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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  Superior to the competition - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By dusa - September 2 - 10:00 am

  Having owned Ford and Chevy SUVs, I tried several 03 Expeditons, Yukons and Tahoes before sampling three Sequoias. The quality of the Sequoias was clearly superior. All of the Fords and GMs had little problems (rattles, squeaks, vibrations,loose,poorly fitting or non-functional parts). The Sequoias engine and drivetrain were the smoothest and it had the quietest ride. Its technology was equal or better than the others.

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  Sequoia - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Daniel Yoon - September 2 - 10:00 am

  The vehicle is large. It is also pleasantly just as big on the inside. The Sequoia is very comfortable, agile (for a truck), and extremely quiet. Everything you would expect from Toyota with maybe a touch of Lexus is instilled in this vehicle. From the fly-by-wire ignition system to the DVD player, it is a wonderful vehicle to drive.

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  the perfect toyota - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By marrerofmly - August 28 - 10:00 am

  this is a verry nice suv it drives like a car if you would like to drive something like no other vehicle yuo have to try the siquoia limited 4WD

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  Despite some problems I love my Sequoia! - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By carzz72 - August 19 - 10:00 am

  I have a 2001 Limited with 160,000 Miles Sequoia ya it has a few problems rotors,pads,calipers, on mine so far Havent had any issues with Transmission or hatch/latch breaking like some others on here other then the Brakes.I love the the design out & inside a lot better then a expedition or Tahoe their both are just square and plain like most older American vehicles LOL I just sold my wifes Mazda6(S) & bought this cause I have 3 kids & 1 on the way you cant beat this vehicle

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  Toyota is NOT TOPS with me - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By fagan8254 - August 14 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle has been in the shop 6X in its 4 month life. I have had the rotors replaced, 2 tires replaced (for wearing) and the noise in this vehicle in incredible. I also only get 13.1 on the fuel guage no matter what) I am SOOO disappointed in this one. I am selling it in the AJC (for what I paid for it) and expect to get it (since it is a Toyota!!) I am the cheapest one listed in the paper. Which says alot for imports. (I don;t say that feciously, since I couldnt give my 1999 Expedition away

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  Love the Dependability of Ride, BUT NOT the Brakes - 2016 Toyota Sequoia
  By G. R. Ferris - August 11 - 11:50 pm

  This model is in serious need of updating. The style is old & outdated. We were going to potentially purchase a new, Platinum model, but we dont want the old style/look. If Toyota doesnt produce a serious update , well probably purchase some other SUV. Biggest complaint: The brakes. We have constantly had to replace the pads and rotors all TOO often. Corporate office doesnt seem to care about the issue. They need to use vented rotors, to reduce the heat build up. But, thats expensive too. Weve driven across the country a few times and this vehicle has been VERY reliable. The navigation system is in desperate need of updating. Its way behind the times. Radio reception is horrible, compared to our Lexus.

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  Over two years and not a single problem - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Frequent buyer - August 1 - 2:00 am

  We switched to Sequoia from a 4Runner. I dont want to bore you with the initial decision making and comparisons I made. We have had this SUV for two years now. Have taken it to all nasty road conditions. The car drives as if it is on rails. The has a much more dynamic feel than the 4Runner (ironic isnt it/). More importantly, this SUV has never had to go back to dealer . Not even for an adjustment. I cant say the same for our European cars. I really recommend this SUV.

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  Excellent all-around vehicle - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By offroad - July 30 - 3:03 pm

  This is a great alternative to a Tahoe or Expedition. They handle well for a fullsize truck and cornering is flat with slight understeer when pushed too far. The traction control seems to do more harm than good. No way to turn it off either. Almost got it stuck 3 weeks after purchase going places I previously took my 4x4 pickup. Climbing a muddy hill, engine cuts power when tires slip leaving you with no momentum. Even with street tires, it should do better.

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  best full sizer - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By carexpert - July 25 - 10:16 pm

  if you must have a full size suv, sequoia is the way to go. fact: american cars suffer dearly from poor quality. if you think otherwise, youre a fool who has not done your homework. sequoia brings together this higher end quality with most of the desireable features in fullsize suvs. is it a little pricey for the LMTD? yes, but you get put a little more at ease knowing its a toyota. if you must have an suv and can afford $40K, the sequoia would be my 1st pick again in a heartbeat.

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  My Sequoia - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By John601 - July 10 - 10:00 am

  This is a nice riding vehicle and has plenty of room. I have to rave with the Toyota line and wouldnt drive anything else. My overall experiences, throughout the years have been excellent.