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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  Great Vechical, gald I waited for the 05 - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
  By Mrchips77 - July 12 - 10:00 am

  Purchased the 2005 Sequoia Limited with the LUXURY package. Gives you a removeable console with 2nd row bucket seats. Paint is the new Artic Frost Pearl. Only available in that trim. So far in 3 days PERFECT. Made a Navigator I was looking at seem like a piece of junk. Great car, side curtain air bags, more HP, 5 gears, list 46K, bought for just under 41K. In this class of vechical I do not think you could do better. The dealership I bought one at gave us extra oil chagnes and even a extra detailing. Even sending me a basket of cookies. Anyone wanting a good internet purchase in Atlanta , found the place. Even have massage and manicure for woman who bring their car in for service.

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  Good Quality Truck, so so Mileage - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By AD - July 10 - 6:53 pm

  Purchased in 5/02. Build quality has been superb. In three years here is what has been replaced (except for maintenance items): Oil Pressure Gauge, Security Transmitters, and Brake Rotors--all by Warranty. Front Ball joints replaced under recall. Truck has been very solid. Good travel truck for a family. Interior has a tendancy to scratch and show scuffs. MPG is not as good as I like (~ 15) but considering the size and weight it is inline. Original tires were poor (Dunlop) replaced with Michelin cross terrain and are much improved! Blind spot is quite large and recommend small mirror additions to address. Would purchase again if gas prices had not jumped so much. Great vehicle!

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  momstoy - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By butchie - June 28 - 10:00 am

  Besides the air conditioner being replaced the first year we have had very little problems with the sequioa. Some of the covers for the seat to floor mounts have fallen off and wont stay on but it drives quiet, smooth and we get many complements and inquiries on the vehicle. It pulled my 18ft fishing boat and 3 men with all our gear for a week long fishing trip 9 hours one way without any trouble at all. I had the air on, cruiese set and she pulled the boat almost as if it wasnt there.

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  Best buy - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By kalloo - June 28 - 10:00 am

  Overall very comfortable. Inspite of its size, handles well even at high speeds and in hilly areas. Not too difficult to parallel park. Gives 17-19mpg on Highway. about 15 in city of boise Had to replace tires at 20,000 and front brakes are already gone with just over 21000 miles.

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  toyota sequoia - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By ralfynika - June 23 - 12:40 pm

  It is a very reliable SUV. it is fun to drive and when you push it you can hear that iforce 4.7 v8 roaring down the street. This SUV can last you year and it not a very high maintenance car. This are made to be off road and right now i got 20 inch falken rims and when i bring it on the grass or dirt it preforms like a monster.

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  Cant give it up - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By Kristen - June 23 - 8:33 am

  We just wrapped up a 5500 mile summer road trip from Texas to Canada, through the north east, down the east coast and back. We are a family of 4 and we couldnt have done this without our Sequoia. We took out one of the back row seats & folded up the passenger side middle row seat. The kids were in two different rows and we had coolers for food & drinks. The truck is roomy enough for all of us to spread out for the long haul. Awesome. PLUS, we have never, ever had an engine problem. We replaced the back window motor, but thats it. GREAT truck. Cant imagine having another vehicle.

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  Love my Sequoia - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By grandma linda - June 22 - 10:00 am

  We bought our 4WD in June 2001 right when they were (slowly) becoming popular. Very few of these were in the San Gabriel Valley of So. Cal. I* think the rpice scared everyone, including us. But truely, its the best $40+ grand we ever spent. We tow our 6,000 pound boat, to the the river/lake every two weeks during spring and summer and it tows like a charm, without a problem. Everyone who has ridden in it, cant believe how comfortable and roomy it is. The third seat has had two big guys in it and they commented on the amount of room. The sunroof is the BIGGEST offered by any auto maker . . . LOVE THAT SUN!

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  Satisfied! - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By Cesar R. - June 16 - 2:00 am

  Boy, I was debating wether to buy the Sequoia or a Tahoe. Im real happy I made the right choice. Going back, I dont know how I even considered a Tahoe over this one!

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  Solid Rig - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Leon Kowalski - June 15 - 3:04 am

  I bought my 2003 Sequoia in 2013 and still have it. In that time Ive only had to replace two o2 sensors and some minor front-end suspension component. Great, reliable vehicle. Quiet, too. 3rd row seat not horrible and accommodates two adults or three kids okay. Crummy gas mileage, though.

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  Great Truck - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By LBI Mike - June 14 - 10:00 am

  Great Quality vehicle. Great style, ride and features. Powertrain is smooth and quiet. Love the truck.