2011 Toyota Sequoia Review

About this Vehicle

Trim: 2011 Toyota Sequoia Limited

MSRP: $50,140 Engine: 5.7L V8 Transmission: Automatic

Drivetrain: 4X2, 4X4 Fuel Type: Gas, Flex Fuel Curb Weight: 5,730 lbs.

Review

Manufactured in Indiana and unveiled in 2000, the Toyota Sequoia is a full-sized truck-based SUV. At a slightly larger total size than the Land Cruiser, it is the largest SUV currently sold by Toyota. Since Toyota bases the Sequoia on the Tundra, the SUV entered its second generation with heavy changes in 2007 for the 2008 model year. This provided a jolt to sales, but sales dropped off for 2009 due to all the negative attention. Is the 2011 edition enough to recover fully? Let’s find out.
The 2011 Toyota Sequoia is an interesting vehicle for a number of reasons, not the least of which has to do with the wide range of choices a potential buyer will have. There are different editions of this vehicle that will carry along different price tags. Some have complained that the Sequoia is a little bit bland on the outside, but it does offer some enticing positives for people who love powerful SUVs. A definite improvement over previous versions, the Sequoia is worth considering by those in the market for a large, luxury SUV.
Toyota’s MSRP begins at approximately $39,000, and it extends as far as $60,000 for a fully loaded edition. However, based on the last model year’s average paid numbers and Toyota’s plans for aggressive marketing, dedicated shoppers can expect to do far better. The Sequoia is available in three trim levels: the base SR5, the mid-tier Limited, and the full-bore premium Platinum edition. Sequoias are available in either 2WD or 4WD and in the customer’s choice of a 4.6-liter or 5.7-liter V8 motor that Toyota pairs with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

How did it handle?

Out on the road, the 2011 Sequoia is all about power and much less about incredible handling. It is on a truck frame unlike the 2011 Escalade, so drivers can expect an experience that mirrors truck driving. The all-wheel drive versions handle much better than the four-wheel drive contemporaries, though drivers will sacrifice some power and control with the switch. The towing performance that comes along with this vehicle makes it a great pick for some, and drivers have been applauding Toyota on its smooth gear transitions that accompany the 6-speed automatic transmission.
Recent reviews of the newest Sequoia suggest that Toyota has once again delivered a class-leading ride. Even those consumers who don’t generally like the stiff rides of large truck-based SUVs should test-drive this one. With the 4.6 under the hood, the Sequoia is no slouch, but it is with the low-end torque provided by the 5.7 that this SUV really begins to shine. Reviewers also laud the gear transitions, towing performance, and performance at capacity.

Notable specifications

Depending upon the version that a buyer chooses, the 2011 Sequoia has an MSRP range of around $39,000 to just north of $60,000. Luckily for buyers, there seems to exist a market well under MSRP for this particular release. The SR5 version of the Sequoia has a slightly smaller and less powerful engine than some of its competitors, offering a 4.6 liter, V8 that produces 310 horsepower and 327 lb/ft worth of torque. Those who choose the Limited or Platinum editions will enjoy a 5.7 liter V8 that offers more than 380 horsepower and a remarkable amount of low-end torque. The 2011 Sequoia comes in either 4-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, depending upon driver preferences.
The 5.7 liter V8 carries 401 lbs/ft worth of torque, which has become the calling card of this particular SUV. The smaller engine lacks a little bit in performance, but brings about a smoother ride as a result. The larger engine has the ability to tow up to 9,000 pounds, a true testament to the low-end torque that it constantly provides.
In terms of fuel economy, the smaller engine offers 14 miles per gallon in the city, with 19 on the highway. The larger engine performs slightly worse, offering 13 and 18 for drivers.

Interior features

The 2011 Toyota Sequoia features all of the swanky things that drivers demand in their luxury SUVs. It has satellite navigation, a DVD player, leather seats, and excellent carpet. Additionally, the new version features a conversation mirror for parents who feel the need to keep an eye on their children in the car. When carrying four or five kids to soccer practice, this can truly come in handy.
Toyota bases the Sequoia on the Tundra, and the Tundra has been busy earning a reputation for an underwhelming interior. The Sequoia, on the other hand, has been busy setting a standard for interiors within its class. The Sequoia’s interior is stylish, modern, convenient, and family-friendly. The conversation mirror is particularly handy for parents who must monitor children while driving.

Safety Features

In terms of safety, the Sequoia offers front-seat side and knee airbags, three-row side curtain airbags, anti-lock disc brakes, and stability control. On the Limited and the Platinum editions, Toyota includes a backup camera, and front and rear parking sensors. All of these items are available as options on the SR5. Last year’s model with a similar setup earned a 5-star rating in government testing.
Overall, the 2011 Toyota Sequoia is a lot like last year’s Sequoia. There are some exterior cosmetic tweaks that set it apart, and a new Appearance package offer second-row captain’s chair. However, these chairs trim passenger capacity from eight to seven. Whether or not this package is enough to bring the consumer back remains to be seen, but working in the Sequoia’s favor, it provides great performance and earned a 10/10 Reliability score last year from J.D. Power and Associates.

Pros

There are many reasons why this vehicle remains a very popular choice for car buyers. Its towing ability is at the top of the list, and its relatively affordable price is a strong consideration, as well. Many buyers see this vehicle as a great value and they note the high resale value of Toyotas in general.

Vehicle cons

Some feel as if the exterior could use a bit more styling, but that is only a small problem. There are also complaints about the fuel economy of this bulky SUV, but that comes with the territory with a vehicle of this size.

Comparables

• Chevrolet Tahoe: The Sequoia offers more cargo space and some reviewers say it’s more refined. Otherwise, the Tahoe provides strong competition to the Sequoia, and it does so for about $2,000 less.
• Chevrolet Suburban: The Suburban and GMC Yukon are very similar, so if you consider one, test-drive both. These are a bit larger and provide better fuel performance, but they don’t have the reliability reputation of the Sequoia.
• Ford Expedition: The Expedition is a nice SUV, and it provides the most power in its Triton V8, if that’s what you’re looking for. It tends to come up short elsewhere though.