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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  My Sequioa - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By Aida - July 20 - 10:00 am

  We absolutely love this car. It drives great and the seating is wonderfull. We can pack up our kids and friends and be on the move. A couple frustrating things about the vehicle is the long reach from the driver to the console. The CD, radio and A/C buttons seem so faraway. I am 55 and have to physically move forward to reach the controls. The other, is how awful the stereo system is. The sound is awfull... do something about this Toyota. We would more than likely buy another Sequoia but those will be the little things we look at. Overall, it is a great car. Love it, Love it, Love it....

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  NewSUV - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By SUV4ME - July 20 - 10:00 am

  Overall good reliable SUV. Smoother ride than my wifes Expedition. Handles road well. Very roomy interior with comfortable seating. Pleased with basic performance, however disappointed with quality of leather and carpeting. Sound system mediocre. For 40K price tag, features are somewhat of a disappointment.

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  Best SUV available - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By John M. Philly,PA - July 15 - 2:00 am

  Ive had 4X4s for over 20 years. Ford,Chevy,Jeep,Nissan and Lexus.This is by far the most capable 4X4 Ive ever driven. I bought a Sequoia Limited with all the options for just under $50K a little over a month ago. We have already had three pretty good snowstorms and the traction control is flawless. The ride and handling is great. I would recommend this truck to anyone, if you can find one.

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  New owner - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By Bob - July 13 - 7:03 pm

  I traded my 2004 Sequoia in for this 2008 Limited 4WD and so far really like the 2008. In town and interstate driving I average 15mpg. I love the six speed on the console and down shift alot to save brakes and it is very simple to do. The 381HP is smooth and more than enough power. The transmission is very smooth shifting. I liked my 2004 so much I was a little hesitant to trade, but I wouldnt go back now that I have had this 2008 for three weeks. Room out the kazoo. The turning radius is great, three foot less than my 2004.

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  Its worth the $$... - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By JSundberg - July 13 - 10:00 am

  Ive had the Sequoia for over a year now and have put 23,000 miles on. Weve travelled through the mountains (pulling another car), driven on long trips, and used it for everyday work trips - and its been awesome! Havent had a single problem - everything works great and its been a great improvement from past unreliable brands (Dodge).

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  Not great - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
  By CentralValley - July 11 - 9:46 pm

  We bought it to replace a Honda Odyssey because it was quieter and felt more solid. However, it performs worse, averages 7 MPG less and is not as comfortable or cargo-friendly. It refuses to get over 18 mpg on the highway and averages 13 in town. The socket to slide the 3rd row middle shoulder belt into will not hold it in place, so it dangles from the roof. One of the plastic moldings on the exterior of the rt. rear door came loose for no reason. The power rear window motor burned out and needed to be replaced. The dealer said that was common.(???) The rubber flaps in the front cup holders have torn out so cups arent held snug. Too many cheap, hard plastic surfaces inside.

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  Love it!!! - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By susan - July 7 - 4:40 am

  Ive owned Ford Explorer, Jeep Cherokee, Dodge Durango - this is my SECOND Sequoia, what does that say about the car? Ultimate in comfort; Ive got two 65" family members, and the four of us (plus 2 large Rottweilers) are comfortable in this great car on a weekly 3-hour drive to New England ski areas! The power folding exterior mirrors are a godsend when getting on and off the ferry. . . if this car could get great gas mileage, it would be perfect (we get 17 city and 20 highway).

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  Goodbye Suburban - 2010 Toyota Sequoia
  By Figure8 - July 6 - 8:20 pm

  Since picking up our new Sequoia last week, weve driven 900 miles and this is my initial reaction. WOW! Traded 08 suburban and no regrets. At 61", more comfortable seating, tighter turning radius, smoother trans. and quiet like a Lexus. Sound system w/JBL & NAV is easy with IPOD integration. Passing and maintaining 80 on the HWY is now easy and less stressful than our LTZ Sub. Nimble in town, second row space and leg room cannot be beat. No more kicking dads seat from the teenagers.

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  Good SUV with bad workmenship! - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By mesa-sticky - July 2 - 2:00 am

  Over all good SUV but many bad poor workmenship compare to Honda. Very comformatable seat and quiet engine. Be ware with saleperson, The dealer at Keaney mesa do not know what the sale. bad service.

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  Excellent - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By priscilla Hauck - July 2 - 2:00 am

  Just love it! My husband and I leased it two years ago, and now we are going to purchase it, because we want to keep it.