Toyota Sequoia Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.54/5 Average
1,105 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 371 through 380 of 1,105.00
  • Excellent SUV - 2013 Toyota Sequoia
    By -

    Replaced my 2006 Honda Odyssey with 2013 Sequoia Limited. Was looking for vehicle that would be roomy (have 3 small kids), safe, and solid performance (mainly acceleration, braking, and ride) - and the Sequoia does not disappoint. Performance - the ride, acceleration and braking are all solid. While this is a large vehicle, its very easy to drive for both myself and my wife. Interior - the fit & finish on the Limited is very nice. This vehicle is extremely quiet - didnt expect that coming from such a large SUV. All around excellent choice if you are looking to move up or out of a minivan.

  • Wow factor in the family SUV - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
    By -

    Just got the Sequoia last weekend and Im wondering why it took us so long to find the perfect family SUV. We had an 03 Expedition that was acting up. Figure wed give Toyota a try since big Ford has let us down on what was suppose to be our 10 year SUV. For being a full size SUV, this machine drives like a car. Suspension is much nicer and acceleration is super smooth. I never thought Id ever switch to a Japanese SUV for fear that its not roomy enough for my family but Im sure glad now. Definitely made the right decision. The design is well thought out for families that need to drive 3 kids in car seats. Love the fact that the 2nd row slides forward for easier access to 3rd row.

  • I rolled my Sequoia during a tornado - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
    By -

    Pain, hit my head, pulled a leg muscle. Walked away. When tow truck arrived. It started. Had a Car lot from 1995 -2000. Best vehicle I ever owned

  • Great for Long Vacation - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
    By -

    I bought the Limited 4x4 5/1/02 and have put 4000 miles on it. 2300 miles coming on a trip from Minnesota to Yellowstone in one week. The ride was great as I never got tired or cramped as I have on long trips in other vehicles. I averaged about 17 mpg overall for the trip which included the mountains. Gas mileage has improved as more miles have been put on. I have encountered no problems at all with this vehicle.

  • Great & powerful SUV - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
    By -

    I love this SUV .Have had 3 4runners, Acura mdx among many other vehicles. Last year We sold our dodge mega cab 2500 diesel and bought a crv. Last year we bought a boat and with several vehicles in our family already with kids driving we decided a used Tahoe or Yukon might be a option. We checked out the older sequoias however the power & towing stats on the 08 sequoia were impressive. We found a used sr5 with nearly all the options we wanted and fell in love with the car. Dream to drive..be realistic about the mileage ..it is what you would expect with the size and power..if mileage is your hang up you will want to pass. If you want power,space reliability and pure fun then give it a shot!

  • Recommended - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
    By -

    Finally a high quality, full-size SUV. It is great to have another choice!

  • 08 Sequoia Fit and Finish Excellent - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
    By -

    I usually do not acquire first year mfg. vehicle unless its from a top tier car mfgs. Toyota did a fine job, this beast, and I mean beast, drives very smooth and taught with tremendous power, room, and accessories that very much fits my taste. Exterior and interior is well appointed while at this same-time it provides a not too "girly" look.

  • SUV comparison - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
    By -

    I have owned over 7 SUVs since 1998 and have found that this Toyota Sequoia is the best driving one of all. The turning radius is the smallest of all. The safety features and navigation system only add to the value one gets with this vehicle. The technology is mind boggling. The blue tooth cell phone aspect allows the driver to answer thier phone on the steering wheel with out ever having to reach for the cell phone. Caller ID shows up on the nav system screen. The rear camera allows the driver to see whats there and the sensors keep you from running into things. I strongly recomend this vehicle to people who are concerned with safety and reliability.

  • Stolen Seats - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
    By -

    For those of you who onw a Sequia, I just had my 3rd row seats stolen out of my drive way. So watch out, for some reason they are hot items on the market.

  • 2008 Sequoia - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
    By -

    We absolutely love our new Sequoia! We had a 2005 4Runner that was fine, but we now have 2 1/2 year old twins along with a 65 pound lab and definitely wanted more space everywhere within a new vehicle. My husband and I are truly die-hard Toyota fans, and were waiting for the new Sequoias to arrive. We are extremely pleased with the way it rides, the comfort of all the seats and were really impressed with how easy it was to actually drive. We both thought it may, for the lack of a better description, "float" as you drove it. However, it is very easy and fun to drive. It provides tons of space and just enough gadgets to keep everyone happy.

Toyota Sequoia Reviews By Year:
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