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Toyota Sequoia - What the Auto Press Says

The Toyota Sequoia is an excellent alternative to domestic full-size SUVs. It matches strong towing capabilities with a comfortable cabin that includes a spacious and comfortable third-row seat.

UPDATE:  Toyota has halted sales and production of the Sequoia, and seven other models nationwide while the company investigates reports of a problem that could cause the car’s accelerator pedal to stick, making the car accelerate without any input from the driver.  We will update this review as soon as the company has resolved the matter, and resumed selling, and building, the Sequoia. If you own a 2009 Sequoia, and you experience this problem, apply steady pressure to the brakes and put the car into neutral. Don't drive your car again until a fix is available; as soon as one is, we'll let you know. See Toyota's FAQ about the problem

The Sequoia, however, is like that age-old question about the tree falling in the woods. If Toyota makes a great large SUV (named after a tree, of course) but doesn't advertise it, will anyone know about it? Truck Trend says, "the company dares not advertise this mega-guzzler much for fear of eroding its moral hybrid high ground." And therein lies the problem: In this market, Toyota depends on its reputation as the maker of green cars like the Prius to move sales, so even though it's made what some reviewers think is a best-in-class SUV, Toyota doesn't want to tell anyone.

That might be a boon for consumers looking to get a deal. Because Toyota hasn't hyped the Sequoia, which was redesigned in 2008, very much, few reviewers have driven it -- certainly not the number of reviewers usually associated with a relatively new, redesigned model. Those that have taken the Sequoia out give it positive reviews.

Based on the Toyota Tundra, the Sequoia builds on the Tundra's massive towing capabilities and tough-guy styling. Inside, the Sequoia has a large and comfortable cabin with a third-row seat reviewers don't complain about, which is a rarity in any class. When you add in handy tech features, a driving experience that's good for a large SUV and plenty of safety equipment, you have what some reviewers say is a worthy challenger to class leaders from GM.  Compare the Sequoia to the Chevrolet Tahoe.  Both are equally capable, though the Tahoe does have a hybrid model that's eaiser on gas, but its high price tag may be rough on your wallet.

The Toyota Sequoia was completely redesigned in 2008, with a new platform, engines, sheet metal and interior. For 2009, little has changed. A sport trim package makes changes to the Sequoia's exterior and is new for 2009. An E85 model is also new, but is only available in states that haven't adopted California's emissions standards.

If the Sequoia sounds like a good choice for you, check out the deals and incentives Toyota is offering on it with this month's Best Toyota Deals.

• "The best all-around eight-passenger SUV available." -- Edmunds
• "This Recommended large SUV holds its own against most rivals in every measure except dashboard convenience and cargo space behind the 3rd-row seat. Those demerits are softened somewhat by an otherwise inviting cabin and an overall size that makes close-quarters maneuvering easier than with most in this class." -- Consumer Guide
• "Over all, it is a reliable, high-quality S.U.V. that does what it is designed to do admirably well." -- New York Times
• "Overall, the new Sequoia is a homerun at everything it was designed to do, which is mainly a safe, convenient, everyday family hauler and also a take-the-toys, long-distance vacation hauler." -- Four Wheeler
• "Toyota has finally nailed this full-size-truck thing, just as the potential buyers are craigslisting their Cigarette boats, Boston Whalers, and Airstream campers." -- Truck Trend
• "You should certainly try the solidly qualified Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon twins and Ford Expedition as well, but when it comes to passenger accommodations, acceleration and handling dynamics, the redesigned Sequoia is tough to beat." -- Edmunds

Sequoia Performance - 8.0 (Very Good)

The 2009 Toyota Sequoia's performance pleases most reviewers. Though some are disappointed that the Sequoia isn't meant for heavy off-road use, others are impressed with the SUV's massive towing capabilities. Also, several reviewers say they like how Toyota engineered a large SUV that drives like a smaller vehicle. Fuel economy, however, is still a concern. Read More

Sequoia Exterior - NA

Few reviewers mention the 2009 Sequoia's exterior. From the hood to the first row of seats, the Sequoia is nearly identical to the Toyota Tundra pickup on which it is based. Read More

Sequoia Interior - 8.4 (Very Good)

Some reviewers say the 2009 Toyota Sequoia's interior is the best in its class, with comfortable seats, plenty of space and an adult-friendly third row. Still, controls that are tough to reach dampen the praise slightly. Read More

Sequoia Safety - NA

The 2009 Toyota Sequoia earns good safety scores from the federal government. All Sequoias come with rollover sensors, stability and traction control, as well as front, side and side-curtain airbags. Optional safety features include front and rear sonar systems, a backup camera and dynamic laser cruise control. Read More

Sequoia Reliability - NA

The 2009 Toyota Sequoia comes with a 36-month/36,000-mile basic warranty. A 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty is also standard. Read More