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 Truck! - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
By execellent truck - July 28 - 3:36 pmI have owned many different SUVs over the years, this is without a doubt the best Ive ever owned. I had a Chev Blazer, Chev Tahoa, Ford Explorer, Ford Expedition and Jeep. Nothing compares to the quality of the truck. I have not had any problems in 35,000 miles. I would definitely recommend the SUV to anyone needing this type of vehicle.
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Sequoia - Its not just a tree anymore! - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
By david - July 24 - 6:06 pmOur Sequoia has over 90k miles, and there have been 2 problems: the oxygen sensor went out ($170), back window motor went out (dealer fixed). Phenomenal build quality, super quiet except some wind noise (to be expected with large suv). High quality leather. Large sunroof.
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Sequia is Top SUV - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
By ChasMichael - July 22 - 7:36 pmI never regretted getting rid of my unreliable Mistubishi Montero. I have had no problems out of my Toyota Sequia. I highly recommend this SUV for its reliablity, drive, handling, and style. Ask for Z she will work a great deal for you at Toyota of Bowie. Tell her Charles Johnson a happy customer sent you. The guy that gave her the redskin tickets for working such a great deal for him by finding the exact SUV (color & options) that he wanted.
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Great for travel and always reliable - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
By AJC - July 22 - 4:26 pmThis is a nice ride even on rough roads. The 4WD allows me to get in and out of just about anywhere. Great for travel and always reliable. I owned a land rover before this and I only miss the heated front windshield. This has more plastic than my 06 which makes the interior look cheep for a SUV of this price. The seats in my 06 are more comfortable for a small person...especially on the passengers side.
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Timeless Gem - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
By Adam - July 18 - 3:41 amPurchased my 2004 Sequoia in 2006 with 25k miles. Maintained over the years inside and out per dealer specs. 265k miles currently and still runs and looks like new! No major repairs or replacements. Consistently complimented by friends, strangers and dealer service techs on its current overall condition. Best and most reliable vehicle Ive ever owned. Super dissatisfied with my prior vehicles which included Volvo, Jaguar, and Lincoln. Toyota/Lexus family (my wife drives a Lexus GX) for life!
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Our Second Sequoia - 2006 Toyota Sequoia
By Linda Perkins - July 13 - 7:30 pmThis is the second Sequoia Limited we have purchased. The Sequoia is the first SUV we have ever had and absolutely the best vehicle we have ever owned. The interior is outstanding, more like a car and not a truck. The third seat is comfortable for an average size adult. I rode in this seat from Ohio to Tenn without a complaint. We tell everyone that asks how much we love our Sequoia and even say it to each other while we are traveling. Our son loved ours so much that he even bought one for himself to accommodate his growing family. We cant say enough good things about the Sequoia Limited.
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AWSOME BEST EVER!!! - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
By r1ck - July 8 - 2:00 amLove it. Lots of room, great power, easy to drive. Never a problem..Snow, rain or shine, this SUV does it all. If you are looking for a true SUV for looks, ride comfort, realibility, and a overall SUV this is the one.
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Ooh what a feeling - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
By TK10 - July 3 - 10:00 amGreat Ride! I love a smooth riding Toyo
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Enough of Ford - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
By L Romaine - July 2 - 8:10 pmAfter 15 years of Fords I love my new Toyota Sequoia it has plenty of room, plenty of power and is a joy to drive.
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Could get more for your money - 2010 Toyota Sequoia
By Ben Makowski - June 30 - 2:16 pmI have owned many new cars and feel I could offer a solid review on this Toyota. Cheap plastic everywhere, but I thought the industry standard of Toyota quality would prevail, until recently. NO problems to date but am disappointed with how cheaply this $60,000.00 SUV is put together, thankfully i do not have a record of keeping vehicles beyond 2 years and am know realizing come trade time is when i will pay.
