2007 Toyota Sequoia Review

Toyota's SUV model lineup is vast and varied, and the Sequoia fills the "family utility" niche for the brand. It comes with either two- or four- wheel drive, and either SR5 or Limited trim.

The full-size Sequoia uses the ultra-low emission 4.7L V8 engine also available in the Tundra. This engine produces 273 horsepower and 314 lb-ft of torque at 3400 rpm, and is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission.

Standard traction and stability controls join air bags all around, anti-lock braking with brake assist, and electronic brake force distribution to give a full range of active and passive safety equipment. Other notable standard equipment on the SR5 includes cruise control, front and rear automatic climate control, a CD player, and power mirrors, windows, seats, and locks. The Limited trim packs a number of goodies onto the Sequoia, such as alloy wheels, a towing package, automatic headlights, fog lamps, privacy glass, a moonroof, a roof rack, heated front seats, remote keyless entry, an electrochromic rearview mirror, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.

While the list of standard features is impressive, there are many ways to personalize the Sequoia as well. One of the best DVD navigation systems on the market is a $1,650 option, and skid plates, rear air suspension, daytime running lights, exterior visual enhancements, a rear entertainment system, and a series of audio upgrades are all available. Most of the standard Limited features can be ordered a la carte on the SR5 trim.

The Sequoia's second row easily flips forward and the third row has plenty of headroom making seating for eight not just a possibility, but a practicality. Despite its pickup-based roots, the vehicle is a comfortable highway cruiser and possesses superior road manners. In fact, it cruises more quietly than many cars we've driven.

Off the pavement, the Sequoia's torquey V8 and capable four-wheel-drive system has no trouble powering up slippery mud slopes and negotiating all manner of trailside obstacles. Moving through the backwoods is as easy as water running down a hill. The 4WD Limited, in particular, seems remarkably plush for a vehicle that was so capable.

On-road comfort, off-road capability, seating for eight, and ample cargo space may sound like a well-rounded package, but the Sequoia takes it a step further by having towing capabilities of up to 6,500 pounds.
Toyota's largest SUV, the Sequoia, continues largely unchanged for 2007. Driver and front passenger seat mounted side air bags and two-row curtain side air bags are now standard equipment; previously they were optional. The SR5 Sequoia gets new color-keyed inserts, and the Limited Sequoia receives new chrome exterior mirrors. see less