Toyota's full-size Sequoia offers big families a spacious 3-row SUV with a history of reliability and low cost of ownership. Unlike many crossover SUVs, the Sequoia's rugged body-on-frame platform and available 4-wheel drive (4WD) allow it to venture off-road, another plus for outdoor lovers. Over the generations, Sequoia has offered a series of V8 engines, although the latest generation has moved to a turbocharged V6 hybrid. Towing ability varies over the years, but on the whole, lags behind competitors like the Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition. However, the Sequoia is at the top of its class in terms of resale.
Toyota Sequoia Generations
Toyota Sequoia (3rd Generation: 2023 - Current)
Key Improvements: The third-generation Toyota Sequoia deviates from its predecessors in a few ways. The most obvious is under the hood, where the previous generation's V8 gets replaced by a hybrid powertrain consisting of a twin-turbocharged V6 and electric motor. Total output is 437 horsepower, and towing rises to 9,000 pounds. There are more advanced off-road systems, such as Crawl Control, and more driver aids, like lane-tracing assist, Road Sign Assist, and rear cross-traffic alert with trailer merge warning. You'll find the ride superior to the previous Sequoia, smooth and more controlled, with better steering feel. A sliding third-row seat makes it easy for passengers to get comfy, and while some loyalists will miss the retractable power rear window, a built-in flip-up window in the liftgate makes it easier to load cargo. New tech for the Sequoia includes a rear camera mirror, a multicamera Panoramic View Monitor surround-view system, and power-extendable trailering mirrors. There's an upgraded multimedia setup, with a standard 8-inch touchscreen and available 14-inch display. Other new features include a digital instrument cluster, a color head-up display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic moonroof.
Model Updates: For 2024, Toyota introduces the Nightshade and TRD Off-Road packages.
Toyota Sequoia (2nd Generation: 2008 - 2022)
Key Improvements: The second-generation Sequoia sees several improvements over the first. It has a longer wheelbase, a wider body, more interior room, and an independent rear suspension. An optional 5.7-liter V8 makes 108 hp more than the outgoing model's standard V8, which is still available as the base engine on the second-generation Sequoia for a short time. Over its 14-year run, the second-generation Sequoia picks up more safety and driver-assist systems, sees revised engine options, gains superior infotainment and multimedia systems, and for some model years, the ability rises to 7,000 pounds. The second generation sees more options, like an adaptive suspension, load-leveling rear suspension, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, front and rear parking sensors, and, later in the model run, Toyota Safety Sense driver aids.
Model Updates: The 2010 SR5 gets a new 310-hp 4.6-liter V8. All trims add front knee airbags, along with some styling changes. For 2012, trailer sway control, Entune audio with smartphone integration, and a blind-spot monitor became options, while in 2013, the 5.7-liter V8 is made standard on all trims. In 2014, Entune is made standard. 2018 sees the introduction of Toyota Safety Sense-P, which adds automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. A blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert are also standard. The 2020 Sequoia gains standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto while adding a new TRD Pro trim.
Toyota Sequoia (1st Generation: 2001 - 2007)
The first-generation Sequoia is renowned for durability and longevity, making it a reasonably safe late-model used car purchase. Based on the Tundra pickup, the first-generation Sequoia shares many parts, including the dash and some sheet metal. The OG Sequoia offers seating for up to eight, employs a 240-hp V8 engine, and can tow up to 6,500 pounds. Although it has no advanced driver assist features, it comes with vehicle stability control and optional side curtain airbag coverage.
Model Updates: The 2003 Sequoia offers a rear-seat DVD player and load-leveling rear air suspension. The 2004 SR5 gains more features, like a rear A/C unit, while the 2005 Sequoia gets a facelift, a revised V8 with more horsepower, and a new 5-speed automatic transmission. A new Torsen center differential, operated by a push-button controller, joins 4WD models. 2007 brings standard front passenger side airbags and 2-row side curtain airbags.
Toyota Sequoia Buying Tips
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