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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I made a good choice - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
By dmab63 - June 12 - 2:00 amLarge vehicle, but very easy to handle. The ride is comfortable. The back seating has plenty of room and I have heard nothing but good remarks from all who have riden in the back, including myself.
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Sequoia review - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
By mariakal - June 12 - 2:00 amExcellent car for the money...comfortable drive...could use a little better pickup but moves smooth and easy...
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big box - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
By scoob - June 5 - 2:00 amI was looking for size and reliability above all else. It may give up some towing capacity to the Chevy, but the overall design and quality won me over. The ride is quite smooth and silent. I have one quibble with a click in the dash which sounds after any start up after being parked. the dealer said it was the ABS switch resetting and that this was normal. Im getting 15.3mpg in mixed driving according to the trip computer. And, it swallows regular gas rather than premium required by more than a few of its European competitors. Big discounts are fairly prevalent on this truck. Shop around for a loss leader!
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Just my thoughts - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
By neffster - June 4 - 1:23 amWhere are the memory seats and mirrors??? Just one step away from perfection...
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LOVE LOVE LOVE my truck....but.... - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
By Wentz Family - June 2 - 7:00 amI have owned my 2002 sequoia now for 4 years and have only replaced tires. It is an amazing vehicle. When my husband and I were looking, a big issue with us is comfort. We are both tall and have small children and didnt want them kicking us every time drove in it. Unfortunately at this time my kids are getting a little big and we are looking to down size. But if you are looking for a reliable roomy SUV you cant go wrong with this sequoia.
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Take the Whole Family for a Ride - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
By LuvMySUV - May 29 - 10:00 amPrevious owner of a 95 Isuzu Rodeo from 95 to 98, back to a car, back to a real SUV. My Toyota Sequoia seats all of my shopping buddies and accomodates the family on trips to the South with comfort. Its ride is oh so smoooooth! Mileage isnt great, but I knew that prior to purchase. Purchased 12/2001, drove from Chicago to Atlanta New Years weekend. No drama, no backaches or body aches.
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2006 Sequioa - 2006 Toyota Sequoia
By pam - May 28 - 5:50 amthis is our second Sequoia..we love it. It is smaller built than our 2002 model, but the gas mileage is a little better. We are averaging 16-17mpg. It is fun to drive and we are Toyota fans. We have a Tacoma also, and drove a 4 Runner for 16 years, and all 4 of our children drove it as they each turned 16.
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Works for me - 2007 Toyota Sequoia
By Grouse - May 28 - 2:53 amIve only had this vehicle for 2000 miles but so far I am pleased. It rides a little tougher than Id hoped (on a smooth road its great but where are those) but it doesnt jar your teeth loose and its taut and quiet. The 08 fixed all my gripes about this model except the price, I couldnt justify another 25K for fold down seats and that wonderful 5.7L in the 08. Drive 65 for 500 mi, youll be surprised (pleasantly). Having a trained ear, the JBL is simply not worth the money to me, but for R&R Im sure its just fine.
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Bigger but not Better - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
By 3lakeswi - May 26 - 2:06 pmThe Toyota is far bigger than any before it, but is by no means better. A goofy and unavoidable traction control system that actually governs the engine, exterior pieces that mysteriously disappear, and other problems plague our Sequoia. The engine and driveline (excluding the traction control) deliver good power and reliability with decent mileage. The interior styling is blah and the newness wears off of this vehicle rapidly.
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The Swiss Army Knive of SUVs - 2006 Toyota Sequoia
By Dan in Texas - May 23 - 2:53 amThis is the second Sequoia I have owned, and I could not be more pleased. My first one had 135,000 miles on it, looked and drove like new when traded. I now have 75,000 miles on the 2006, and have NEVER had a service call for any reason. I am meticulous about care and maintenance, but zero issues in 200,000 miles says it all. This one has the captains chairs in the back and DVD, which are the ultimate peacemaker on long trips. Elegant enough for two couples out on the town, yet yank the seats and its a Home Depot special. Have I mentioned I love this thing?
