The 2017 Toyota Sequoia has a starting price of $45,560 and is available for sale in three trims namely SR5, Limited, and Platinum. It still houses a 381-hp 5.7L V8 engine that has a towing capacity of 7,400 pounds and can achieve the 0-60 MPH sprint time in 6.7 seconds. This old engine returns only 5 MPG combined despite housing a 26.4-gallon fuel tank. But, its strong reliability and low maintenance costs are the key points of the Sequoia.
The interior of the Sequoia is one of the most spacious in its class but uses cheap plastics and has an outdated design. At 120.1 cu-ft., the Sequoia is one of the most practical SUVs in its class. The Sequoia also doesn't come with the latest driver assistance features owing to its old body. In the large SUV segment, there is not much competition. Therefore, the Sequoia faces rivalry from the Ford Expedition, the Chevrolet Tahoe, and the Nissan Armada.
Those attracted to Toyota's reputation for reliability and who need a full-size SUV would likely be happy with the Sequoia- MotorTrend
The proverb 'Don't judge a book by its cover' rightly implies for the Toyota Sequoia as it may have dated looks and interior layout but it offers a spacious and comfortable cabin. Its old, punchy V8 engine drinks more fuel but also satisfies its driver with light off-roading and great acceleration. Due to its age, the Sequoia does not offer many modern safety technologies like its class rivals but still hustles to be a worthy competitor.
Compared to its rivals, the ownership costs of the Sequoia is more. The true cost to own this SUV is nearly $11,540 per year. While its maintenance and repair are on par with its rivals, its fuel costs are significantly higher. On that more, it costs $0.77 for every mile you cover due to its poor fuel efficiency. On the other hand, its reliability is stronger than the Nissan Armada and the Ford Expedition but ranks below the Chevy Tahoe.
2017 Toyota Sequoia Front View
2017 Toyota Sequoia Rear View
Features
7.5/10
The Sequoia provides a reasonable lineup of technology amenities- Carfax
The Toyota Sequoia is sold in the U.S. in the form of three trims- SR5, Limited, and Platinum. The SR5 trim starts at $45,560 while the top-spec Platinum trim is priced at $65,315. A destination fee of $1,295 will be added to the price tag. The Sequoia offers a long list of features segregated into its trims nicely.
2017 Toyota Sequoia side view
For a base trim, the SR5 trim offers a lot of standard features such as 8-way power driver cloth seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, a 6.1-inch touchscreen display paired with an 8-speaker sound system, 18-inch wheels, and many more. There are a few optional packages available that can increase the features list for some extra bucks.
Trim
SR5
Limited
Platinum
MSRP (RWD)
$45,560
$54,350
$62,090
MSRP (4WD)
$48,785
$57,575
$65,315
Key Features
Tri-zone automatic control
Adds/ Upgrades to SR5 trim
Adds/ Upgrades to Limited trim
6.1-inch touchscreen display
Heated front seats
Front ventilated seats
8-speaker sound system
20-inch wheels
Second-row captain chairs
18-inch wheels
Power-folding, auto-dimming exterior mirrors
Adaptive Cruise Control
8-way power driver's seat
Front and rear parking sensors
Second-row center console
A sunroof
Power liftgate.
Power-adjustable steering wheel.
Power rear window
Leather upholstery
14-speaker JBL premium audio system
Rearview camera
Cloth upholstery
We Recommend
Although the base SR5 trim offers more features for its price, we still recommend buying the Limited trim as it is eligible for the optional Safety and Convenience package that adds blind-spot monitoring and lane change assist for $1,005. This trim adds heated front leather seats and a power tailgate.
One of the best features offered in Toyota's full-size Sequoia SUV for 2017 is its strong and quiet 5.7-liter V8 engine- Kelly Blue Book
2017 Toyota Sequoia Engine and Transmission
The Toyota Sequoia is powered by a 5.7L V8 engine that produces 381 hp and 401 lb-ft. of torque. That's a bit more power and torque than most of the competitors. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and is available in both RWD and 4WD configurations.
This engine is relatively old and hence, you won't find any modern technologies such as cylinder deactivation. It's a very truckish engine and a bit unrefined. When you put your foot down, the engine makes a typical V8 noise. With a higher rev, the engine feels a bit grainy but it still makes great power.
Models
2017 Toyota Sequoia
2017 Nissan Armada
2017 Chevrolet Tahoe
2017 Ford Expedition
MSRP
$45,560
$44,900
$47,215
$47,125
Engine
5.7L V8
5.6L V8
5.3L V8
3.5L V6
Drivetrain
RWD
RWD
RWD
RWD
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic
7-Speed Automatic
6-Speed Automatic
6-Speed Automatic
Power
381 hp @ 5,600 RPM
390 hp @ 5,800 RPM
355 hp @ 5,600 RPM
365 hp @ 5,000 RPM
Torque
401 lb-ft. @ 3,600 RPM
394 lb-ft. @ 4,000 RPM
383 lb-ft. @ 4,100 RPM
420 lb-ft, @ 2,250 RPM
Making 9 horses more than the Sequoia, the Nissan Armada lands first place on the table. The Ford Expedition is comparatively costlier than the Sequoia but makes 16 horses less than the Sequoia. The Chevrolet Tahoe is the least powerful SUV in this competition, making just 355 horses. Moreover, it is an expensive option as well.
2017 Toyota Sequoia Acceleration
The Toyota Sequoia covers the 0-60 MPH test in just 6.7 seconds despite being one of the heaviest entries in this segment. It further races to complete a quarter of a mile in 15.4 seconds and tops at 120 MPH. Although it carries an old engine, the Sequoia is still able to challenge many of its segment rivals in terms of performance.
2017 Toyota Sequoia takes 6.7 sec to reach 60 MPH
On the road, the Sequoia feels a bit sluggish until you get the revs up but the noise levels are fine at high speeds. The automatic transmission shifts a little bit on the slower side but still, it's refined. The transmission could use two more gears to take advantage of that powerband. Once it crosses 5,000 RPM, the engine feels unrefined at that point.
Models
2017 Toyota Sequoia
2017 Nissan Armada
2017 Chevrolet Tahoe
2017 Ford Expedition
0-60 MPH
6.7 sec
6.3 sec
7.2 sec
7.0 sec
Quarter mile
15.4 sec
14.9 sec
15.5 sec
15.2 sec
Engine
5.7L
5.6L
5.3L
3.5L
Top Speed
120 MPH
120 MPH
120 MPH
120 MPH
The Nissan Armada is the fastest SUV in this competition thanks to its powerful engine. The Sequoia manages to accelerate quicker but due to its added curb weight, it loses its pace in the long run. The Ford Expedition performs decently in both performance tests despite making less power than the Sequoia. The Chevrolet Tahoe is the slowest SUV here.
2017 Toyota Sequoia Braking
The Toyota Sequoia doesn't perform quite well in this field. In the brake test, it takes 130 feet to decelerate from 60-0 MPH, which is more for a large SUV. Considering its heavy curb weight, the Sequoia's long braking distance is understandable. It is fitted with 13.9-inch discs at the front and 13.6-inch discs at the rear, both ventilated.
2017 Toyota Sequoia brakes
Surprisingly, the brakes are quite responsive. The pedal feels soft and there is no much resistance, though the brakes fade a bit after repeated use. Due to the age of this vehicle, the Sequoia doesn't get any modern braking technologies like automatic emergency braking. But, these brakes are strong enough and you can rely on them.
Models
2017 Toyota Sequoia
2017 Nissan Armada
2017 Chevrolet Tahoe
2017 Ford Expedition
Brake Front
13.9 in
13.8 in
13.0 in
13.5 in
Brake Rear
13.6 in
13.8 in
13.6 in
13.2 in
Curb Weight
5,730 lbs
5,672 lbs
5,356 lbs
5,562 lbs
60-0 MPH
130 ft.
128 ft.
125 ft.
121 ft.
The Ford Expedition shocks everyone with its braking capabilities. On the other hand, the Chevrolet Tahoe takes more braking distance than the Expedition despite weighing less. The Nissan Armada's braking distance is decent for its size and the same goes for the Sequoia too. However, if the Sequoia also gets some breaking technologies, we expect a shorter braking distance.
2017 Toyota Sequoia Ride and Handling
Handling in the Sequoia feels is not great due to its size. As it weighs more than 5,700 pounds, highway ramps or curves will not be your friend in the Sequoia. Around the corners, the Sequoia feels like it's going to tip over so you might want to go slow in the turns. Also, there's a significant amount of body roll in this vehicle. The steering is so numb, light and it's very slow to turn as well.
2017 Toyota Sequoia side driving review
Due to its sheer size, it can be quite challenging while parking at tight spots. Driving the Sequoia will bring the big old truckish feel. The suspension is a bit on the floatier side although you can adjust the shock dampers. The Platinum trim comes with a rear air suspension that helps to offer a smooth ride. Moreover, the Sequoia is also a light off-roader thanks to the limited-slip center differential.
2017 Toyota Sequoia Towing Capacity
If you need an SUV with good towing capabilities, the Toyota Sequoia is not a good choice. When properly equipped, the Sequoia can tow up to 7,400 pounds, which is average for a large SUV. It does not offer any additional towing packages, unlike its competitors.
Models
2017 Toyota Sequoia
2017 Nissan Armada
2017 Chevrolet Tahoe
2017 Ford Expedition
Towing Capacity
7,400 lbs
8,500 lbs
8,600 lbs
9,200 lbs
The Ford Expedition is the champion in terms of towing capacity as its towing capacity is rated at 9,200 lbs. The Chevrolet Tahoe has a decent tow rating for its size while the Nissan Armada is down by just 100 pounds difference. The Sequoia offers the least towing capacity.
At 15 mpg combined, the Sequoia is well off the mark of more modern rivals- The Car Connection
People who want to save money from fuel costs should steer away from it as the Toyota Sequoia is the least fuel-efficient in its class. According to the EPA, the Sequoia returns 13 MPG in the city, 17 MPG on a highway, and 15 MPG combined. Adding the optional 4WD reduces the combined fuel economy by about 1 MPG, but the city and highway estimates remain the same, which is impressive.
2017 Toyota Sequoia three-quarter view
The Sequoia can run on both regular gas and flex-fuel, the latter offered in only 4WD models. A fuel tank capacity of 26.4 gallons is fitted in the Sequoia. Thanks to this large tank, it can deliver 396 miles of combined range, both in RWD and 4WD models. Even the flex-fuel models also offer the same combined range. These MPG figures and range are really less but considering the power it makes, it justifies.
Models
2017 Toyota Sequoia
2017 Nissan Armada
2017 Chevrolet Tahoe
2017 Ford Expedition
MPG (City)
13
14
16
15
MPG (Highway)
17
19
23
21
MPG (Combined)
15
16
19
18
Fuel Tank Capacity (Gallons)
26.4
26.0
26.0
28.0
Range (City/Highway/Combined; Miles)
343/449/396
364/494/429
416/598/507
420/588/504
The efficiency of the Chevrolet Tahoe is somewhat better than the rest of the bunch due to its light curb weight. The large fuel tank of the Ford Expedition helps it to return better fuel estimates and driving range than the Nissan Armada. With just 15 MPG combined, the Sequoia stands behind its rivals.
The 2017 Toyota Sequoia fails to impress with its boring cabin design- Cars.USNews
2017 Toyota Sequoia Seating and Comfort
The Toyota Sequoia is an 8-seater SUV but opting for the second-row captain chairs decreases the seating capacity to seven. Cloth upholstery is standard on the SR5 trim but higher models get leather-trimmed seats. The front seats are comfortable but the seat bottoms are a bit firm. They are also power-adjustable while the Limited and Platinum also get power-adjustable lumbar support with heated functions. The top-end Platinum trim gets a power-adjustable steering wheel which helps to get a comfortable driving position.
2017 Toyota Sequoia dashboard
Even the rear seats are comfortable and soft. Getting into the third row is very easy and with the captain chairs equipped, it is easier as they slide and recline a very good amount. The head and legroom in the first two rows can accommodate tall passengers and even the third row is adult-friendly. However, the material quality is very disappointing. The dashboard and most interior surfaces are composed of hard plastics. The overall interior layout is bit outdated too.
Models
2017 Toyota Sequoia
2017 Nissan Armada
2017 Chevrolet Tahoe
2017 Ford Expedition
Passenger Capacity
8
8
8
8
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)
34.8/66.4/42.5
40.9/63.8/41.9
42.8/64.8/45.3
39.6/63.2/43.0
Second Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) in)
34.9/65.6/40.9
40.0/63.4/41.0
38.7/65.1/39.0
39.8/63.7/39.1
Third Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)
34.5/65.7/35.3
36.4/60.5/28.3
38.1/62.6/24.8
38.3/51.9/37.7
The Ford Expedition offers the most space in the third row and is the best SUV for tall passengers. The Chevrolet Tahoe offers a great deal of space in the first two rows while its third row is quite disappointing. The Nissan Armada offers slightly more headroom in the third row but its legroom is still not suitable for seating adults.
2017 Toyota Sequoia Infotainment System
Every Sequoia has an outdated 6.1-inch high-resolution touchscreen that functions on the Entune infotainment system. Sadly, smartphone integration is still not offered in the Sequoia. While its rivals have removed the single-disc CD player, the Sequoia still provides this feature. A navigation system is also included from the Limited trim onwards. The touchscreen is responsive but sometimes it can be irritating while using the small virtual buttons.
2017 Toyota Sequoia infotainment system
Sound duties are handles by 8 speakers standard on the SR5 and Limited trims. A 14-speaker JBL premium audio system is standard on the Platinum trim but can be availed on lower models for $745. This system can be set to have a customizable home screen. A blu-ray rear-seat entertainment system is standard on the Platinum trim and available on the other two trims for $1,900. The screen measures 9 inches wide and has high resolution.
2017 Toyota Sequoia Interior Features
The main cabin highlights of the Sequoia are:
Power tilt & telescopic multi-function leather steering wheel
Cloth & leather upholstery
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Dual illuminating vanity mirrors
Tri-zone automatic climate control
Power front seats with heated function
Remote trunk release
115V rear power outlet
6.1-inch touchscreen display
14-speaker JBL premium audio system
SiriusXM
Voice recognition audio system
2017 Toyota Sequoia Cargo Space
The Toyota Sequoia is one of the most practical SUVs in its segment. You get 18.9 cu-ft. behind the third row, 66.6 cu-ft. behind the second row and a maximum cargo capacity of 120.1 cu-ft., with the second-row folded. The third-row seats are power folded in the Limited and Platinum models. All the seats fold flat which is really good for storing long items.
2017 Toyota Sequoia cargo capacity
With so much space available, this SUV is a perfect choice if you are planning a road trip. It can easily store more than 10 large roller bags. A power tailgate is offered only on the Limited and Platinum models. If you'll lift up the load floor, you'll find additional storage space. And if you need more space to carry long items, there is a roof rack standard on every Sequoia.
Models
2017 Toyota Sequoia
2017 Nissan Armada
2017 Chevrolet Tahoe
2017 Ford Expedition
Cargo Capacity (cu-ft.)
18.9
16.5
15.3
18.6
With 120.1 cu-ft. of cargo space, the Sequoia stays at the top of the table. Only the Ford Expedition's cargo capacity is the closest to the Sequoia with 108.3 cu-ft., which is not that bad for a large SUV. The Nissan Armada offers only 95.1 cu-ft. of maximum cargo space while the Chevrolet Tahoe is a bad choice for those who favor practicality as only 94.7 cu-ft. with seat area is available.
Big and brawny, the Sequoia's rounded-off body could be nothing other than a truck-based SUV- The Car Connection
2017 Toyota Sequoia Dimension and Weight
The Toyota Sequoia is the oldest vehicle in its class and that can be proved by its exterior styling. Upfrnt, the grille is mettalic with chrome surround. There is no LED lighting provided anywhere on the vehicle. You get projector-beam headlights with fog lamps on the lower fascia. The base SR5 model sits on 18-inch wheels while the Limited and Platinum trims settle for 20-inch alloy wheels. With an extraordinary high ground clearance of 9.9 inches, the Sequoia can be a perfect SUV for off-road ventures. The gap between the wheels and the arches is also more.
2017 Toyota Sequoia front angle view
The SR5 and Limited models ride on the double-wishbone front suspension and an independent wishbone rear suspension while the Platinum trim gains an adaptive variable suspension and a rear air suspension. The double-wishbone suspension is provided for improving ride comfort where the air suspension reduces the harshness in ride quality. Unlike most of its competitors, the Sequoia does not have an extended wheelbase version. The rear of the Sequoia is masculine as well. There is a chrome strip engraved on the Limited and Platinum models.
Models
2017 Toyota Sequoia
2017 Nissan Armada
2017 Chevrolet Tahoe
2017 Ford Expedition
Curb Weight (lbs)
5,730
5,672
5,356
5,562
Length (in)
205.1
208.9
204.0
206.0
Width (in)
79.9
79.9
80.5
78.8
Height (in)
77.0
75.8
74.4
77.2
Ground Clearance (in)
9.9
9.2
7.9
8.3
Wheelbase (in)
122.0
121.1
116.0
119.0
Track Width (in) F/R
67.9/69.1
67.5/67.9
68.7/68.7
67.0/67.2
The Chevrolet Tahoe has the shortest wheelbase in this class and hence, its rear-seat space is cramped. At 208.9 inches, the Nissan Armada is the longest vehicle here. But, parking this vehicle at tight parking spots can be a challenging task. The Ford Expedition's overall width measures 78.8 inches which is the least among its rivals. This affects the shoulder room in the interior.
2017 Toyota Sequoia Exterior Features
Some of the exterior features of the Sequoia are:
Halogen headlights with cleaners
DRLs
Front fog lights
Exterior entry lights
Door courtesy lights
Power-folding, auto-dimming exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals
The upscale Platinum trim touts adaptive cruise control and a blind-spot monitoring system- Autotrader
The Toyota Sequoia was only crash-tested by NHTSA and that too was just the rollover crash test while IIHS neglected to test its crashworthiness. In the rollover crash test, the Sequoia secured four out of five stars. Due to the absence of the safety ratings, we cannot comment on the safety of the Sequoia.
2017 Toyota Sequoia front angle view
Not just the safety ratings, even the latest safety technologies are missing in the Sequoia. Compared to its rivals, the Sequoia is a lot behind in this field. What's good is that eight airbags are provided that can prevent the risk of severe injuries during a collision. Below is a list of safety features available in the Sequoia.
The Nissan Armada is the cheapest offering in this segment. It makes slightly more power than the Sequoia but due to its light curb weight, it manages to accelerate quicker. The Armada overtakes the Sequoia by offering class-leading fuel efficiency and towing capacity. However, its cabin offers significantly less third-row space and overall cargo capacity. The Armada was also not crash-tested but it offers a long list of driver-assist features.
2017 Nissan Armada
2017 Toyota Sequoia vs 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe
Starting at $47,215, the Chevrolet Tahoe has a high initial price in its class. Sadly, it makes the least power, and therefore, its performance stats are slowest among its class rivals. However, its tow ratings and fuel ratings are better than the Sequoia. On the inside, the Tahoe offers the least legroom in the third row while its overall cargo volume is the worst in this segment. Along with good NHTSA ratings, the Tahoe also packs decent safety techs.
2017 Chevrolet Tahoe
2017 Toyota Sequoia vs 2017 Ford Expedition
The Ford Expedition is around $1,565 costlier than the Sequoia. With 16 horsepower less than the Sequia, the Expedition's acceleration is slightly slower. But this engine is known for its towing capacity while its large fuel tank contributes to better fuel economy. The Expedition offers the best passenger space in the third row but it cannot beat the Sequoia in terms of cargo capacity. With regards to safety, the Expedition earned decent ratings but the safety tech offered is very few.
2017 Ford Expedition
Final Verdict
The Toyota Sequoia is a large SUV known for its practicality and grunty V8 engine. Due to its old body, dated looks, and lack of the latest driver aids, it is not among the top players in its class. But, compared to its rivals, the Sequoia is expected to hold its value better over time thanks to its strong reliability. Therefore, if you are looking for an SUV with decent passenger space for your family and a punchier performance from the V8, look for the Toyota Sequoia.
