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:

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  send to management - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By TLN - September 21 - 10:00 am

  Overall---great.Driving to florida and back excellant on highyway,city.Some things that could be improved..Also with all SUVs.Dashboard, clock should be on top,too much style rather than efficiently.Its a chore to locate vent ac/heat and others,The driver has to take too much eye focus of the road,to try to figure where things are at.Glove box..why do you need 3 of them?

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  Warrens Sequoia - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Warren T. Johnson Sr - September 21 - 10:00 am

  This vehichle has the whole package. I was really impressed when took a trip to Las Vegas with a full load of passengers and luggage. The Sequoia was comfortable for everyone and there was plenty of power.

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  PRISE FOR SEQUOIA - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By mrgson - September 9 - 2:00 am

  This was choice between GMC Envoy,Isuzu Ascender and Toyota Sequoia. I selected the Sequoia for its value, tight contruction, reliability and smooth ride. I feel totally SAFE behind the wheel.

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  My Toyota experience - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By luan nuriu - September 7 - 7:16 pm

  I have enjoyed my big SUV for a little over 3 years. I only have positive things to say about it. My job as a dealership service manager (with Mercedes-Benz) I have the opportunity to drive the ML on a daily basis and see the repair frequency of Mercedes- Benz & other makes and models as the dealership takes trades in all the time. I can tell you that Toyotas quality is 2nd to none! My Toyota SUV is a joy to own and drive, I recommend it to any one in need of a full size SUV.

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  Sequoia is Best in Class! - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By bamadaves - September 7 - 10:00 am

  After comparing and test driving Sequoia, Tahoe/Yukon, Expedition we decided that the Sequoia was best for us. This vehicle drives like a limosine on the highway and is much quieter than its domestic counterparts. It also has significantly more room behind the 3rd seat which is great for storage/luggage. Great 2nd seat leg room. More expensive that similarly equipped competitor models but I was willing to pay for Toyota reliability/quality. Also resale value is very high. There are many reasons why this vehicle heads up the editors and consumers most wanted lists for SUVs.

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  Kicks the Cadis in the tail - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By LukeSKy - September 7 - 10:00 am

  You cant go wrong, I have drove them all ! the cadi suv looks nicer but only get 1/2 the miles per gallon of gas. Also this truck is a low emmission vehicle...I love mine.

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  Tough to beat - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By Ed Evans - September 4 - 7:53 pm

  After owning both a Suburban and Expedition, I can say this is the best of the breed. The smooth ride, tight control, luxurious interior, and JBL sound system make long trips enjoyable. The heart of a Tundra and the soul of a Lexus. I love it!

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  Will I Buy Another Toyota? - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By Calvin Swine - September 2 - 10:00 am

  Rattles worse than 10 year old Explorer. Fold up seats take foot off cargo capacity. JBL radio does not work. Speakers fade in and out - now only one speaker working. Supposedly a TSB on this. Repeated trips to the dealer "I cant make any money on this" service managers quote! Interior fit and finish are average - side of leather seat already has a wear-hole. Car hesitates on acceleration after sharp turn, etc., etc. Very dissapointed in quality AND service. Toyota should be ashamed and should fire the service manager. After all of this the dealer charges me $40 for rental car. Toyota? Never again!!!!

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  Best vehicle Ive ever owned - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By Rob S. - September 1 - 5:05 pm

  Purchased new in 2004. Ive done all the dealer recommended services. It has 196,000 miles and still drives like new. Ive had a few expensive repairs like the starter and of course routine maintenance like water pumps and timing belt. Ive also replaced a few parts on the exterior due to sun fading. But it continues to be a solid and reliable vehicle. Insurance is lower because its 12 years old as well as registration. Dealership tells me since weve done all the service it should go 300 too 400k miles. My last vehicle was a chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon Denali. Both had fewer miles and twice as many repairs.

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  90s Basic for Luxury price - 2016 Toyota Sequoia
  By Essa Bercaw - August 28 - 11:21 pm

  I have only had the car for three weeks. It has everything that I wanted in a SUV, 4-wheel drive, all 7 passenger seats can fit adults, and it does not feel like I am driving a bus. (Like the Chevy Suburban) I however feel like I am paying for the 4-wheel drive, as my previous vehicle – a 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan, had more bells and whistles for technology, than this 2016 Sequoia.