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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  Traded in the 2001 for the 2008 Sequoia - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By HRM - April 15 - 4:10 am

  I traded in my 2001 Limited for the 2008 Limited. After months of agony deciding if I should switch from a Toyota to a Lincoln Navigator I ended up sticking with the same car again. Same color and all. My neighbors were rather confused. Id purchased the 2001 when they first came out and after 7 years had absolutely no major problems with the car so I decided to stick with the new 2008 model. Ive had it a few days and love it. Although I must admit it feels fairly larger to drive, kinda like youre in tank or a cockpit, but you get used to it quickly. Price is much higher than before but guess you gotta pay for more automation, i.e., nav, theatre system, power hatch and seats.

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  This is a Toyota? - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By m0000 - April 13 - 1:10 am

  Serious drivetrain problems the dealer says are a "characteristic, not a defect". Brand new car came with the wrong ECU (car computer). Warranty repair was limited to installing a used/remanufactured computer. Major exhaust leak under heavy throttle uphills. Toyota calls this "exhaust sulfur smell problem". Front wheels will not or cannot retain an alignment. Eats up tires. stiff ride. Trac control lights all come on - already fixed once. What next? Please dont make me deal with a toyota dealership anymore...

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  Defective 2005 Sequoia - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
  By Tony - April 10 - 8:26 pm

  Very upset with the purchase of this Sequoia. I drove it off the lot and start to have problems with the power steering fluids. I first I thought it was the dealer not doing their job but apparently I had a defective power steering pump. The car didnt even have 200 miles and it was giving me problems. I would definitely hold off on purchasing the 2005 maybe Toyota will make some recalls.

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  Love My Sequoia - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By JIm - April 10 - 4:13 am

  I traded in my 04 Durango for the Sequoia. This truck is amazing. Rides and tows excellent. It was well worth the wait! It was way more than I expected!

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  A Big (pleasant) Surprise - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Bird - April 10 - 2:00 am

  On the outside this SUV can look big but once inside and behind the whell it feels like a car. It does not even compare with any other, its in a class by itself. I was most surprised by how incredibly quiet this SUV is. It has the feel of a Lexus in quietness.

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  The luxury SUV - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By pillai - April 9 - 8:20 am

  Wanted a lux SUV for kids n stuff. Drove all the rest from cad to H2, infiniti, MB and chose this hands down. Supple smooth and quiet ride with lots of power. Although the Toyota doesnt have bling factor, it is true luxo where it counts - ride, handling smoothness and over all great use of interior space. Very comfortable 2nd and 3rd rows and easy to get into 3rd row. Overall our family is very happy with our choice of this comfortable fun and functional SUV.

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  Sequoia Squashes GM, Ford & Nissan - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By Vig Rig - April 8 - 10:00 am

  This is a highly refined vehicle that will do everything you ask of it. Sustained highway cruising @ 85? How about 17.3mpg for a 900 mile trip? Hauling a trailer loaded with landscaping? The ride is so smooth I thought Id left the trailer at the store. Need to tote six kids? Hey, theres still room for your wife! Want a marque that means value and reliability?

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  Unbelievable - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By dirkpitt - March 28 - 8:20 pm

  I bought my Sequoia in 2001 with just the dealer miles on it. Now, it has about 190,000 miles. I have done the regular services on it. It now needs the 180,000 timing belt change, etc. This SUV is incredible. It is still tight, quiet, and like new inside and out. It still does not burn any oil between changes. I stated using synthetic about 4 years ago. At this point, I wonder how long it will last. So far, no problems at all.

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  Awesome - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Pookie Sr. - March 25 - 10:00 am

  The whole family loves it. The wife thought my Toyota 4x4 was big so she did not want to drive it. She drove this once and now wants to drive it all the time. Just my luck... The ride is great and plenty of storage for all the kids stuff for trips to grandmas. The wife says it like riding in our living room, space galore, smooth and just right.

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  Love my Sequoia - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By mommie - March 13 - 3:03 am

  We purchased our Sequoia used and love it. We have always wanted one and have no regrets. It isnt that bad on fuel as we had anticipated, not too bad at all. If your considering it, do it! I dont see how anyone wouldnt enjoy this vehicle. They look great, ride smooth and are very comfortable. Although, I would try to get a certified one. Not that you may have to use it because the quality seems outstanding, but its better to be safe. you can never go wrong purchasing a Toyota!