Toyota's full-size Sequoia SUV was redesigned a few years ago, and the platform continues through the latest model year with minor cosmetic and content updates. It features a new body, a new interior, a new chassis, and an available new 5.7-liter V8 engine coupled to a six-speed transmission.
A new platform provides exterior dimensions that are competitive with other vehicles in the Sequoia's class. Inside, efficient packaging gives the new Sequoia a roomier cabin and more luggage space.
The large V8 engine provides 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine, which is ULEV-II compliant, uses four valves per cylinder and Dual Variable Valve Timing. The exhaust system, constructed of stainless steel, uses a valve in the main muffler to alter exhaust flow, reduce exhaust noise and improve performance.
As a result, the Sequoia has a gross combined weight rating of 17,280 lbs. In addition to the available 5.7-liter V8 engine, the 4.7-liter iForce V8 has been replaced with a more powerful 4.6-liter iForce V8 to come standard.
An electronically controlled five-speed automatic ECT (Electronically Controlled Transmission) is mated to the standard 4.6-liter V8, while a new six-speed ECT automatic is part of the powertrain package when the available with the 5.7-liter V8.
Fuel economy
Fuel economy for the Tundra varies a bit based on engine and drivetrain options, with the base 4.6-liter V8 and 2WD returning 14 city, 20 highway, or 13 city, 18 highway when equipped with 4WD. Switch to the 5.7-liter V8 and fuel economy drops to 13 city, 18 highway for the 2WD model, or 13 city, 17 highway with 4WD.
Safety
Sequoia is equipped with Toyota's STAR Safety System, which includes VSC (Vehicle Stability Control), and TRAC (Traction Control) (2WD models) or A-TRAC (Active-Traction Control) (4WD models), ABS (antilock braking) with EBD (electronic brake force distribution) and Brake Assist.
The eight-seater comes standard with front, side, and curtain airbags, including a curtain system that extends from the front seat to the back of the third-row seat.
Standard equipment and options
The Sequoia is available in three grades: SR5, Limited and Platinum.
The list of standard items on the SR5 and Limited grades, includes the 310 horsepower 4.6-liter V8 engine and automatic transmission, engine immobilizer with alarm, direct tire pressure monitoring system, seating for eight passengers, eight-way manually adjustable driver's seat, four-way manually adjustable front passenger's seat, fold-flat feature for second- and third-row seats, auto tri-zone air conditioning, power windows, locks, back window, keyless entry, AM/FM/CD eight-speaker audio system with a mini-plug for iPod compatibility, rear wiper and defogger, tilt/telescope steering wheel, cruise control, spare tire and mud guards.
To that, the Limited grade adds front and rear parking sonar, fog lamps, heated leather-trimmed seats, 10-way-adjustable driver's seat, leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear shift knob, Optitron gauges, multi-information display, electrochromatic rear-view mirror, roof rack, running boards and JBL Synthesis audio system with Bluetooth capability.
A wide range of options are also available on the SR5 and Limited Grades, including the 5.7-liter V8 engine and six-speed transmission, four-wheel drive, a towing package, rear-seat entertainment system, heated leather-trimmed seat packages, load-leveling rear air suspension, sunroof, 20-inch alloy wheels, power back door, and more.
The Platinum grade includes all of the above, and also adds the 5.7-liter V8 engine and six-speed transmission, 20-inch diamond cut-finish alloy wheels, rear load-leveling air suspension, power seat memory package, heated and air-conditioned front seats (driver and first-row passenger), second-row heated seats, rear spoiler, power back door, sunroof, headlamp cleaner, and navigation system with a backup camera.
Laser cruise control is an option exclusive to the Platinum grade.
Key competitors
The Toyota Sequia isn't a big seller, like the Nissan Armada, both often dwarfed in sales compared to the hot-selling Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon platform-mates, as well as the Ford Expedition.