Toyota Sequoia History
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The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size, truck-based sport-utility vehicle. Geared especially toward those who intend to use their SUV for work or regular towing or hauling, the Sequoia was Toyota's first effort to take on the Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, Ford Expedition, and Dodge Dakota.
The Sequoia made its debut for 2001, following the full-size Tundra on which it's based by less than a year. From the start, the Sequoia packed V-8 engines with a choice of rear- or four-wheel drive. The base engine at first was a 240-horsepower, 4.7-liter V-8 and four-speed automatic transmission, but 2005-2007 models got a stronger, 282-hp (or 273-hp) version, paired with a five-speed automatic, that was also a bit smoother and not any worse on gas. These models aren't exactly the pinnacle of refinement—they have more road, engine, and wind noise than some might expect in a full-size truck—and they weren't quite as spacious inside as rival Ford and Chevy models, but the proved themselves to be sturdy, reliable trucks. SR5 and Limited models added more luxury features, and a series of improvements phased in with the stronger engine in 2005 made the Sequoia much more appealing overall. Toyota was also a safety trendsetter in offering electronic stability control standard on all these trucks.
A completely redesigned Sequoia was introduced for 2008. Again coinciding with a new Tundra, the Sequoia this time got an available 381-horsepower, 5.7-liter V-8 and six-speed automatic that at last put it on equal, if not better, footing for those who frequently tow than the light-duty Big Three trucks. Base models got a 276-horsepower, 4.7-liter V-8 and five-speed automatic. Fuel economy isn't that much different between the two engines though—it ranges from an EPA 13/16 mpg to 13/18.
The new Sequoia had an almost cartoonish macho appearance and was built on a stronger, fully-boxed frame and a new rear independent suspension that allowed an impressive load capacity along with better ride and handling attributes. Even though the truck has an improved turning radius, visibility is more difficult for parking, and the plus size and extremely high seating position prove to be handicaps rather than assets. There are three rows of seating, with the middle row a choice of a bench or two captain's chairs. The Sequoia's highway ride in particular was much improved and the cabin was quieter, and interior appointments now rival those of the more expensive Land Cruiser.
Base, Limited, and Platinum models are offered, with the Platinum getting a lot of extras including heated and ventilated seats, heated mirrors, DVD entertainment, a nav system with XM NavTraffic, JBL sound, and real wood trim.
Toyota has added a few more standard features at several points in recent years but changed little else. On 2010 models, Toyota has added Bluetooth, satellite radio, a USB port, and an auxiliary port to the standard-equipment list; while the 2012 Sequoia got a standard trailer sway control system as well as a blind-spot monitor.
