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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  What a Turkey - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By RobMcP - January 2 - 10:00 am

  Toyota doesnt know how to build trucks or take care of customers. 4WD broke first time I used 4WLow in deep snow (in my driveway). Dealer accused me of abuse (had to be because Toyotas dont break...unbelievable arrogance). Got it resolved (had to go to another dealer who took mercy on me) but Toyota help center was no help at all. Took 2 months to resolve and repair. It also eats brakes (we drive VERY conservatively) and the windshield has cracked twice for no apparent reason. Clicking noise of fuel injectors when cold. Overall, a total turkey. If you want to buy a full-sized SUV buy American. Lesson learned.

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  Finally, an SUV we can count on - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Bob in Warrenton - December 25 - 10:00 am

  Traded unreliable Â’98 Mercedes ML320 on the Sequoia. Nimble for its size. Great steering feel except at high speeds or heavy loads, where its a bit too light. Smooth, controlled ride. Huge, quiet interior. 3rd row seat is comfortable. Excellent build quality, but interior look is plain. Perfect paint job. We get 16 mpg; regular gas is fine. Transmission shifts are jerky before it warms up, and when downshifting in corners. Middle seats fold, but cant be removed. Stereo is just OK. Off road its good; if you turn off VSC. Nice driving position, but the front seats become uncomfortable after 2-3 hours due to poor lower back support.

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  This is the SUV of Choice - 2006 Toyota Sequoia
  By RVJ - December 16 - 4:13 pm

  I am totally in love with this vehicle. For a large SUV, it handles the road perfectly. I ride in safety and comfort. I am happy that I decided to buy this vehicle and have no regrets.

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  Seating Design - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By GRF493 - December 15 - 10:13 pm

  The power option for folding the third row seats is GREAT! Now, if Toyota can just apply that same option to the second row seats, it would be outstanding. Having three large dogs, coupled with a knee injury, it makes adjusting the second row seats difficult. The power option would be a huge help in this arena. Think disabled, we rarely do, until we ourselves are in that situation.

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  Needed Improvements for this Day & Age - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By GRF493 - December 10 - 8:16 pm

  Overall, its been a good vehicle. While most people are aware of what theyre buying and all of the features that go with the vehicle, at the time of purchase, some "necessities" become apparent after your ownership experience gains tenure.

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  2008 Toy - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By A Real SUV!!! - December 4 - 1:23 am

  Love this truck, bought it 500 miles ago. I had a Ford expedition that I got rid of when gas hit almost $5.00 a gallon. I went to a Cherokee sport which was just as bad, then I went to 2009 Toyota matrix, which was beautiful on gas, but I was very unhappy with the limited space. 10 months later I traded in the matrix for the sequoia (best investment I made!). I dont care if gas hits $10.00 a gallon - its worth it & if you put super you can get about 14 miles a gallon in the city.

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  LUV my SUV - 2006 Toyota Sequoia
  By M. Santiago SR - December 1 - 8:06 am

  As a newbee to SUVs I absolutely love my Sequoia. Gas mileage isnt as bad as you would think for a V8, but if you drive it like a racecar your miles per gallon will decrease big time. The only thing I wish they did better was the dash and console. Its identical to that of the Tundra and quite honestly not the most elegant or fun to look at. I guess if you can live with that or without, then this is a great ride. Smooth on the road, power when you need it and quite elegant for the price range. Im definitely hooked and look forward to the next Sequoia model.

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  MY SEQUOIA - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By vfclaytor - December 1 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I have really enjoyed the Sequoia. It is fun to drive and the kids love the space. Its great for vacations on the road as well as getting around town. I dont have anything bad to say about the Sequoia.

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  Wicked Ride! - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By WickedChick - November 30 - 10:00 am

  I just love this SUV. There is no other vehicle like it on the road for ease and fun of driving. It is perfect for the carpool, especially with the add-on DVD/TV Console. After 35000 miles it rides like a dream. We have only had to change the oil!!!! The cargo area is easy to manipulate and my 5 year old son can move the 3rd row seats. After years of Toyota(MR2 and 4-runner) and Jeep(Cherokee Limited) ownership - Toyota Sequoia RULES!

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  very reliable family on the go SUV - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By ntchanda - November 27 - 6:33 am

  I drive more than most Moms I know, and this car has been fabulous in terms of reliability-I had one minor problem with the CD player freezing during the winter but that was worked out. Other than that, it has NEVER broken down, and I have over 110K on the car that is just over 4 years old. Design problems they could fix are that the doors are so heavy they dont stay open on their own (so getting younger children out can be challenging) and they could streamline the overall design so its not so bulky. Those are my only two negative comments.