2009 Toyota Sequoia Review

Specifications

There is no question that the 2009 Sequoia is Toyota’s answer to the Ford Expedition, the Lincoln Navigator and the Chevrolet Suburban. It is one of the giants in the sport utility world, a monolith of power and comfort.

The Sequoia is available in three trim levels - the SR5, the Limited Edition and the Platinum Edition. All three come in a choice of 2WD or 4WD and the SR5 model has a choice of engines.

The smaller 4.7-Liter DOHC 32-valve i-Force V8 with VVi-T manages 273 hp @ 5400 rpm and 314 lb-ft torque @ 3400 rpm. However, it is a little thirsty at 13 mpg in the city and 16 mpg on the highway.

The bigger 5.7-Liter DOHC 32-valve i-Force V8 with dual independent VVT-I gives a substantial 381 mp @ 5600 rpm and 401 ft-lb torque @ 3600 rpm. The larger engine is marginally better on fuel at 14 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. Maybe not a huge improvement but when the numbers are this low ever bit helps. New for 2009, the 5.7-Liter engine now runs on E85 ethanol-blend fuel as well as conventional gasoline.

Aside from an improved fuel consumption, the 5.7 Liter engine propels the 6000 pound Sequoia for an impressive 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds - .3 of a second faster then the Porshe Boxter and comparable to the Mercedes sporty S class. Thankfully, the class-defining braking system at that speed can stop the beast in 139 feet. Whether starting or stopping, that must have been a harrowing test drive in such a large monster of a vehicle. In comparison, the 5.4-Liter engine in the Ford Expedition performs the 0 to 60 mph test in 9.1 seconds and then brakes in 154 feet.

The Sequoia experienced a facelift in 2008 and the new exterior styling is smoother, more aerodynamic and in keeping with the rest of the Toyota line up. Although the Sequoia remains somewhat bland, it is hard to say what more you could do to jazz up a vehicle this large and maybe it is better this way. You want flash? Buy an FJ Cruiser. Need something to tow the boat to the lake as well as all six of your kids? Buy a Sequoia.

The one let down of the Sequoia is the ride. For its size, it is noisier then the competition nor as smooth as you would expect for a vehicle with such a long wheel base (122 inches). The coil-spring independent double wishbone suspension gives the SR5 and Limited trim levels a truck-like ride - better for off-roading but not as nice on the freeway while the Platinum edition comes standard with Toyota’s Electronic Modulated Suspension as well to smooth out the bumps.

Toyota coupe de gras is always the interior of their vehicles and the Sequoia is no different. Although their latest trend for large knobs on the center console through out their line up seems a bit over the top, the rest of the dash is beautifully finished and incredibly ergonomic. The SR5 and Limited trim packages can comfortably seat eight people in their three rows of spacious seating and while the Platinum edition comes standard with bucket seats with a huge center console in the second row. The third row splits 60/40, reclines and folds away with a touch of a button. Other features include DVD systems that fold down from the ceiling for both the second and third row, DVD navigation system and power sunroof. The standard rear backup camera is a must for a vehicle this size and the power rear door that comes standard on the Platinum edition and optional on the Limited is highly recommended.

Big, cumbersome but amply powered and secure, the Sequoia meets or exceeds the typical quality we have come to expect from Toyota. A powerful family vehicle with exceptional safety ratings, the Sequoia is a great choice for anyone wanting a comfortable SUV that can fit the kids and tow the boat with basic style and unbelievable ease.
2009 Sequoia LTD captions (gold model outside brick house) - exterior styling is straightforward and simple.