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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  Fantastic On & Off Road - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Eagle1 - February 5 - 10:00 am

  I have driven this SUV in deep silt and mud and on steep 4x4 trails and have found it to be very stable and lots of fun. I think that this is the best offroad perfomance I have ever seen in a production SUV. It is even better than my customized Ford truck. I also use my Sequoia to drive clients and most of them remark about how smooth the ride is and how quiet the Sequoia is on the highway. I love my Sequoia and I love driving it even on long trips. The cargo room and versitility of seating arrangments comes in very handy. The Sequoia is my favorite drive of all time.

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  Awesome - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By dags2517 - February 2 - 6:26 pm

  Just purchased this vehicle. All I can say is awesome! This SUV is perfect for a large family. We can fit three car seats in the middle bench seat(which is the main reason for purchase). Fit double stroller in back and plenty of room for anything extra. Drive is smooth and seats are comfortable. DVD system is great for the kids. Dashboard setup is awesome and very stylish. Finally the Sequoia has fold down third row. This vehicle as something for everyone.

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  Pleasure to Drive - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By Tim Hawkins - January 29 - 4:46 pm

  We wanted a SUV that we could take mor than just our family with to the lake. The 2004 Sequoia we have has been a pleasure to drive and own.

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  Excelllence - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By Chuck - January 27 - 9:36 am

  Wonderful car. We might end up with two in the garage. Big and spacious for my four kids. My wife said the other day she is afraid to step on full throttle because it seems it might go on its rear wheels; its fast. Its quiet, visibility is great, and very comfortable to drive, even long distances. Ive never driven all the way from Phoenix to L.A. without my wife helping part of the way, but last June, I did, both to and from. Havent had any problems so far, however, I have a small rattle on the moon-roof which disappears when I go to the dealership. Dont keep your eyes on the gas-gauge though, you might be disappointed, but I expected it when I bought the car. All in all, I love it.

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  I love my Sequoia. - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Chris - January 25 - 1:53 am

  I have enjoyed owning my Sequoia. I have had it for six years. The only problem I have ever had with it is the rear window not going down. I really dont use it much so to me it is no big deal. It is not great on gas, yet I like everything else about it. It handles like no other vehicle. It hugs the road if you really drive it and respect it like it is big and heavy nothing compares to it.

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  Great car - 2007 Toyota Sequoia
  By mrsanky - January 23 - 11:56 am

  This car has everything, a little rough on off road, but would not change a thing.

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  WOW! Amazing Vehicle - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By nissa - January 18 - 2:00 am

  This is my first SUV, so I took my time to research all the possibilities. In my search for a quality vehicle, the Sequoia was several notches above the rest. I would suggest the Sequoia anyday if you could afford it! But it is well worth the money.

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  Best Truck Ever 2018 Sequioa Limited - 2018 Toyota Sequoia
  By W Joyce - January 17 - 11:16 am

  Almost 5,000 miles not one problem. Gas is a little better than my 2013 Sequioa. Only one problem with my 2013 and 80,000 miles the door hinge got broken when a Hugh gust of wind hit the door. Toyota should make a heavy duty hinge. Back to the 2018 I like the design and the handling, preformance and quality. I had 6 Chevy Suburbans that fell apart after 50,000 miles. I get 17 MPG Suburban driving and approx 18 MPG HWY. I did get 20+ on one tank HWY driving must have been the wind pushing me. All in All love my truck.

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  Greatest SUV,tried all noother as good - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By dsj - January 13 - 10:00 am

  The Sequoia 4WD Limited is an awesome SUV. It drives like a car. Handles like a car and has unbeleivable horsepower. Everytime you look down you are going 90. Cruise control is a good thing. The ONLY complaint is the blind spot in the drivers mirror. Other than that it is just the greatest. We test drove all the SUVs VW toureg, Posrche cayenne, Chevrolet tahoe & suburban. Money was not an issue comfort, horsepower and room were. And the best thing is it IS USA made, USA parts & USA manufactured.

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  Abbys Review - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By meikasmom - January 13 - 10:00 am

  I have two young children and used to own a 1999 Tahoe. After my Husband died in August 2003 I decided to trade in that truck for the Sequoia. It is a beautiful and comfortable ride. It is large yet it is just right for my femininity. I put rims on it and spoiled it out a little. It is truly an eye catcher.