Despite the number of models available, the full-size SUV segment isn’t one that generates a lot of talk among consumers. Vehicles like the Toyota Sequoia, with their body-on-frame construction, are built for the pretty specific purpose of being able to transport a crowd while also boasting towing capacity to rival the full-size pickups on which they’re based.
In the Sequoia’s case, that basis is the Tundra. and where that pickup can tow as much as 4,535 kg, the Sequoia trades come of that ability for its eight-seat interior, offering a still-substantial 3,175-kg tow rating.
For 2019, the Sequoia is once again unchanged, which means Toyota has made very few notable updates to its largest vehicle since the introduction of this current generation a decade ago.
Under the hood lives a 5.7L V8 that makes 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque and comes mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive with low-range gearing.
The Nissan Armada and Ford Expedition are among the newest designs in this category and, along with GM’s Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban and GMC Yukon, make this big Toyota feel dated inside.
There are nods to modernity in here in the form of a 6.1-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth and USB ports, but Toyota doesn’t offer the Apple CarPlay or Android Auto smartphone integration platforms, nor can you have wireless device charging.
The Sequoia is available in SR5, Limited, and Platinum trims.
Standard equipment includes leather upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, 10-way power driver's seat, four-way power passenger seat, moonroof and a power-operated rear window that slides down into the tailgate. 18-inch wheels are also standard.
Move up to Limited trim for 20-inch alloy wheels, a 12-speaker sound system, navigation, electroluminescent gauge cluster, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, power-adjustable steering column, cargo cover, second and third-row sunshades, power tailgate, power-folding heated auto-dimming exterior mirrors with reverse auto tilt and blind-spot monitoring.
Finally, Platinum trim adds adaptive suspension with rear air ride, 14-speaker stereo, rear-seat entertainment system, wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel, radar cruise control, second-row centre console, 120-volt power outlet, ventilated front seats, perforated leather upholstery, heated second-row captain’s chairs and woodgrain trim.
Toyota’s fuel consumption estimates are 18.4/13.8 L/100 km (city/highway).
