The Sequoia, which is available in SR5, Limited and Platinum grades, offers the latest Toyota Entune® multimedia audio capability, and a factory-installed Blu-Ray® rear seat entertainment system. In the Limited and Platinum grades, the Sequoia comfortably steps into the role of luxury vehicle family hauler.
A Foundation for Versatility and Power
An exclusive body-on-frame platform gives the Toyota Sequoia a robust foundation for both exemplary capability and smooth, quiet ride comfort. Four-wheel independent suspension provides outstanding bump absorption on-road and excellent wheel articulation off-road.
The Sequoia model line offers the choice of 2WD and full-time 4WD. The available Multi-Mode 4-wheel-drive system uses a two-speed transfer case with a lockable TORSEN® limited-slip center differential to apportion torque to the front and rear wheels. The driver can shift into low range on the move via a rotary knob, and can lock the center diff with the push of a button.
There’s just one engine choice in the Toyota Sequoia, and quite appropriately, it’s a V8 that’s teamed to a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. The iForce DOHC 5.7-liter V8 produces 381 hp at 5,600 RPM and 401 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 RPM. Dual independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and an Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS) ensure ample torque across the engine speed range. ACIS switches the intake tract length in two stages, based on engine RPM and throttle angle. True to Toyota value, the Sequoia uses regular-grade fuel.
Born to Tow
With 90 percent of its peak torque on tap at just 2,200 rpm, the big V8 makes an outstanding towing partner. Compliant with the SAE J2807 towing standard, the Sequoia can tow up to 7,400 lbs., depending on model grade and equipment. In fact, Toyota designed numerous features for that purpose. For example, the towing hitch is integrated into the frame as a single unit. The transmission’s driver-selectable Tow/Haul mode modifies shift points for optimal performance. Towing newbies and veterans alike will appreciate the Trailer Sway Control system, which uses the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) to help counteract handling forces that can lead to trailer sway.
Handling and Ride
Now, here’s a category that some full-size SUVs might try to duck. But Toyota engineered the Sequoia to driver “smaller” than its size suggests. Again, a key is the high-strength chassis equipped with four-wheel independent suspension, which uses upper and lower A-arms and coil springs at each wheel. A 38-foot turning circle is one of the tightest in the class. Braking power, too, is formidable, with 13.9-inch ventilated front disc brakes and 13.6-inch ventilated rear disc brakes -- all using four opposed pistons.
The Sequoia Platinum grade steps into luxury SUV territory with its load-leveling rear air suspension and Adaptive Variable Suspension. The latter is an electronic damper control system that offers driver-selectable settings for Comfort, Normal and Sport. The rear air spring suspension helps maintain appropriate ride height and chassis attitude when carrying heavy loads or towing.
The Sequoia SR5 rides on 18-inch aluminum wheels with 275/65 R18 tires; Limited and Platinum grades roll on 20-inch aluminum wheels with 275/55 R20 tires. In keeping with the jeweled theme, wheels on the Platinum feature a diamond-cut finish.
Expansive Interior
The Toyota Sequoia is a true space shuttle. Each of its eight seating positions can comfortably accommodate people well above normal height. When folding the second- and third-row seats flat, the Sequoia can swallow up to 120.1 cubic feet of whatever you need to carry, even objects up to 11 feet long. In the Sequoia, extra-large cup/bottle holders outnumber passengers two to one. The Platinum grade even adds two more for good measure.
Versatile seating is a Sequoia specialty. With a 40:20:40 split, the second-row bench-type seat allows a variety of combinations, augmented by a seat-slide adjustment range of 5.9 inches. The middle row folds flat and there’s a one-touch easy-slide feature to make it easy for passengers to enter the third row. More luxurious second-row captain seats are available for a seven-seat cabin.
The third-row seat, which is fully hospitable for adults, is split 60:40 and can recline. The third row also easily folds flat, a task made even more convenient by the available power tilting and folding feature. The rear liftgate features power sliding glass that can open separately, and the huge cargo area is equipped with handy hooks for grocery bags.
All three grades offer two interior color choices of Graphite and Sand Beige. A Red Rock interior is also available on the Platinum grade, and the SR5 Sport Appearance Package uses an exclusive black interior.