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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  Dynamic Cruise is a bust - 2016 Toyota Sequoia
  By Jeff - November 18 - 9:37 pm

  I have a 2011 Chrysler 300 and I absolutely LOVE my adaptive (radar based) cruise control. It was a must when getting my wifes new SUV. But the laser version in this Toyota frequently refuses to engage, drops out randomly (driving into the sun) or simply continues to drive almost right into the back of the car ahead regardless of follow distance. Nothing like the "it just works and works GREAT" of my Chrysler. I also dont like the info-tainment logic. It is difficult to navigate and I dislike that the side detection is just a silent light in your mirror. On my Chrysler when I turn on the blinker, it audibly beeps at me if it detects. For the most part, the Sequoia is ok, but Im just constantly annoyed with how much worse it is on some things and it cost nearly double a 5 year older car...

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  unresolved problems - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By smily22771 - November 18 - 10:00 am

  The folks at Toyota should wear masks. Theyre robbing people on this truck. The interior is all plastic and cheap looking, Ive already had several problems with the roof/headliner area that are still not fixed, the climate control system has a mind of its own and lastly THE CUSTOMER SERVICE FROM THE DEALER UP TO THE CORPORATE OFFICE IS ABOMINABLE. Do yourself a favor and spend your money more wisely than I did.

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  Almost Great SUV - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Florida SR-5 - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I was excited about my first Toyota. I drive mostly highway miles. It had a pull to the right and my arm would be fatigued after trips over 15 mins keeping it straight. Many trips to the dealer later no fix. At the Lemon Law hearing the mech. expert who drove it agreed, but the other two who didnt, sided against us. I was shocked and stuck with it. Later I took it for a routine alignment at a different dealer and explain my past problems and they fixed it just like that. My ratings are based on it pre-fix, as Toyota assured me there was nothing wrong it then.Hope you dont have a problem because Toyota has your money for life.

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  Good Mileage? - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By TwoToyotas - November 10 - 10:00 am

  I love this SUV. Past expierience was a Surbuban but never felt safe traveling too far from dealers service department. One item this car needs is memory seats and mirrors. I read several users getting 15 plus Miles per gallon?? On board computer is reporing no better than 14.2. Does everyone only go downhill? Alos own a Tundra.....the rocketship of trucks!

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  For a full size SUV its features are hard to beat - 2011 Toyota Sequoia
  By leslie0717 - November 8 - 9:39 am

  Our first Sequoia after 12 years with 2 expeditions. Very pleased so far. Believe the platinum is way overpriced when you compare the few extra options you get. We bought a limited with options of navigation and woodgrain interior on the dash ("molded dash applique"). Have to have the fold flat 3rd row, so that excludes GM, and this time decided to spend a little more to get a better quality interior (one of only a few complaints we had with the expedition). Hoping to have better resale value as well. We have been very pleased with the luxury feel of the interior and smooth ride. We did buy our LTD in another state and had it shipped. LTDs are hard to find/nonexistent in some areas.

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  Came from a Tahoe - 2010 Toyota Sequoia
  By Brad - November 5 - 11:20 pm

  We traded in our 02 Z71 Tahoe for this Sequoia and are happy we did. We have more room and the power fold down 3rd row. Being 63" it is a bit more difficult to get in as the seats are situated higher, but it is comfortable, drives nicely and so far works well for our family travel needs.

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  Do your homework before you buy - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By kaylavalet - November 5 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle has been a big disappointment. I have owned several Toyotas in the past and they have been great. This probably explains all of the high ratings for the Sequoia. Based on Toyotas reputation, I think this vehicle gets greatly overrated. Where do I start? With the constant clacking noise. I have heard or read this described as piston slap, valves, etc.... Dealer is in serious denial. Claims there is no problem. Oil sensor out. Computer diagnostic failure, etc....

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  The best. I should know. - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By TommyBright - November 4 - 10:00 am

  Retired pro cycle racer, driven everything but a Lamburger-Weenie in 800,000 accident-free miles. Weve bought 4 more Toyotas since my first went 407,000 miles (my new Chevy was junky), but we are astounded how perfect this one is: Our finest, tightest, best-laid-out car ever. Quieter at 70 than a new Eldo. Just finished a 1,000-miler with 4 aboard. Seats, cupholders, instruments just right, kept us alert for the word and encyclopedia games that helped the miles roll past. Now, Burbans and Expos are just wannabes. I believe Toyota engineers are respected and paid attention to --- nowhere have we found slapdash design or build compromises.

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  Effortless Suv - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By jason973 - November 3 - 3:56 pm

  After researching every large SUV on the market, I found myself the owner of a Sequoia. I took a 300 mile trip to Cape Cod the following day. This truck drives great. It has power to get around anything. There is no waiting for the passing gear. It really handled great. I made record time, and got a reasonable 17 MPG. I could see easily getting 19 keeping it at 70-75. The interior is huge. I had plenty of luggage room even with the kids seats in the second row. The front seats are nice (mine adjust up and down). I dread the idea of the novelty of this truck wearing off.

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  What a vehicle! - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Jpooleii - October 22 - 2:00 am

  I could not be happier with my Sequoia purchase. To date I have not had a single problem with it and do not expect to. I think compared to the other SUVs on the market, the gas mileage is great.