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 SUV - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By jba1185 - January 13 - 10:00 am

  Toyota did a great job of building this SUV. My 17 year old son is the "primamy" driver of this and it is still in great condition. If he hasent destroyed it by now I really dont think anyone can. I would highly recomend to anyone that wants a comfortabe ride on short or long drives.

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  Not your favorite toy. Beware!! - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By redmanct - January 10 - 3:46 am

  Purchase the suv with 69,000 miles. My wife had been on me about one so I got it for her. First the rear window motor went out. The reason I purchased it Edmunds had such good ratings and its a Toyota. Now at 82,000 miles my transmission went out while my wife were driving it. (@ 82,000 miles) I will never buy another Toyota. Very disappointed.

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  Lovin my Toyota Sequoia - 2006 Toyota Sequoia
  By Sherry Parker - January 10 - 3:43 am

  I pick up and deliver dogs in my Toyota Sequoia for my dog grooming business and it has makes my job much more fun and easier..it is easy to get the animals in and out with the 3rd row seats removed and the second bench seat made down--however, I do wish that the second bench seat could be locked while in the fold down mode--I have had the seat fall during a curve or sudden stop and it could be dangerous if a small dog happened to be in its way. I tuck a blanket around the seat securly and that does help hold it up but it would be better if it locked in position.

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  Enjoying my car - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By LMari - January 7 - 5:50 pm

  Love the ride. Husband 65" likes it better than his Surburban. Although he hits the button to open the rear window w/his knee. Ive had it aligned three times because of a pull to the right. I couldnt take my hands off the wheel or Id be in the other lane. The fourth time I went to another Tire Kingdom and it seems to be fixed. Gas mileage isnt the best 14.5 in the city and 18 hwy. I love sitting high on the road and I never thought Id be a SUV person but I enjoy the Sequoia. I put wedged small mirrors on my side mirrors and after getting used to them I dont cut many people off! Keyless entry pads are stiff and stubborn. Ive had them replaced once and its time again.

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  Toyota Sequoia - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By TLNBJS - December 31 - 2:00 am

  Traded my Chevy Suburban for this Sequoia. The only thing I miss is the power of the 5.7L engine. Other than that, this is superior machine. Fit and finish is outstanding. I have not experienced any of the problems I read about prior to my purchase. (i.e. the sulphur smell, brake problems etc) The brakes on this vehicle are far superior to my 95 Suburban. Vehicle feels very spacious inside and easily fits 8 people. Storage space behind the 3rd row seat is adequate.

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  Awesome Car/Truck - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By onrus - December 31 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle handles very well and is very comfortable to drive and ride. Its been on several long trips already and everyone has totally enjoyed it. I fell very safe in this vehicle since it sits up high enough to see ahead of me and its HUGE....

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  Sequoia - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By jane - December 30 - 10:00 am

  I love it. The only problem I see is the multiple holders in the headliner area in the model that doesnt have a moon roof. Ther should be a tv compartment.

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  Positive first impression - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By Flying Fish - December 26 - 6:53 pm

  Very pleased with the first month of ownership of the new Sequoia. Traded 2nd of two Navigators owned for improved reliability and equal towing capacity. Early highway mileage is 22mph @ 65 mph; overall highway and around town averaging 17mpg on regular gas. Cargo area same size as Navigator. I purchased the Limited edition and added running lights, power rear door,backup camera. The Platinum edition requires 20 in. low profile tires which ride harder and are more difficult to balance. Nav system was too far away to safely use while driving and I have my own Nuvi I like better. With the Limited you lose memory seats. Toyota needs to unbundle 18 inch wheels, memory seats, nav, offer options.

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  Went to buy a van - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
  By toyo luver - December 21 - 4:00 am

  I went to buy a van and almost did, till I drove the Sequoia. I felt just like I did when I was 16 and bought my 1st Toyota, a 1977 Celica. Still the best IÂ’ve ever owned, brand new off showroom floor. Wife and I were going to buy a van my kids insisted we drive a Sequoia before we made our mind up. The van was it until I hit the gas pedal and felt the smooth acceleration and was very impressed when I looked at the speedometer and saw I was way past speed limit. Why buy a Lexus.

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  Sublime - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Charlie - December 18 - 11:06 pm

  The Sequoia is very comfortable to travel in, has loads of room, but what really sold me were the comfortable reclining 3rd row seats. BTW, the seats in the Sequoia are not quite as short as most in the Toyota line. Gas mileage is not great - 15-19 mpg, but I cant pull a boat with an Accord. The V8 engine is a real jewel & smooth as butter, but does lack a little torque - not recommended for towing in the mountains - a fine SUV!