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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  Toyota Sequoia Review - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By DeanGregg - November 8 - 2:00 am

  Weve had the Sequoia for almost 6 months and this is the best vehicle that I have ever driven. Ive driven BMW, Mercedes, you name it and the Sequoia beats it. I test drove the competition and there is no comparison to the power, agility, handling, and quality of the Sequoia. I dont know why, but the competition have horsepower ratings well in excess of the Sequoia...all you have to do is step on the accelerator and the numbers mean nothing...this thing has POWER! The best thing is Toyota quality. Ive owned Toyotas for years and they just dont have problems. period!

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  Excellent for Trailer boaters. - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By Boater - November 7 - 10:00 am

  We pull about 4700 lb. boat/trailer and have used the Sequoia on some very steep/wet ramps. 4wd high works great and 4-low with loc-up will pull you out of anything. With 3, preteen boys, we enjoy the extra room and look forward to using this vehicle for many years to come.

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  Bigger and Better - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By Jette - November 7 - 10:00 am

  I admit, I am a Toyota fan. This is my forth Toyota. We had a Rav4 and wanted something bigger. We loved the feel of an SUV, but needed more room. We test drove it after trying out a 4Runner and there is no comparison. More room, more power and great handling.

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  2005 sequoia - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
  By jrodgers - November 4 - 1:40 pm

  Very comfortable drivers seat. Have a back problem and traded in my 4Runner on the Sequoia. Big! Lots of room! Gas guzzler, but that is to be expected. Reverse detent not easy to get into. Gear shift on the steering column not a plus. Terrible turning radius. Excessive idle speed for about three to five minutes when first started. Could prove dangerous. Vibration at 30-50 mph when climbing a gently hill.Feels like a missfire, but the dealer here said all is ok. Park distance warning a must for this vehicle. Tires seem to lose pressure more quickly than other I have had. Have tire press. monitor system.

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  U cannot judge with one bad experience - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By Guest - October 30 - 5:53 pm

  How can u beleive the car sales guy. I think this vehicle is an excellent city ride and freeway ride and good off-road ride with 4X4.

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  Best SUV on the road! - 2010 Toyota Sequoia
  By tphisey - October 30 - 6:16 am

  This has to be the best SUV currently on the road. Prior to this I owned a Suburban. Chevrolet cannot compare to the quality and performance of this vehicle. The interior was extremely well thought out. Options are minimal making competitors fail in comparison as they nickle and dime you to get close to the quality of the Sequoia. The engine performance is excellent. Good mileage 17MPG (13.8 L/ 100km). I do not notice any lack of performance when pulling my 7000lb travel trailer. The vehicle is children friendly and focused with ease of access to all rows and built in sun shades with all windows. The dealership treatment is second to none with seven years of oil changes included.

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  Best SUV for the Money - 2016 Toyota Sequoia
  By Ron - October 25 - 8:31 am

  I shopped around and finally decided on the 2016 Platinum. I looked at the GMC but although it was a nice SUV they make it hard to buy. You literally have to choose every little feature. Some are confusing and not clear as to what they are or mean. Where with the Platinum, there were only a few options available, the rest were included. It has so many wonderful creature comforts. Side window Shades, Big Seats front and second. Blu Ray player, Sensors for backing up and forward, Blind Spot on the Highway, The Third row is big and roomy. Front and rear Heat/AC controls that really work. I could go on and on. I miss one feature I had on my 2012 4Runner. Keyless push button Start. Also the ability to open the doors from the outside with the Transponder in my Pocket. After I got used to not having that, it was ok, but wish it did have that feature. Also its a little thirstier on Gas but its OK. I love the Toyota Brand and this SUV is made right here in the good old USA. Indianna to be exact. After all is said and done, I love this Car/Truck.

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  nice truck - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By toshoku - October 2 - 2:00 am

  the best full size utility vehicle in the market, bar none!!

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  electrical problem - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By mannyboy - September 30 - 12:00 am

  I bought it brand new a 2001 model love it but lately having problems with my electrical.

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  2002 4WD Sequoia - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By Prefers Harleys - September 28 - 3:33 am

  Bought new in 2002 and now have 110K miles on vehicle with little problems. After 2 years, rear window got REAL sluggish, so we left it up for a year afraid it would break. Toyota told us they had replaced a lot of motors. Waited one year, did nothing, works fine now. Too big to really go brush busting but wife likes it. I prefer my 1985 Land Cruiser. Parking brake stinks and truck lurchs forward after applying brake on slight incline. 3 weeks after brake service can drive 55 mph with parking brake on before realizing its on. Sister bought an 06, no parking brake problem. Mileage improved after 100K. Now we get 16.6 mpg in Georgia. Only get 6 mpg pulling 3500 pound boat though.