Teresa’s View
To adequately test Toyota’s Sequoia we had to get a little mud on the tires. So we asked intrepid outdoorsman Jake, ably assisted by his wife Sue, to lead us on a day trek along rutted logging roads deep into timber country at the base of Mount Rainier.
The full-size SUV is made for the out-of-doors. Built on the same frame as Toyota’s full-size pickup, the Tundra, the Sequoia provides a stable, comfortable and confident ride. Although the first step into the big ute was daunting for us short-legged girls, the 10.6 inches of ground clearance came in handy as we easily hurdled rocks and stumps. The four-wheel drive system is simple to use, employing a dash-mounted switch to shift from 2H to 4H.
For 2005, Toyota focused on adding safety features and improving drive comfort and control. The Sequoia now includes dual-stage airbags for front occupants and optional side airbags. Also available is a second-row side curtain airbag with a rollover sensor. Toyota’s Star Safety System adds vehicle skid control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist — all designed to keep the driver in control and the rig on the road.
The Sequoia’s 4.7-liter V-8 engine got a small power boost, increasing horsepower by 42 to 282 and torque from 315 pound-feet to 325. A new five-speed automatic transmission replaces the previous four-speed tranny for smoother on-road manners and better fuel economy.
Some cosmetic nips and tucks around the front fascia, grille and taillights update the overall package.
What Is It?: Introduced in 2001, the eight-passenger Sequoia is built for Americans in America to bridge the gap between Toyota’s midsize 4Runner and pricey, full-size Land Cruiser. It’s offered in two trims, the SR5 and Limited, in either two- or four-wheel drive. Expect to spend around $33K for a 2WD SR5 and $45K for a 4WD Limited.
Gadget Rating: 8.4 out of 10. Both trims offer a long list of comfort features. I like the four 12-volt power outlets and the new optional navigation system with the JBL premium AM/FM CD audio system, but do we need five overhead bins for sunglasses and shouldn’t the mirrored visors include lights? More demerits for placing the most commonly used controls out of this driver’s reach.
The Back Seat: Although seat padding looks thin and the seats sit primly straight, all passengers reported a surprisingly comfortable ride. The second and third rows scoot forward and aft — the third row even reclines. Both rows can be removed, but not without a fight.
That’s Gonna Hurt: Fuel economy is rated a meager 15-mpg city and 18-mpg highway. On the plus side, the big guy takes regular-grade fuel and is certified as an ultra-low emission vehicle.
The Buzz: Look for a major redesign of the Sequoia in 2007.