2011 Toyota Sequoia Review

Overview

The Toyota Sequoia has recently been introduced as the newest competitor in the full size SUV category. The Sequoia sits in the middle of a competition with some huge competitors like the Chevy Tahoe and Ford Expedition. The design of the Sequoia has focused on the interior design of the cabin more than anything, even putting its off road ability second in line. The fact is that most buyers of these huge full sized SUVs are more interested in a lavishly equipped interior than they are about how well it will do in the rough off road conditions that SUVs were initially intended for. This is the thought behind the Toyota design and many younger consumers are only interested in gadgetry, this seems to hold very true. The 2011 offers two different V-8 engines one offering 310 horsepower and the other offering 381 horsepower. The larger engines combined with a six speed automatic give the Sequoia a very powerful and smooth ride that must be experienced to be appreciated, but this vehicle is far from capable when it comes to its off road abilities.

The Range

Body styles: SUV
Engines: 4.6L V-8, 5.7L V-8
Transmissions: 6-speed automatic
Models: SR5, Limited, Platinum

What's New

Last year, Toyota added the company's new 4.6-liter, 310-horsepower V-8 to the Sequoia option list, which has better fuel economy than the 4.7-liter it replaces, and more power, too. More equipment was made standard as well. For the 2011 Toyota Sequoia, a brake override system was added, there is a new wood grain on the Platinum grade, and Dark Gray replaces Slate, while Nautical Blue and Spruce were dropped.

Exterior

The Toyota Sequoia is an attractive full-size SUV with a more rounded look than the first-gen had. The Platinum trim gives the Sequoia Diamond finish 20-inch wheels and chrome power, power-folding, auto-dimming heated side mirrors with puddle lamps.

Interior

The Sequoia's spacious cabin can seat up to eight, and has features such as three-zone climate control, power windows and doors, Bluetooth, and eight-way-adjustable power seat are standard for the Sequoia; leather, rear-seat entertainment, and heated second-row seats are available.

Performance & Handling

As you would expect, the 5.7-liter, 381-horsepower V-8 and six-speed automatic make quick work of getting this 6100-pound Sequoia SUV to speed. The Sequoia's 0-to-60 time is an impressive 6.7 seconds; the Sequoia runs through the quarter mile in 15.2 seconds at 91.7 mph. It stops from 60 mph in 135 feet, provides a comfortable ride, and does an admirable job on twisting roads.

Safety

Driver and front passenger airbags, dual front seat-mounted side airbags, dual front knee airbags, and three-row side curtain airbags are standard on the Toyota Sequoia. Also standard are disc brakes with ABS, brake assist, and electronic brake-force distribution; brake override; stability control; and traction control.

EPA Fuel Economy

SR5, Limited, Platinum: 13-14 mpg city/18-19 mpg highway

You'll Like

• Quiet cabin
• Terrific power
• Comfortable ride
• Power-folding third row

You Won't Like

• Light steering
• High price for Platinum
• No automatic 4WD mode
• Cluttered dash