2008 Toyota Sequoia…A Name Befitting This Toyota!

The Toyota Sequoia has been a top seller out of the gate for nearly 8 years, representing the dominant manufacturer in the top echelons of vehicles in its class.

Aside from some moderate air bag sensor issues that issues that crept up in 2003, the 2008 Toyota Sequoia has been a solid performer with excellent reliability. Earlier 2001 and 2002 models suffered from exhaust manifold and oxygen sensor issues that spawned pesky $600.00 repair bills. The Toyota Sequoia improved to the extent that there have not been any major recurring issues with it since 2005, a noteworthy accomplishment for a vehicle in its class, given dealer service hourly rates ranging from $80.00- $140.00 and hour. It is reassuring the 2008 Toyota Sequoia is perhaps the best Sequoia yet. New body, interior and chassis contribute to a dramatic new version of an old favorite.

The 2008 Toyota Sequoia is available in any one of three versions which make owning the 2009 Sequoia within reach of many consumers:

Sequoia SR5
o 2WD 4.7 liter V8 Starting at $34,150 MSRP 14/17 mpg (city/hwy)
o 2WD 5.7 liter V8 Starting at $35,275 MSRP 14/19 mpg (city/hwy)
o 4WD 4.7 liter V8 Starting at $37,375 MSRP 13/16 mpg (city/hwy)
o 4WD 5.7 liter V8 Starting at $38,500 MSRP 13/18 mpg (city/hwy)

Sequoia Limited
o 2WD 4.7 liter V8 Starting at $45,225
o 2WD 5.7 liter V8 Starting at $45,450

Sequoia Platinum
o 2WD 5.7 liter V8 Starting at $52,375 MSRP
o 4WD 5.7 liter V8 Starting at $55,600 MSRP

Of peculiar note,it bears pointing out that in many vehicles in this class achieve better mileage with the larger V8 engines, perhaps a function of efficiently moving this near 3 ton vehicle. In addition, all Sequoia models run on regular gas which will serve as a welcome surprise to unwitting buyers.

Let’s explore some of the some of the other reasons the 2008 Toyota Sequoia is an SUV that merits your consideration.

Drivetrain 9/10

The 2008 Toyota Sequoia’s two engines, the 4.7 liter V8 producing 276 hp and a larger 5.7 liter iForce V8, a more substantial 381 hp,are borrowed from the Tundra. The smaller 4.7 is coupled with the popular 5 speed automatic with its larger sibling, the 6 speed automatic. Both automatic transmissions are electronically controlled and include Uphill/Downhill Shift logic, a common technology that provides optimum shifting of the automatic, given changing driving conditions. Four wheel drive options, also electronically controlled offer the options of 2WD, 4 High and Low gears. I am particularly impressed with the 4.7 liter 5 speed automatic. Shifting is barely noticeable yet responsive, commensurate with a vehicle in this price bracket, much like last years model.

Towing capacity is a respectable 7,800 lbs and 10,000 lbs for the 5.7 liter.

Exterior 9/10

The comprehensive new sheet metal on the 2008 Toyota Sequoia is a welcome change, and long overdue. The look is much like the Tundra, adopting the distinctively rugged look absent on prior models. Clean lines and simple flowing side panels without intrusive looking badging and molding, grace the side views of the 2008 Toyota Sequoia. The Sequoia’s 10 inch ground clearance make the purchase of running boards a viable option for elderly passengers and consumers. Skid plates covering front suspension, fuel tank and transfer case comes standard on all three models making the Sequoia, in 4WD, is a natural for off road adventures, while two wheel drive models are restricted to front suspension skid plates for city road warriors.

The top hinged rear hatch features an lit air dam which diverts rain water and dirt from the rear glass. The rear windshield wiper is woefully small for the area of glass it services, though it provides good field of vision. The A pillar and roof header are aerodynamically designed to enhance performance, and minimize cabin wind noise, which is negligible.

Interior 8/10

The Sequoia’s interior is longer, taller and wider than previous models, making it a more accommodating for taller passengers. Seating has been redesigned to take advantage of the additional cabin space. Leather options are a favorite of mine and Toyota delivers on the luxurious theme here as well. Additional legroom, seat width, adjustability along with options, like second row captains seating, will suit more upscale buyers. Standard second row 40/20/40 seating has fold down access for the third row 60/40 accomodations.

Gone is the peculiar looking instrument pod replaced by a more contemporary looking front dash, accented with metallic paint. I would prefer to have seen Toyota take it up a notch with more luxurious details like wood grain. All instruments are clearly visible to the driver in most seating positions, which is well thought out. Tilt telescoping wheel assures driver comfort and an expected perk. The 14 speaker JBL AM/FM/CD system offers sumptuous sound with XM satellite capability and MP3 ports for your media player of choice.

The Navigation unit is a bit out of reach and its view obstructed. I would prefer to see a more driver friendly, ergonomic placement of this exceptional Navigation system; perhaps a popup.

The three zone air conditioning, with Solar Sensors, helps keep cabin temperatures comfortable for everyone. While Solar Sensors have been a point of contention in prior models, it appears Toyota has gotten past the error 21 issue. Prior Solar Sensor warnings would cause an error message in low lighting; and masked other air conditioning failures, an insignificant but annoying occurrence. Or you simply could use the rear retractable hatch windshield; one of the few in a large SUV.

Safety 8/10

Anti Lock brakes along with traction and skid controls are but the tip of the iceberg of safety features on the 2008 Toyota Sequoia. Full curtain protection and deployment for side impact and rollovers take cabin safety to an industry standard. Curtain protection covers all three rows to supplement front side airbags which is expected by today’s consumer.

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) are offered on 2 wheel drive models with Active Traction Control (ATRAC) available on 4 wheel drive models. NIHS ratings aren’t available for this model at this writing, though I wouldn’t be surprised at good marks when it does get tested.

Driving Impressions 9/10

The 2008 Toyota Sequoia5.7 liter is a bit of a surprise to drive. Acceleration is impressive with passing summoning impressive torque response which is generally passive under 3600 rpm. Four wheel anti-lock brakes perform flawlessly bringing the 2008 Toyota Sequoia to civilized stops. The ride is comforting with independent front and rear suspension control arms, taking a good deal of “truck” out of the ride. Expansion strips are hardly noticeable with bumps amounting to a slight jar and muted thump. On the highway, utilizing the laser controlled Dynamic Cruise Control is a new experience as it senses vehicles and adjusts speed accordingly even maintaining your selected following distance, very nice!

Driving the 2008 Toyota Sequoia has a sportier feel than a lot of other SUV’s this size. Cornering is effortless and refined, making around town driving a joy. On the highway, the 5.7 liter perks up with smooth, steady acceleration and crisp passing unlike many vehicles in this class. It’s not quite car-like, but so much better than many of its competitors in its class. Parking may take a bit of practice, but with the aid of front and rear sensors and optional rearview camera, even the most nervous of drivers will negotiate their way into the closest parallel parking spaces.

Verdict 9/10

While it may seem that SUV’s are a dying breed, I suspect there will continue to be a market for them, as manufacturers scramble to address the fuel economy and credit issues in order to recover market share. The bottom line here is simple; if the gas gauge reads empty, some consumers are more likely to just fill it up, where others are going to have either budget or environmental concerns that accompany that exercise. Either way, this is a vehicle that serves consumers needing to move large families and gear about. Sure you see a lot of them on the highways with just one person in them. Perhaps that’s a social issue that we need to address, but for the purposes of this review, it’s hard not to look at the 2008 Toyota Sequoia as a step up to the next level for this brash eight year old.