2007 Toyota Sequoia

Standing Tall

The full-size Toyota Sequoia SUV takes on the big domestic models that dominate the segment.

The Toyota Sequoia is named after the sequoia tree, to convey size, strength, longevity and beauty.

The Sequoia is based on the full-size Tundra pickup truck, and it’s built at the same Indiana assembly plant. Available in base (which Toyota calls SR5) and Limited trim levels, the eight-passenger Sequoia is slotted between the smaller 4Runner and the more-sophisticated and luxurious Land Cruiser. With a burly exterior and an accommodating interior, the Toyota Sequoia is longer than the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, though it falls short of the domestic offerings in terms of horsepower.

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Recent updates include front side and two-row side-curtain airbags, starting with the 2007 model year. The side curtain airbags include a rollover sensor that fires the airbags if it determines the vehicle is about to roll over. Other updates include a new color-keyed grille insert included with the base SR5 model, and chrome rearview mirrors added to the top Limited version.

The standard V8 in the Toyota Sequoia is mated to a smooth-shifting, five-speed automatic transmission. The combination produces ample acceleration and a stout maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. Not surprisingly, gas mileage is low.

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Like other big SUVs, fuel prices have hurt Sequoia sales. A redesigned version expected for the 2008 model year is expected to grow in both size and power, which will make it difficult to improve gas mileage.

The Toyota Sequoia offers a smooth ride in a straight line, but handling is on a par with most large SUVs, meaning you’ll feel its bulk in sharp turns. Sophisticated chassis control systems include four-wheel disc antilock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, Vehicle Skid Control to maintain stability during cornering and traction control to minimize wheel slippage during acceleration.

Toyota Sequoia Vehicle Summary

An optional rear load-leveling suspension automatically compensates for the weight of added passengers and/or payload. The Sequoia’s optional four-wheel-drive system can be switched on or off on the fly.

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The Toyota Sequoia has a spacious cabin. Standard features are plentiful, though it doesn’t yet offer such high-tech items as laser-guided cruise control, adaptive headlamps or a backup camera (unlike the Toyota Sienna minivan, for example). Split-folding second- and third-row seats maximize both passenger and cargo carrying. The third-row seats slide fore and aft, to create legroom or cargo room. However, they don’t fold flat into the floor, as they do with many SUVs. They can be removed from the vehicle entirely, one side at a time.