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 Buy - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Scott Carbaugh - June 23 - 7:40 pm

  This is one of the best vehicles Ive ever owned. Smooth ride, powerful and unbelievably reliable. Most comfortable seats of any car Ive owned. We have 140,000 miles on it now and runs like the day we bought it in 2003. Sound system still sounds great. Only problems have been fuel gauge that sometimes doesnt work and VSC lights come on sometimes. Would like if second row was removable.

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  Unexpected Gonverner on the Vehichle - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By kimblecathy - June 20 - 11:46 am

  I thought I thoroughly researched this Sequioa...Not !!! My car does not go beyond 96MPH. I complained to the dealership . I called Toyota who stated there was a governor on the car. I find this disgraceful !!! The top speed should be as seen on the speedometer. How can they get away with this. I will file a consumer complaint for material misrepresentation. I hate car manufactures and now this confirms their dishonesty. What else is Toyota hiding?

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  Sequoia - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By momof5 - June 13 - 10:00 am

  It drives smoothly and quietly, the windshield wipers were a bit noisey which surprised us and the seat that has to be raised for the third row can be cumbersome as well as heavy at times; I would have liked it if the air vents were more directional but the rear air is great and there is plenty of room for a family of seven.

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  Great SUV, uses gas faster than can pump - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By csl - June 13 - 10:00 am

  Bought a Sequoia day before yesterday and love it. Itll work great to drive to my 2nd job to pay for the gas - it sucks gas faster than I can pump! Seriously, we knew that would happen - this is larger than our Jeep GC so we knew mileage would be lousy. Size is great, but 8th person needs to be a kid. Middle row has a lot of room, and 3rd row isnt bad either. No complaints about interior/exterior. Bottom line, at 36+ hours of ownership, would recommend it.

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  2002 Sequoia Review - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By jay - June 11 - 9:36 am

  Ive had mine about a year & have zero complaints. I bought it with 100K miles from a dealer who has sold me a number of Toyotas & I would not buy anything else. It is a used vehicle & friends comment that it looks very well kept. It drives great, visibility is great, never had any problems. gas mileage is not so good, but if you want great gas mileage, buy something else. If you want comfort & a reliable family SUV that protects you, you need to drive it!

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  Ride in style - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By J C Renger - June 11 - 5:33 am

  My Sequoia is used for personal and business driving. People are always asking what vehicle is this, how do I like it, how is my fuel economy. I let them know it is a Toyota Sequoia, I love it, and I have 2 wheel drive, get 15-16 in town, 18-19 on the road. When I tell them it is a 2001, they cannot believe it. I pride myself on this vehicle and maintain this vehicle through the Toyota dealership. I have attended several business meetings and the majority want to ride in the Sequoia when we travel to restauarants or other areas. No doubt in my mind, this is the vehicle to own, even if it is a bit pricey. It is worth it !

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  absolutley da best - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
  By marye13 - May 30 - 6:50 am

  this is the 5th toyota for our family. they are the most reliable and all around thumbs up. we have had old landcruisers,and I drove a celica for 17 years and had almost 300,000 miles on it and still sold it for 300.00 more than i bought it for. As long as you do the normal maintance, toyota will keep on going. I will not have another vehicle in our drive way! well worth the money in the long run!!!

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  The Sequoia Stands Tall - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By GreggD - May 24 - 10:00 am

  Just recently purchased this Toyota and am very impressed. Almost silent in its operation. Handles bumps and bad roads (common in Texas) with aplomb. You need to read the owners manual carefully because there are features and limitations on this vehicle that cannot be covered in dealer delivery speech. This car is built in Indiana. How come the other Big Three cannot build a vehicle of this quality? Gas mileage is pretty good for an SUV but you will get more mileage by using a synthetic oil (like Mobil 1) and a K&N air filter. Improves performance, mileage, and wont harm the vehicle in any way to my knowledge.

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  New to Me - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By new owner - May 23 - 9:06 am

  Just bought this the end of Sept. 07 with 48K on it. It now has 52.5k. We are a family of 5. We liked all the bells and whistles on this model because it had everything that the Limited had minus the heated seats. We own a 96 Tahoe, and just got rid of an 01 Odyssey minivan, and this takes the vans place. We gave up fuel mileage (22 vs. 18 in the Sequoia) and ride comfort. The Toyota definitely rides rougher than the Tahoe, but it gets better mileage and we love all the room/extra seats. We have had one mechanical issue, we had to replace the oil pressure sending unit. My wife is dissapointed that the rubber cup holder "fingers" have been torn/worn prematurely.

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  Tarnished Quality Reputation - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By cahrensntx - May 22 - 8:13 am

  I value quality and reliability above all else, price, feature, comfort etc. Both consumer data and experience convinced me Toyota is the best here. So it is with high expecatations for a long life vehicle I bought my 3rd Toyota, this Sequoia. After 5 yrs of dealer only scheduled maintenance and 100K mi, I am very, very disappointed. In reverse chronological order: transmission failed 100K, brakes replaced 5 times (even with total system replacement at 60K), fuel gauge failed 80K, dashboard ignition key receiver failed 70K, dashboard drive gear LED out 70k, traction control oversensitive and grinds 50k. Did not meet expectations of Toyota quality.