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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AEWSOME - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
By FF757 - December 24 - 10:00 amGreat Truck I love it
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Not Perfect But Still The Best - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
By Tinyelviss - November 29 - 9:13 pmMy Sequoia has 8000 miles and runs flawlessly. Ergonomics excellent except for daytime visual of HVAC controls require driver to lean towards center of vehicle. Gobs of space in the back-much more useful than Tahoe. Electric rear window a big hit with the kiddies, but watch out for sucking stinky exhaust into cabin. INterior lighting excellent but needs central switch. 4WD system outstanding. You will really appreciate the locking center differential if you use 4WD more than just on rainy days around town. Vehicle Skid Control really works! All in all a nice looking package that surrounds you in safe quality.
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Almost the perfect car - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
By Rescurik - November 28 - 10:00 amIf it didnt eat up so much gas, it would be the perfect car.
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Toyota Sequoia - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
By pjcho - November 22 - 2:00 amI have really enjoyed this car. Moving seats up, back, and over is so easy. I can store groceries, boxes, plants, big objects easily. My kids love the comfort, I love driving it. It is the best SUV for a busy family in my opinion.
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Sequoia - One Year Later - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
By alans727 - October 16 - 10:00 amThis has been a wonderful vehicle. Very solid, plenty of room and a great road car. Only wish it would get better mileage.
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great vehicle - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
By myvette - October 16 - 10:00 ama very fine vehicle....best in its class the safest suv in crash test.. side & curtain air bags a great affordable option very worth the $$$.
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Great Family Vehicle - 2008 Toyota Sequoia
By Jonathan - October 16 - 1:20 amI was interested in the Sequoia before the redesign, and after seeing the new 2008s it moved to top of my list. We got the Limited edition and added the dual headrest DVDs with 2nd Row bucket seats. I could not be more happy with this car. It is primarily my wifes and she goes on and on about how much she loves driving this car. It has an incredible turning radius for a car of its size and drives very quiet and smooth. For long trips, the ride, the navigation, and the rear DVDs make traveling with our 3 year old and 3 month old a breeze.
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One year with the Sequoia - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
By krisko - October 9 - 10:00 amIf you are considering a full sized SUV, the Sequoia must be a serious contender. It features gobs of room, numerous safety features, plenty of luxo goodies yet is relatively fun and easy to drive for such a big vehicle. While a tad pricey compared to the competition, I think in the long run it will be cheaper when repairs and depreciation are considered. I paid $38,700 for mine with everything but sunroof and 4wd. I could have bought the same Expedition or Durango for almost $10,000 less but I know Id have problems down the road. Bottom line? Peace of mind is worth money to me.
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My Yota - 2006 Toyota Sequoia
By Monica - October 9 - 2:30 amI had a 2004 4runner and I absolutely loved it! I recently decided it was time to upgrade to a third row seat. so I bought my Sequoia. I love the Sequoia but the only problem is that it gets horrible gas mileage. 13.7 mpg. with gas reaching $4 a gallon Im wishing I would have gone with a hybrid. All of our cars are Toyotas b/c you cant beat the quality. Im looking forward to getting rid of a carseat or two and opting for a Prius. If you have the money to keep up with the gas then youll be fine.
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Not bad but having VSC issues at 100K - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
By Jim - September 29 - 10:36 pmJust turned 100K for 2003 sequoia and pretty good truck. Have had a few recent issues with the VSC light and needed sensor replacements as well as timing belt at 90K for about $1500 but other then that, pretty reliable. I have four kids (two in college) and we use for trips back and forth. I hope to drive and put 250K miles...
