigantic than competitors in tight spaces, although shoulder room was a bit compromised as a result. We didn't appreciate the 50/50 third-row seats, as they were a bit cozy for adults and couldn't be folded flat. On the whole, though, we liked this Sequoia model and would recommend it to used-car shoppers who want the versatility of a full-size SUV in a not-quite-full-size package.

User Reviews:

• 

  Sequoias are the best - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By DFH2004 - March 12 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned a Jeep CJ7, Grand Wagoneer, Exporer XLT and none can be compared to this Sequoia. I average 21.5 mpg on the highway which is great for a 5,700 lb vehicle.

• 

  as Tony the Tiger would say "GREAT" - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By Big Man - March 11 - 10:00 am

  After driving Toyota Land Crusiers in the past I was not happy to be paying the $65,000 for the new Land Crusier and opted for the more affordable Sequoia. I was not disapointed at all it has better performance and gets better mileage than the crusier. I see alot of people complaining about the little things on the vehicle, but let me tell you thats just what they are little things. When focusing on the big picture this is about as good as it gets. What a great SUV! And remember to buy one now before the Democrats make then illegal to drive!

• 

  Sequoia outbeats Escalade - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By NYCAT521 - March 7 - 2:00 am

  Far more better comfort and luxury than the Cadillac Escalade - saved $10,000

• 

  Safety First - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By Mr. Mike - March 7 - 2:00 am

  We were hit by a chevy truck going 40 MPH square on the front passenger door. Our vehicle was totaled. But sitting on the inside you would hardly know it. One window shattered, otherwise, the interior held strong! We were hit so hard, our vehicle was pushed 20 feet sideways, and pushing another car at the same time. We are replacing it, with another Sequoia! Safety first.

• 

  Sequoia - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By nodefect - March 5 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle looks great ! The workmanship is outstanding, the ride is smooth and responsive unlike other full size SUVs. I drove them all (Explorer,Expedition,Tahoe,Denali,Envoy XL) None of them can compete with Toyota quality.

• 

  sequoia - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By will martinez - March 5 - 10:00 am

  After trying every vehicle in the segment , this is the one I know will last and will keep its value for years to come. Its like driving a car, smooth and strong. Its build quality is the same of a lexus.

• 

  2003 Sequoia - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Wes P - February 21 - 2:00 am

  Recently purchased 03 2WD Limited. Fantastic SUV. Ultra-smooth drivetrain. Great interior ergonomics. Factory DVD system is awesome. Had GMC Yukon but was going broke from fixing it. Little pricey but compared to others in class, its OK. Super-sized sunroof, fun. Have high expectations for vehicle and hope they are met.

• 

  Sequoia - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By John Buck - February 10 - 10:00 am

  Toyota has been problem free from the beginning.

• 

  A Great Truck (SUV) - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By JohnS - February 10 - 10:00 am

  So far it is what I expected... A great truck that has performed to my expectations. I only problem that I have had is that the A/C seized and the whole system had to be replaced on Toyotas nickle. It has plenty of room and seats eight folks comfortably. Performance is good for a big vehicle, could use a little more punch but does very well. I got the Toyota for its reliability and for its longevity... I dont plan on getting one for a while.

• 

  Best SUV on the road - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By David - February 5 - 6:30 am

  This is the best full size suv on the market today. Buy the 5.7 380 plus HP engine for the incredible acceleration and the better gas mileage than the 4.7 litre. The interior in the limited is awesome, with illuminated dash similar to Lexus and hands free bluetooth phone system. The truck rides like a Bentley for 1/4 the cost.