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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  sequoia - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
  By dana wright - August 27 - 2:16 pm

  Love the ride, the interior, the stereo, the seats are much more comfortable than the 99 model

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  Sequoia rocks - 2006 Toyota Sequoia
  By Jacque - August 24 - 3:36 am

  No issues since buying new. Great in the snow and on regular surfaces. Fun off road. Lowest cost per mile as far as I can tell. Neighbors new Tahoe has been in twice for mechanical glitches...

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  Not So Good w/ Standing Behind Product - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
  By cmadeira - August 17 - 11:13 pm

  Good ride and plenty of power - nice styling - had problem with design of 3rd row seat resulting in a bent latching mechanism - Toyota will not stand behind the product and repair under warranty. Also having trouble with bad exhaust odor in cabin after heavy acceleration - this seems to big a very common complaint from owners, but dealer in Austin did not know what to do about it. Will probably consider other makes next time around.

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  Our first Sequoia - 2006 Toyota Sequoia
  By g4zilla - August 17 - 5:50 pm

  Were 500 miles into our 2006 Sequoia, and are very impressed. This rig is smooth, rock solid, and very well appointed. Our kids, both teenagers, love the roominess ("Dad! My knees dont touch your seat!") and I look forward to Toyotas legendary dependability. Though its a large SUV, it handles like a smaller vehicle. I never feel as though Im driving a school bus! Recently, my son and I were traveling on the highway, and he turned to me and said, "Dad, this Sequoia is so quiet!" He was absolutely right. I looked down at the speedometer...oops, 80 mph! And that is my final point: the quiet, smooth ride betrays nothing of your speed.

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  Whats all the hype? - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By brian4cde - August 17 - 10:00 am

  I find this vehicle roomy & comfortable, but frustrating! Ignition is great: no holding key. Climate controls are OK. Defogging windshield is difficult. Controls, at steering column & elsewhere, are awkwardly placed & frustrating to use. Beware: power outlets go dead when the car is off. Seats are easy to move once you get used to it. Oddly enough, you cant get the rear spoiler w/the moonroof we wanted. This brings me to the most annoying thing: Noise & odors are ridiculous with open windows. The rear gate window is adjustable, but, dont open it when you accelerate: you will suck fumes. Open the side window and you get a loud pulsating noise. Open the moonroof & it sounds like an airport.

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  sequia - 2006 Toyota Sequoia
  By JP - August 17 - 6:13 am

  I am very satisfied with this suv. On long runs, using cruise control, mileage hits 19 mpg.It is very comfortable and handles very well.

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  One of the best suvs ever! - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By dk - August 13 - 9:16 pm

  Very dependable, comfortable, loaded with style and performance. Definitely worth spending the $40,000 plus for the Limited edition. The leather is very comfortable epecially with the heated seats. Great family vehicle.

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  Interstate Cruiser - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By navintel - August 12 - 11:36 pm

  The Sequoia is a great interstate cruiser, comfortable,easy to drive and plenty of power when you need it. Plenty of room for people and cargo and got 21.1 mpg going from Delaware to AZ. I have taken it off-road several times with no problems.

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  New 08 Sequoia - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By Ben - August 10 - 8:06 am

  I recently bought a 2008 Sequoia Limited, brand new from Hudson Toyota in Jersey City NJ. After researching the Armada, Yukon, Escalade I decided to get a new Sequoia for style, reliability, and resale value. After owning the car for a few weeks, I am so happy with my decision. The Sequoia has so many smart options on the inside, if you have a family you really cant beat the user experience of this SUV.

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  Premature exhaust manifold crack at 4k. - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By Jomer - August 9 - 11:53 pm

  I purchased my 08 Sequoia last Jan 09, after 3 days the headliner rattled, the headlamp washer cover discolored. After 4k miles the exhaust manifold cracked! Interior very plasticky and hollow!