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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  Love my Sequoia! - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By blondie56 - November 16 - 2:00 am

  For three years Ive been eyeing other SUVs passing by. The one that always caught my eye was the Sequoia. Now that it was time to buy, the Sequoia was the first SUV I wanted to look at. I researched my Consumer Reports magazine and it was HIGHLY rated. I looked at all the others, but they didnt compare. I knew that QUALITY,RELIABLITY & SAFETY were in a Toyota. The exterior is beautiful and the interior is even better. I chose the Limited because all the optional features on the SR5 were standard on the Limited. I am very, very happy!

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  Tried em all - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By Big "Utes - November 14 - 10:00 am

  Have owned 11 large SUVs over 20 years. Sequoia is good but lacks the capabilities of the competition. Recent Car & Driver test results says Sequoia was only big ute to get stuck on their course. Got stuck twice last winter in snow - never been stuck before. All vehicles can have problems but have had to replace AC compressor, brakes, steering parts, fuel system EGR)parts, etc. Frustrated by Toyotas tendency to "wish" problems away, requiring calls to Customer Assurance. Toyota is extremely slow to issue recalls for known problems. You have to research TSBs. Im considering selling but choices for big utes are somewhat limited.

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  I love everything about this vehicle - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By Glad I found it - November 13 - 6:53 am

  This vehicle has never let me down in any way. I have had it for 7 years (I never keep a vehicle that long!!) and there have been zero problems. I have driven many vehicles and owned all brands in 40 years of driving - this one is without a doubt, the best!! I am waiting for the day that the 2008 hits the dealerships.

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  Very Happy - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By Melissa - November 2 - 2:43 pm

  I traded in a 00 4 Runner and a 02 Mercedes C320 for the Sequoia. Happiest day was getting rid of the Mercedes and I tearfully left my 4 Runner. I have a 2 year old and one on the way, 2 big dogs and a 6 + hubby, while I am only 53". I drive approx 1400 miles a week (yes, really). I LOVE my truck. I am so happy with it AND I am really tough to please. I cheaped out and got the base model and Im thrilled. Its even won my Dad over. I have learned how to dock it in to parking spaces but it turns as good as our Mercedes. If you are thinking about it, do it, you wont regret it. I got a license plate that says "In between gas stations".

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  Bold & Beautiful - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
  By Terery - October 22 - 8:56 pm

  Traded in Odyssey (loved it) to get a SUV that would fit our family of 6 and tow our 4,500lb boat. The Sequoia w\ 5.7L has plenty of power on tap & even more torque. It accelerates better w\ boat in tow than my 2002 Tundra V8 did w\ no boat. Ride is good for a SUV, but definitely not minivan smooth. Ergonomics are pretty good, but cups & controls hard to reach (even w\ my long arms). Like the high ride height & visibility. Middle & back rows easily fit 6+ passengers w\ leg-room to spare. Avg 16-17mpg, which is good for large SUV in town w\ this much power.

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  Greatest Truck I ever owned 2018 Sequoia Limited - 2018 Toyota Sequoia
  By William Joyce - October 19 - 6:25 pm

  This is my second one and love it. Almost 5,000 miles and trouble free. Milage to be expected 16 average Suburban driving and 18 average on highway. I did get 20 + MPG on one tank couldnt believe it. My last one was a 2013 same model and only one problem in 80,000 miles door hinge got broken with a real strong wind. I recommend this truck very strongly and will buy another in 80,000 miles. I have nothing negative to say about this vehicle.

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  a great car - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
  By robert r - October 16 - 8:13 pm

  finally.. after toying with a armada for a year.. I got this sequoia. It has everything.. I would suggest it for anyone that wants comfort and style.. it is great.

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  YOU NEED THIS SUV - 2007 Toyota Sequoia
  By GP - October 16 - 10:30 am

  I decided to test drive a Sequoia... I took it home an hour later. This is an extremely quiet and smooth ride. Solid workmanship makes this the ultimate in style, comfort and an all around SUV that remains timeless. Well done Toyota, Ill be back for another one if this ever goes out. I currently have 93k on it, runs like a brand new Sequoia.

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  A keeper at last - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Bob Pond - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Having happily owned a number of Land Cruisers from FJ40 days onward, when the price of the LC got above $50K I defected to an Expedition. Mistake. Returned to the Toyota fold with a 2002 Sequoia Limited. What a great vehicle! Tows my trailer and Mule wth aplomb, even in the mountains. Mileage is 15 town, almost 20 highway, 14 towing. Only complaint (a mild one) is that it is kind of a tire eater with the factory rubber. Switched to Michelins as I usually do and expect that to be a non-problem from now on. Rides like a car on the highway, and not too stiff on the backroads. Wife is fanatic Toyota fan on 3rd 4-Runner.

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  Sequoia - One Year Later - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By alans727 - October 16 - 10:00 am

  This has been a wonderful vehicle. Very solid, plenty of room and a great road car. Only wish it would get better mileage.