The History Of Toyota Sequoia

The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV. The Sequoia is built under the Toyota brand and based on their Tundra pickup truck. Debuting in 2000 for the 2001 model year, it was slotted in price between the mid-size 4Runner and the Land Cruiser. The Sequoia was nominated for the North American Truck of the Year award for 2001. Also, it filled the gap when the Land Cruiser was dropped from the Canadian market in 1995. The Sequoia is built at Toyota's Princeton, Indiana truck assembly plant on the same assembly line as the Tundra and is currently sold exclusively in the United States and Canada.

The Sequoia is the largest SUV sold under the Toyota name, and is slightly bigger than the Land Cruiser with the capability to hold eight passengers instead of seven and room for more luggage behind its third row. However, it lacks the sophisticated permanent 4-wheel drive that the Land Cruiser is famous for.

The Sequoia was originally shown in car shows in 1999 and 2000, with full production starting in late 2000 as a 2001 model. Engine, driveline, and some sheetmetal components are shared with the Tundra, and shares the same basic chassis, with the exception of rear disc brakes and a more sophisticated multi-link live axle rear suspension. It received minor cosmetic updates for 2005 and gained a more powerful engine equipped with VVT-i, LED-backlit gauges, as well as a 5-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous 4-speed. The Sequoia is slightly longer than the Land Cruiser, however, it is barely noticeable. At introduction it was larger than the Chevrolet Tahoe in most dimensions and similar in size to the Ford Expedition; its V8 engine was certified as Ultra Low Emission Vehicle. Frame assemblies and driveshafts are produced by Dana Corporation.

The Sequoia comes in two trim levels; SR5 and Limited. The SR5 starts at $32,820 while the more expensive Limited starts at $41,855. It is sold in both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive versions.

Toyota unveiled the 2008 Toyota Sequoia at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show. It was designed to look more like its platform counterpart, the Tundra. The model is based on the new Tundra, which was launched in February 2007. Major differences with the Tundra include a fully-boxed frame and a rear independent suspension featuring coil springs.

Improvements include an optional 381 horsepower 5.7 liter V8, optional power folding split third row seats, and larger dimensions in every area. The 2008 Sequoia comes in three trim lines: the SR5 and Limited, featured on the first generation, and new Platinum, which is exclusive for the Sequoia at the current time. Pricing ranges from about $35,000 to $55,000 depending upon the trim line and configuration.

The base engine is the 4.7 liter 276 horsepower V8 featured on the previous generation, though a newer replacement may be in the works. The 4.7 liter is standard on the SR5, while the Limited and Platinum models come standard with a 5.7 liter V8 engine. Four wheel drive is available on all models.

The interior of the 2008 Sequoia has been completely redesigned, featuring the new, somewhat controversial dash of the new Tundra. Typical options include DVD based navigation with backup camera, a DVD entertainment system, and seat warmers/ coolers in the front row and warmers in the second row, available in Platinum trim. The HVAC system includes sun sensors to appropriately adjust airflow for each side of the vehicle. Exterior differences include door handle colors (color-keyed for the SR5; chrome for the Limited and Platinum), diamond-cut aluminum alloy wheels for the Platinum trim, and varying power-heated remote-controlled side mirrors. Standard features include a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, power windows and doors, dual sun visors, and a keyless entry system via remote control. The Limited includes audio, climate, and hands-free Bluetooth mobile phone system controls, an improved audio system, optitron gauges, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with a HomeLink transceiver. The Platinum model includes a standard DVD navigation system with a backup camera, as well as Autonomous cruise control system AKA ~ Adaptative cruise control (ACC)

Seating arrangements are for seven or eight passengers, eight for SR5 and Limited models and seven for Platinum models. Power folding 60/ 40 split third row seats are available on the Platinum. The Toyota Sequoia has a towing capacity greater than any other SUV.[citation needed]

It is the main vehicle used in the series Prison Break on season 4. Also the main car for Bones.

In a Motor Trend comparison the Sequoia took 1st place.