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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  Still lovin it!!! - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By rwcarr - October 19 - 2:00 am

  Since the first test drive, Ive been in love with this vehicle. I love the fact that it drives as easily as a car, but gives you the feel of total safety.

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  Enjoy the 2003 Sequoia - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By esommerton - October 14 - 10:00 am

  The 2003 Sequoia is fun and luxurious. This responsive SUV provides a quality ride, plenty of room and features a very responsive 4.7L motor. The exterior remains elegant while newer SUVs get boxier. We looked at other SUVs only to find the interiors are evolving into a less-than-plush look — featuring many hard lines and brushed steal versus the warm feel of the Sequoia.

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  its smooth - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By treuer - October 9 - 8:53 pm

  took this vehichle to Disney. great comfort, great ride, 21mph on highway. Was able to fit 2 families of 4 comfortably when visiting friends on the way, ample pickup. less bumps than other SUVs. 12k miles and no problems.

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  OH What a Failing - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
  By ronc - October 8 - 7:30 pm

  Got rid of a Trailblazer. Picked the Sequoia for Toyota reliability. Almost immediately observed a problem with oil pressure. Dealer had no clue ("never seen that before"). Went to arbitration, corporate ultimately claimed - ready for this?- "they all do that." Aside from hoping the engine doesnt seize, its a nice driving vehicle, well suited to its purpose. I want to get rid of it, though. Toyotas are good if you get a good one. If you get a bad one, be advised youre on your own.

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  Smooth as silk - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
  By SK - October 4 - 1:33 am

  I own an 03 SR5 Rwd, and the 05 is my 2nd Sequoia for a reason. I love the quality of the vehicle. Its super safe (saved me OTHER drivers mistakes on a number of occasions), and is the surprisingly agile! The whole no chime for lights on issue is alleviated by the fact that: a. you can turn your lights off by pressing the lock button on the keyless keyfob twice (light had to have been on while driving; if you turn the lights on after the car is off, it will stay on), and b. the lights turn off automatically under the same circumstances if the truck is off and the door has been closed. I think the timer is at about 30 seconds.

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  08 sequoia - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By mr08SEQUOIA - September 28 - 2:36 pm

  I purchased the 2008 Platinum Sequoia for family and weekend road trips. I test drove the Escalade ESV, Suburban, and Expedition XL. I chose the Sequoia with very little deliberation. The ride is smooth and the options are top rate. I love the interior space, the only two complaints I have are the lack of chrome accents for a model labeled platinum and the navigation and radio system. The resolution on the nav system is poor and the text limitation on the radio is just ridiculous for a product from Toyota. I know the profit margins had to be huge, because they did not invest a lot of money to impress customers or be competitive with $150 Nav systems from Best Buy.

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  Nice vehicle - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
  By Momma3 - September 27 - 3:46 am

  I really enjoy driving this vehicle. It handles nicely and has ample cargo room. Back seats fold up easily for addl cargo room. Gas mileage is poor, but I expected that when I bought it. Great car for 3 kids who can climb in the back and buckle themselves in. Comfort is so so. We also own a Chevy Suburban and take that on road trips due to more comfortable seats and additional leg room. Placement of DVD player is poor - located inside storage compartment between front driver and passenger seats. Must pull over to put in new movie if alone in front seat. Placement of seat warmer switches poor. They get turned on accidently all the time. Dash controls are designed well.

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  boring - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By roadrunner - September 24 - 10:00 am

  The Sequoia is big and boring. Front seat armrests are too small to be of any value. Daytime running lights cannot be shut off. Climate control system has a mind of its own. The owners manual has you consult your local Toyota dealer to change many preprogrammed electronic features.

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  Second Sequoia - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By Steve - September 15 - 1:37 pm

  Great vehicle. This is second one for us. We buy them with 60-70k miles. As long as they are local trade ins with clean car fax and documented service history I have no qualms about driving them to 200k miles and expect few repairs. Fuel economy is only downside,

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  My truck - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By Mrs, Magnolia - September 1 - 6:40 am

  Dependable, and fun to drive either in town or across country, I love my truck. Accommodates all the kids and family, for myself or clients when showing houses. And the feeling of a safe & secure ride.