 2007 Toyota Sequoia |
This big American-built SUV is redesigned for 2008, not surprisingly on the same platform as Toyota's bigger, new 2007 Tundra large pickups. Toyota is concerned about the timing of this larger Sequoia, fearing consumers will think it too big and thirsty now that gas is back to $3 per gallon. That concern is not unfounded. Demand for large SUVs has been flat or falling since mid-2005, and there's no sign of an upturn. Even General Motors' full-size Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban and GMC Yukon/Denali have had tough sledding despite a stem-to-stern 2007 makeover. So, as with the new-generation Tundras, the 2008 Toyota Sequoia may prove to be one of the company's rare miscalculations. But hey, who knew five years ago, when these trucks were being planned and the sales picture was rosier?
Like its predecessor, the 2008 Toyota Sequoia is basically a four-door "Tundra wagon", sharing many of the pickup's styling cues, features, mechanical components and new-design separate frame. Though we don't know yet precisely how much the SUV will grow, we'd expect most exterior dimensions to increase by two to three inches and weight by around 200 pounds on average. Two V-8 engines will be offered, again borrowed from the latest Tundras: a base 4.7-liter with 271 horsepower and, at extra cost, the new 5.7-liter with 381 horses. The 4.7, previously Sequoia's sole engine, teams with a five-speed automatic transmission. The 5.7 should offer that too, plus a six-speed automatic option. All powerteams should be available in SR5 and luxury Limited models with choice of rear drive or four-wheel drive with low-range gearing.
We estimate Sequoia will go on sale in late fall or early winter.
