Acceleration

2WD SR5	4WD SR5	4WD Limited	4WD Limited w/nav. sys.	Class Average
6	6	6	6	5.1

Plenty of power from any speed. Test 4WD SR5 did a brisk 7.9 sec 0-60 mph. Silky engine well-matched to smooth transmission. Maximum towing weight is 6500 lb.

Fuel Economy

2WD SR5	4WD SR5	4WD Limited	4WD Limited w/nav. sys.	Class Average
3	3	3	3	2.3

Class-typical thirsty: Test 4WD Sequoias averaged 13.7-15.6 mpg. No opportunity to measure with 2WD version, but they likely won't do significantly better. Sequoia uses regular-grade fuel.

Ride Quality

2WD SR5	4WD SR5	4WD Limited	4WD Limited w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	5	5	5	5.7

Long wheelbase, lots of weight make for mostly easy ride, and suspension copes well with really rough stuff. But small sharp imperfections can register with surprising clarity, and wavy surfaces can prompt some sloppy body motions.

Steering/Handling/Braking

2WD SR5	4WD SR5	4WD Limited	4WD Limited w/nav. sys.	Class Average
4	4	4	4	3.6

Few vices. Stable in fast turns, despite marked body lean, but no fun on twisty roads. A large turning radius hurts low-speed maneuverability. Natural-feeling steering. Simulated emergency stops were short and true, but brake pedal action slightly spongy.

Quietness

2WD SR5	4WD SR5	4WD Limited	4WD Limited w/nav. sys.	Class Average
6	6	6	6	5.8

One of the more refined big SUVs, with little engine noise, reasonably low coarse-surface tire drone, and--for a blocky wagon--modest wind rush.

Controls

2WD SR5	4WD SR5	4WD Limited	4WD Limited w/nav. sys.	Class Average
7	7	7	6	6

Clear gauges. Large, well-labeled controls, but those for climate and audio systems a fair stretch for driver. Navigation system absorbs audio controls, requires familiarization; screen difficult to read in bright light. Materials and workmanship pleasing, but SR5 interior looks plain; optional leather upholstery and trim that's standard on Limited dress it up. Limited offers optional wood trim.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2WD SR5	4WD SR5	4WD Limited	4WD Limited w/nav. sys.	Class Average
7	7	7	7	8.7

Only adequate six-footer head clearance, but leg room bountiful. Comfortable seats have long cushions. High ground clearance strains getting in and out even for long-legged occupants, and available running-board steps too narrow to be of much help. Visibility commanding to front and sides, poor to rear in close quarters.

Room/Comfort (rear)

2WD SR5	4WD SR5	4WD Limited	4WD Limited w/nav. sys.	Class Average
7	7	7	7	7.6

Two adults have plenty of space in 2nd row, but middle passenger's foot room restricted by front console, large driveline hump. Entry/exit again awkward. Second-row seats tumble forward for good access to 3rd row. Both rows of seats are split, 3rd row slides fore/aft. Third-row seats have low cushions, are best left to two preteens or toddlers--though even they may find knee and toe room tight.

Cargo Room

2WD SR5	4WD SR5	4WD Limited	4WD Limited w/nav. sys.	Class Average
9	9	9	9	9

Not much behind 3rd-row seat for a vehicle this large, but ample volume with seat sections folded or removed, still more with 2nd-row seat stowed. Liftgate has handy power window. Cabin has lots of bins, pockets, cupholders.

Value within Class

2WD SR5	4WD SR5	4WD Limited	4WD Limited w/nav. sys.	Class Average
7	8	8	7	7.6

Sequoia suffers the usual big-SUV vices, but it merits our Recommended badge as a refined, well-equipped Toyota. Still, top domestic-brand rivals match it in many ways while typically towing more than Sequoia's 6500-lb maximum. They usually carry bigger price discounts, too.

Total Score

2WD SR5	4WD SR5	4WD Limited	4WD Limited w/nav. sys.	Class Average
61	62	62	60	61.4

Scores for all Large Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		56
Average Score		61
High Score		65