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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  The Ultimate Chickenmobile - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By chickenwizard - July 6 - 2:00 am

  2002 model year. A fun truck to drive, especially on the highway. Surprisingly quiet for a huge vehicle. Plenty of space (roomier than the Land Cruiser). Comfortable ride. Slight growl on the motor but powerful. Good acceleration. Excellent braking. Decent size storage even with the 3rd row. Strong and quick cooling A/C.

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  Extensive Frame Rot! - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By mcfly3 - July 4 - 2:51 am

  On December 28, 2011, I brought my 2001, Toyota Sequoia in to be serviced for rear brakes and to get the oil changed. My certified mechanic called me at home and strongly suggested that I come in to see what he discovered while my vehicle was up on the lift. So I stopped in to take a look. He showed me extensive rust holes in the middle of the frame welds on both the passenger and drivers side. He also pointed out that the rear differential case has severe rust damage. He strongly urged me to stop driving the vehicle and stated that it is unsafe in its present condition and that he has never seen such extensive frame rust damage on a vehicle this well taken care of. The drive train, outer body, and interior are in mint condition. I also have always made it a point to power wash the salt (calcium chloride) off the under carriage after driving in the Northeast after snow or ice storms, when salt is used on our roads. I contacted my local Toyota dealership and they gave me the phone number to Toyota Headquarters. The end result was, they were sorry to hear that I had a rotted out frame and suggested that I get rid of the vehicle because there is currently no recall for the Sequoias. Although, after going online at the Toyota forum I found out that theyre are over 300 consumers with the same type of issue with their Sequoia frames in our state, so I do not stand alone. I am floored that a company like Toyota, that prides itself in being committed to safety does not care and will not take ownership when they knowingly used cheap Japanese steel to build these faulty frames. I currently have three young children and this is my primary vehicle. I cannot afford to throw $8 K away (Kelly Blue Book) on this vehicle. BUYER BEWARE!!!

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  Sequoia Story - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By trdsc2 - July 4 - 2:00 am

  Bought 2002 Jade Green Ltd. 4x4 two weeks ago. I am reasonably satisfied with the vehicle (since I did a lot of research before hand and there have been few surprises), but I would have to say that the quality of the interior leather, carpeting and plastics have a more "industrial" quality than what I have come to expect from Toyota. (this is my 7th) It is quiet for a vehicle of this size, has very little wind noise at cruising speed, feels stable on the road (except when encountering strong wind) and is very roomy inside.

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  Sequoia - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By CKMJ - July 4 - 2:00 am

  Excellent vehicle. The safety features on the Limited cannot compare to its competition. Tether Strap hooks in 5 seating positions, LATCH car seat equipped and side-impact airbags for front seat passengers. I cant say one negative thing about this SUV. I will buy another one when its time to give this one up.

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  Sequoia - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By cougar - June 24 - 10:00 am

  After owning a 1998 Expedition for the last four years we were ready to look into another large SUV. Because we have already owned Toyotas in the past and were always very pleased with their reliability, we decided to research the Sequoia. The handling of the Sequoia was far superior to that of the Expedition and also the acceleration of the Sequoia was far superior.

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  Mr Yao - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Mike Yao - June 24 - 10:00 am

  Steel wheel design not enough pretty; Power of engine need a little more boost up such as 5.0 or 5.5 liter engine will performance better. Color of vehicle not enough for selection in Limited edition model.

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  Nothing Better - 2006 Toyota Sequoia
  By LoveMySequoia!! - June 23 - 4:20 am

  We bought this as a replacement to our Ford Explorer. After 2 lemons from Ford will never go back! This vehicle is the best value in a large SUV. Smooth, quiet ride, good visibility and plenty of power if using it as a family vehicle. The headrest DVD players are a must if you have 2 children or more. With the wireless headphones and the pleasure of driving this vehicle, long trips are a dream. We researched, drove and compared all full sized SUVs and not only thought this was the best vehicle, but also got the best price. It was worth giving up the extra size from the Suburban.

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  toyota sequoia 2003 - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By armando bonilla - June 10 - 3:42 pm

  I have my Toyota sequoia 2003 with 200k miles. running like a champion, no big problem, only regular maintenance. oil change, break and rotor, I did change the pinion rack. at 185k, front shock at 170k, o2 sensor at 175.. everything is normal with car with this miles 200k, now I need to replace some wheel bearing.. but I think the engine is running excellent. in the blizzard in 2015 in northen Virginia was jumping on the snow like a deer.. I

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  jim in tucson - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By jimmoore50 - June 5 - 10:00 am

  Great road vehicle. Almost unflappable on the highway no matter the conditions. Strong engine makes long hills a breeze. A little slow off the line. Great leg room in front and second row. Easy to fold second and third row seats. Retractable rear window lets hot air out fast. Auto feature on front windows great. Great ventilation system. Quiet moonroof when open. Very quiet on the road. Above 75 mph is unbelievably quiet for this size vehicle. Okay gas mileage. Traction control will take the vehicle anywhere in 4 wheel and almost anywhere in 2 wheel. Easy to use and accurate cruise control. Incredible cup holders.

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  Greatest thing on wheels - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By NG - May 31 - 10:00 am

  I got rid of a Lincoln Navigator to get this hunk of a SUV. If it were a man I would marry it.