2008 Toyota Sequoia: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Toyota Sequoia is redesigned, gaining new styling and features and more available power without growing much larger. Sequoia is based on the chassis of Toyota's large Tundra pickup truck. It shares Tundra's powertrains but gets an independent rear suspension that makes possible a lower floor and more legroom for its 3rd-row seat. Compared to the 2001-2007 Sequoia, the 2008 is just 1.2 inches longer and about an inch taller and wider. However, its wheelbase (the distance between the front and rear axles) grows 3.9 inches, with most of that expansion used to add passenger space; cargo volume actually shrinks by 8.1 cubic feet.

SR5 and Limited models return, joined for 2008 by a top-line Platinum model. SR5 4.7 versions come with a 276-hp 4.7-liter V8 and a 5-speed automatic transmission. SR5 5.7, Limited, and Platinum have a 381-hp 5.7-liter V8 and a 6-speed automatic. Maximum towing capacity is 10,000 lb, an increase of 3500 over the previous-generation Sequoia. All come with rear-wheel drive or 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. Seating for eight is standard on SR5 and Limited. Replacing the 2nd-row bench with two bucket seats and a console creates seating for seven that's standard on Platinum, optional on Limited. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, an antiskid system, curtain side airbags that cover all seating rows, and front side airbags.

Standard are a tilt and telescopic steering column and three-zone climate control. Standard or optional depending on model are a power-folding 3rd-row seat, adjustable air suspension, navigation and DVD entertainment systems, rearview camera, and adaptive cruise control.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large SUVs are traditionally workhorse seven-plus passenger wagons with brawny truck-type chassis, ample towing ability, lots of cargo space, and generally poor fuel economy. These vehicles offer towing and payload ratings similar to large pickup trucks.

Our Best Buys include Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, and Ford Expedition. We have no Recommended picks in this class for 2008.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Toyota Sequoia. The Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon add a gas/electric hybrid model for 2008.