"Sequoia is a true SUV!!! Sequoia is the best SUV money can buy, because it's the most reliable and people will never have an issue with turbos because there's none, and people will never have carbon build up because it doesn't have direct injection like competitors. It's not rice burner with turbo. It's not a Prius with Auto start/stop. It's not a iPhone on wheels that needs to reset by the dealer every 6 months and replaced every couple years because of the issues. It's reliable SUV that can go 500k miles without touching engine or transmission. Also, it's simple, reliable, comfortable and holds it's value better than any other SUV. Great on gas for its size. I have one and love it."
I just purchased a 2018 Toyota Sequoia 4x4 Platinum, pearl white paint, and red rock interior. I have owned the following Toyota 4x4’s, T-100, Tacoma, FJ Cruiser and two 4Runners… So far, I’m loving the Sequoia… These are some of the favorite things I like about the new Sequoia: The interior is 120 cubic feet… This is a lot more than our 4Runner, but less than the Land Cruiser… The 3rd row seat can be split (left/right) and it is electrically operated up and down… With the 3rd row up you still have more than enough room for weekly groceries… You can open and close the rear hatch with your remote key or with a switch inside the car… Very easy to operate the electric 3rd row… The 2nd row has a 110 VAC outlet that automatically comes on when you start the car unlike our 4 Runner Limited… The Dynamic Cruise is very quick to respond, almost too quick… I like it better than our Honda Accord which seems slow to respond… The visibility is outstanding with Huge side mirrors and forward visibility is excellent… The seats are comfortable and are ventilated and heated… The turn rate on this SUV is outstanding which was surprising… The middle and 3rd row have pull down shades which really helps cut down interior heat when parked in the sun… We plan to only tint the rear window and keep the side windows with factory tint… Leg room for the 2nd and 3rd row is a lot more than expected since our previous SUV was a 4 runner limited… The red rock leather interior makes the seats a lot cooler during the summer months… The car is very quiet at highway speeds… The electric folding mirrors are very useful when in a tight parking area… When you put the SUV in reverse you can adjust both side mirrors down to a perfect angle for backing up and when you put the car back into drive, they automatically adjust back to where you had them originally… The cool thing is the next time you put it in reverse, they go exactly to how you set them manually… The cross traffic radar works perfectly when you are backing out in traffic, very nice… I love the numerous storage compartments hidden all over the car and they are located in just about every place you can imagine… They also have a ton of cupholders two on each driver and front passenger doors and three in-between… Towing is up to 7200 pounds which is outstanding for our needs… The grandkids haven’t tested out the blue-ray DVD yet, but I’m sure it works good too… Some things I don’t like about the Sequoia are the gas mileage which is about 13 city and 17 highway which is about 3 mpg less than our 4Runner, but tolerable when you consider the comfort and utility… My wife and I are tall, but it does take some getting use to getting in and out of the SUV… Her technique is to grab one of the two grab handles inside the passenger door, step up to the side rails and then swing inside… I can get in and out without using the side rail, but I’m 6’1” tall… The Platinum does not have keyless entry which is almost unbelievable considering our 2013 4Runner had it and a top end Sequoia Platinum does not… The Sequoia does not have remote engine start as does my old 2011 Suburban… I just assumed the Platinum would have remote start for hot and cold weather climates… The Sequoia does not light up automatically when you approach it at night like our old 4 Runner either… The lack of USB or Cig Lighter adapters was a real shock too for the 2nd row… The 110VAC makes up for the 2nd row, but not having even a cigarette lighter was not good… The passenger glovebox is too small… It was difficult to get our papers in it and seemed smaller than our old SUV… The front parking sensors are offset from facing directly forward, so when you are slowly moving forward it seemed not to detect directly in front very well, but to the side it picks up everything… The gas tank is only 26.4 Gallons and just wish it was the same as the Tundra which is up to 38 gallons… This would give the Sequoia a much needed boost in range (>500 mile vice only 400)… The side mirrors do not automatically fold in when you turn the car off… I usually fold them and after I shut the key off, I select open so the next time someone starts the car they will open up when you turn the key on… The Sequoia does not have AWD unlike our 4-Runner Limited… This car requires you to shift into 4X4 at speeds less than 62mph for 4x4 high and stopped in Neutral for 4x4 Low… The front ventilated seats seems barely noticeable when on max cool, but the AC unit worked well in cooling the cabin off… The dynamic cruise control gets a little confused when going around a curve it detects adjacent traffic out of lane as a conflict and slows down and I have never noticed this with using the same technology in the Honda Accord… If I could talk to a Toyota Designer / Engineer about the Sequoia, I would ask them for AWD, a larger Tundra sized gas tank (38 vice 26.4), Keyless Entry, remind them about the lack of having a Keyless Entry and leave the conversation by letting the Engineer know their Platinum model needs a keyless entry… I hope Toyota realizes they forgot to include keyless entry on their top Sequoia model?? But other than that, we love this new SUV…
Wow - thanks for providing all of your feedback. You picked up on some of the same things I did. TONS of cupholders, plenty of cargo space, great legroom. And I didn't even talk much about the drive. I think the choice for 4x4 vs. AWD is that some people take this into rugged terrain (I actually did get stuck in the mud filming this video). As far as I know, there is no major redesign planned for the Sequoia so unfortunately that keyless entry is something that people will have to live with for years to come. As well as that dismal gas mileage. But most people at least know what they're getting into when they buy a beast like this!
It does have a remote starter. I had no idea until I read another comment on another video. If you click the lock button on the fob 2 times and then on the 3rd click hold it down, it will start. Hope this is helps!
We love ours. We didn’t buy it for fuel economy. It hasn’t been bad with gas under 2.50 since we bought it new in 2014. Gas is 1.35 at Costco today due to the pandemic. My wife drives our kids around in it and she loves it. I also do all the maintenance myself since it is and older platform design not needing to Reset the computer by the dealer after touching anything.
@@Whowhatwhen3 still going just fine. We also paid it off already so we own all our vehicles outright. Gas is 3.99 here and has settled there for a couple weeks, and has been averaging 3.25 for a year before the war. We’re in MN. My wife just puts gas in it and goes. Gas is not our biggest spend so this increase isn’t a huge hit. The increase isn’t painful (maybe additional $20-40 a week) in our spending, which is eclipsed with daycare and school tuition ($2,000 month), along with mortgage, grocery, utilities, etc. We also have two Honda accords as well for times when we aren’t with the kids or hauling the dogs and a boat. She drives one and I own the other and use it as my daily. Both accords are great on gas.
I really like your review. You provide a parent's perspective very well which is kinda important if I'm looking for a family car. Other reviews mostly repeats what is already on the specification on Toyota's website but you talk about (and show) the practical stuff that helped me to imagine what it will be like to carry my family with this SUV. Thanks!
My dad loves his Platinum. I was confused about the actual key use instead of push button but no big deal. I’m so glad he has a safe vehicle! I’ve driven and ridden in it. Very nice!
Outstanding presentation in lieu of an engine compartment segment. Very well articulated and harvested from a personal perspective. Superseding videos are duly warranted and will be much appreciated. Thank You.
Thanks for checking it out! I don’t really cover the engine much because mechanics aren’t my thing. I do try to talk about aspects like horsepower, fuel economy, and other aspects of driveability.
I love my Sequoia! No other SUV is worth it! The price is perfect I have a SR5 4x4 2014...obviously if you will travel you have to look into roof racks and all...we do costco trips w/no problems I have always had 4 carseats and fit 2 single Bob strollers! Never did it cross my mind to buy a Ford or Chevy or a GMC just for the room! I want quality and reliability! And Toyota is the only one to give it to you! And a keyless key! Is a deal breaker come on! I want to see you once it dies out! Like on Any car you have to replace it after a yr. Or so....we keep telling everyone Sequoia is the only way to go! I guess it's just a few of us that truly know how it is to drive quality! We have traveled to Arizona, Vegas and to many parts of Mexico from SD w/no problem carrying all that we need...people need to learn how to take their time and organize them selves....love my Sequoia! It feels nice to see only a hand full on the road...we are few but proud owners of our SUV!
Agree on the lights. Though, I think they are connected to the same current-monitored circuit design found in the power ports. They actually meter the number of mAH's consumed, and after a set amount, they automatically shut off to prevent the battery from draining down. I'm not sure if that really is the case (my brother, who is an EE said it is the case on his 2006 Sequoia), but even if it is, it's still no substitute for a master switch or reset. Hate having to crawl in the back to shut off lights kids left on.
There is a master switch for the lights. It’s located by the power mirror controls. And I believe the sun shades are standard, or at least come with the Limited. Great video! I’m hoping to purchase a Sequoia soon!!
I have a 2007 Sequoia and LOVE it, looks like I'm gonna need an upgrade though!!! Mine has the key tooo..... that skinny long one looks like LAPTOP compartment!! Great review, as usual Fadra!
There's NO WAY you're fitting a laptop in there. It's long and skinny but shallow. I'm so confused!!! This Sequoia would be an upgrade from most vehicles!!! Thanks for watching!
I have the 2018 TRD Sequoia with the black leather seats and navigation. The handling is so good with the upgraded shocks and sway bars, taking turns at high speeds, quick lane switching, I forget that I'm in a large SUV and not a 2 door coupe. The features like auto high-beams, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, all useful when I took my long road trips. I thought about getting Platinum, but I saved about $15,000 going with the TRD model because I like black interior and better handling, the kids have portable DVD players so I could do without the roof mounted player. I couldn't justify the extra money for having a roof mounted player and airbag rear shocks. I'm coming from a 2012 4Runner Limited which had the keyless option, but after a week it stopped bothering me. If you ever had the need for more power you can slap on the supercharger designed for the Tundra's, but I find this Sequoia perfect the way it is.
A 2 door coupe? You must be an awesome driver! Although I will say it felt like it took up less space than other similarly sized SUVs in the same class. I totally respect your TRD choice as well. I just hope you take it off road once in a while 😁
One word for this reviewer RELIABILITY ! It's all we,the consumers, want. It's this SUV RELIABLE? DUH do babies eat baby food? It's a Toyota which is synonymous with one word RELIABILITY.
Beautiful car, I absolutely love it. And it's an extremely economical choice compared to the Land Cruiser. The problem is the MPG, which is ATROCIOUS. I would go for the Highlander Hybrid. _Almost_ as much room and nearly *DOUBLE the MPG.* If you REALLY need this car for off road or country road driving, or you will FREQUENTLY be using ALL of the seats, that would make sense, but for running around town solo, this (type of large SUV) is not a responsible choice. Great review, though. Thanks!
I agree with you on many points. The Highlander Hybrid is a great (but also expensive) vehicle. What I’m finding from my readers is that this is a good family vehicle for people with a lot of kids. Like, FIVE kids. For families like that, they focus simply on a vehicle to fit their family and don’t really see many options for MPG in that range.
And those are great points you make as well. (Although the Sequoia (NON Platinum) starts at around $48,000 this Platinum one's over $65,000, but the Highlander Hybrid starts around $36,000.) The new Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid Minivan is another fairly practical choice even for large families. I just think that even with big families, EVERYONE needs to look at doing the very best they can to help the Environment. Of course there will be some areas where they can't make the best choice for being green, possibly for economic reasons, but I believe we should all strive to wherever we can. Thanks :)
Have you seen my Pacifica review? I loved that minivan - and I'm not a minivan lover! My only issue with the plug-in hybrid is that you lose the stow & go seats in the middle because, hey, that battery has to go somewhere! And I agree. If everyone makes a difference where they can, it makes a big difference!
This SUV is not for large familes, with four kids, there are no room for anything in the back for long trips or just going to the store. Legroom is great. Toyota needs to a XL model. Getting the Expedition Max, waayyyy better
I'm going to disagree. This won't hold large suitcases for a large families but it has ample space for general errands or even sports equipment even with all the seats up.
The Ford will need AAA as well as hope you pay cash for the Ford, if not you will Be way upside down when you trade in. Resale is a flat steaming dumpster on Fords.
You forgot to show that the 3rd row also has power recline as well. As for price, this is in direct competition with the Yukon, Tahoe, QX80 etc. All those vehicles are 70+ for their top of the line models.
Yep, I'd buy one. I really like her review, it's honest from someone who will actually tell you the reality of what it does from someone who will actually use this kind of car. A Mom!
This is my second sequoia 2019 MSRP 68,700 . With rebate and discount I bought it for $59,000. I have owned Armada and expedition . Test drove 19 tahoe, surbaban and new expedition and it drove well but i decided to buy another sequoia even though i had to go back using KEY . I have football kids and sequoia has way more spaces then other suvs . Most importantly its smooth ride .
Thanks for the review, I'd don't care about push button start but do you have to push the clicker to open the doors? We're used to Ford's keypad entry where you can open the doors without finding your keys or even being able to leave your keys in the car if needed. Super helpful with an armful of kids.
That's a great question. From what I recall (I drove this a few months ago), you DO have to unlock the doors with the key fob. I've gotten used to cars that unlock based on proximity so anytime I have to have a key in hand, it's an inconvenience.
Must've been your first time in a Sequoia. They've had all that in the platinum since 2008. And that outlet is NOT exclusive to the platinum. Also, under that outlet there are 2 more cup holders for a total of 8 in the second row. If you flip the second row console over as you had done and put all the seats down it's flat from the back door to the back of the front seats. Moving the second row seats is a one hand operation. Just pull the black clip on the top of the seat and it'll slide forward.
Great video. I stumbled upon this while researching the Sequoia. While I wouldn't mind having the latest, newest version, I've found a 2011 Limited 4WD for about $17k cash. Granted, it has high miles (170k), but it's a Toyota. And I cannot see spending 3x that just to get the new car smell and the handful of new features. The 2011 and the 2018 are still considered the same generation, too. I appreciate your work in putting this video and review together.
Eric - I'd be scared of 170k miles but if the previous owner has maintained it, you could be good to go. Definitely same generation but there are new features (safety included). However, I applaud your frugality!
Believe it or not, I used to be of the same mindset - there was enough value in a new car (warranty, less 'ewww' factor, etc) to justify the full un-depreciated expense. And, our family could certainly afford to purchase new (even w/o going into debt). But, after having owned my 2007 Tundra (as the original owner) and putting 150k miles on it, I see that the quality is just bullet-proof. I've literally had ZERO issues with it. And, while it has some self-inflicted cosmetic blemishes, it still runs and sounds like new. Not a drop of oil, no rust, no rattles. Sure, it doesn't have the latest widgets, but I've also added so many customized things (android stereo, dash cameras, air horns, light bar, driveshaft coupler for towing behind RV, etc) that it's like an old pair of jeans. The "new to me" Sequoia has no blemishes, and everything looks brand new. I have very high confidence that it will provide me the same level of quality - and if it does start having issues, I'm mechanically inclined enough to at least attempt fixing it myself. Given all that, I could not see spending 3x for a truly new vehicle.
@@ericc1214 sir I hope you see this. I just bought a 2012 platinum 4wd black/redrock with 20” kmc wheels and a 4” corsa exhaust. 259,000 miles. Had it gone through by lexus they found a dead visor bulb…..paid 15,000 and I couldn’t be happier!
I actually prefer the key 🔑 instead of the keyless pushtostart feature, primarily because it’s electrical. When that button decides to not work, there’s another repair bill 💵
I don’t want push button start. I’m fine with a key. I do however like keyless entry. It needs a better infotainment center (Ram, Jeep, dodge appears to be the best) and better MPG from the 5.7. I love it though. If I don’t get an Land Cruiser then I’ll get this next.
So obviously fuel efficiency isn't high up on your list 😂 I'm hoping to review a Land Cruiser if possible but I'm totally spoiled with push button start!
Heated steering wheell for that sticker price is a must as is key-less ignition. And you're also correct that the center knobs are too far away for some folks. Surprised by that because most Japanese are short and of course Toyota is a Japanese entity.
Yes, I think they should have shoved a heated steering wheel in there even without a full redesign. But you really had me thinking... Sequoia is Japanese-designed but built in the United States. I was wondering if it's even an available model in Japan and here's what I found out: "As of 2017, the Sequoia is sold in Bahrain, Canada, Costa Rica, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United States (all regions) and Yemen in LHD only." Maybe that explains it?
Sequoia is built and designed for only north America. is the result of a Japanese Toyota engineer living in United States with an American family for one year. And so learning the family he designed this specifically for American family needs. so this is fully developed in America and Until recently was not available anywhere else now it is available in the Middle East this is Toyotas biggest SUV , bigger than the Land Cruiser
Why are you going for an off-road SUV. If you are not doing off-roads, you might as well consider a crossover like the Toyota Highlander- could better suit your needs. It's cheaper, it's more fuel efficient and it has a hybrid trim too.
For 2018, most of the changes included the addition of safety technology like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Auto High Beams (AHB), and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). Everything else is cosmetic - like LED lights and a new grille. I think people want an overhaul with new design and more efficient mechanics.
This is a lovely vehicle and on the cards for our growing family. We want to opt for the Platinum trim. Is there a way to get it with a second row bench?
Im amazed a lots of compartment in it $68,000 is expensive and they didn't even have at least one outlet in 3rd row seats. The back compartment is small...
Both are great and popular vehicles. I feel like the Sequoia gives you a little more versatility (and masculinity!) but it does come with a higher price tag!
Don't get the sienna. At least get a similar sized crossover instead of a SUV. Mom just bought a fullyload qx60 2017 9k miles for 40k. Just sold her 06 sequoia for 11k with 110k miles. I love Toyota but I wouldn't buy this either. This model has been made since 2008. It's a 10 year old truck based on the last tundra. The new tundra has been out which means the sequoia is about to be updated %99 sure by next year. This interior was nice 10 years ago but feels very cheap compared to a Armada. Whatever you do don't buy a minivan. A crossover is much better
Mario L, speak for yourself. Sienna is a superior vehicle in all phases, adequate acceleration/power, ample gas mileage, massive room, consistent dependability, low maintenance, good looks, comfort, the only minivan possessing an AWD option, superior resale value and durability. Toyota supersedes any other inferior manufacturer. Especially, the subservient entities your novice person previously mentioned.
Dicky Ball Toyota is my favorite brand. Idk why a sienna over a Highlander at least. A Highlander is much nicer . Lexus is accually my fave but that's Toyota.
Fadra Nally More insight? Sure. Actually research and learn about a vehicle before you do a review. And as previously stated, learn the English language.
Fadra, this car is on its 17th year cycle run. Keyless is unavailable because this platform and generation is ancient. It only has gone minor cosmetic changes. Its a shame, we hope for a new generation and updated car.
I picked up on that when I felt like it was missing some of the more modern amenities like USB ports and keyless ignition. Then again, I reviewed the GMC Sierra Denali (which is a new design) and then still have KEYED ignition.
we went with the limited instead. We were unable to put a mattress in with the rear passengers center console in the way. Other than that it is a really nice SUV.
Great review. When you showed the rear cargo you needed to flip the rear center console open like you did when showing the little table. This creates a flat load floor. You can load a sheet of plywood in there. I have a 2017 and sorry I WANT a key. I want to be able to hop in roll the key forward and put the truck in neutral to roll down my driveway. I guess its a subjective thing. I have a 17 Platnium and its great. It was cheaper than equally equipped GM's and Fords. I was seriously after a Tahoe but I just wanted a bit more torque than the 5.3L offered and to get the 6.2L in the Denali was way over the top price wise. Ford only offers the EcoBoost in the Expedition and towing Economy is a joke. Plus the EcoBoost has too many issues. I have 3 kids even if Ford fixed everything for free I can't have a vehicle at the dealership its too much hassle. In the end I got everything I needed for a big family with 2 dogs and my 6000+lb travel trailer with the best reliability on the market. Other may argue but no keyless ignition, no turbo, no direct injection, no infotainment and no driver assist = reliability
Oh, good point about opening the center console in the back. That makes more sense than using it as a gaming or snack table for kids in the back! As for the key, I find it an annoyance because I'm so used to NOT needing a key but I got over it pretty quickly.
There are quite a few things that definitely *do* need updating. I never use remote start so I didn't even think about it. It's probably one of those things that once you have it, you never want to be without it!
$68,000! In 2008 the top-of-the-line Sequoia cost $53,000. It's the exact same engine same & body on frame construction and dash. Toyota moves very slowly while the glaciers in Alaska have managed to move faster than this company.
I'm not gonna lie. I didn't love the price either. And maybe they haven't changed because people still LOVE this vehicle. My Facebook fans had a LOT to say about the Sequoia!
Luckily, Toyota continued with the 2018 model year. They were deciding whether to continue with the Sequoia, or discontinue it. Toyota didn't want to dump a load of budget on an unsure thing, so they slightly tweaked it. Unfortunately, it doesn't have the high sale numbers as compared to the GM and Ford full size SUV lines. I own a 2013 Sequoia Platinum, because I am an independent auto tech who works on many different makes and models. No other full size SUVs are remotely close to the durability, and reliability of the Sequoia. I spend all week working on late model unreliable junk from other brands, I don't want to spend my weekends off working on my own vehicle. I cringe when all of the sports moms show off their new $70k Suburban, and they expect an excited reaction. I'm thinking in my head, "Wait until the warranty runs out, and you have to spend $15k extra over the life of it on non-maintenance problems".
Gary Fontenot I agree with you about the reliability. I've owned many Toyotas, Mazda now I'm back in a "Toyota" - Lexus RX 350. Sometimes Toyota has a habit of shooting themselves in the foot for not updating their models for decades. Then they wonder why their sales figures continue to plummet when nothing has been completely redone for 17 years. Who the heck design that dash? I know for a fact a normal Asian can't reach it sitting back comfortably in that seat. However, I will say that the Toyota Sequoia hold its value when it comes time to sell it. Better than the Toyota Land Cruiser which I WAS comparing against. Unfortunately the Toyota Land Cruiser depreciates at about $1,000 a month. Those can be had as 16K to 30K miles for $45,000-$55,00 respectively on the used market. Well I don't need a Land Cruiser aesthetically it's a little bit more up to date than the Toyota Sequoia which is important for my wife. We are in need of the three-row crossover and Toyotas attempt at shoving one inside of a Highlander is a joke. They just need to get off their butts, redesign the Sequoia from the ground up and they would have a winner on their hands.
These are great trucks if buying used 08. In 2018 it's outdated that's why they don't sell. Look at the armada interior. Everything's wrapped in leather this interior is super cheap compared to the new suvs.
I'm not sure if I've ever owned a car long enough to replace one (I have a problem - I like new cars!). But most of the key fobs have a battery inside so it's really just a matter of replacing the battery. Not really that big of a deal. I actually prefer it!
Raynell Holmes lol it's a 10 year old SUV. Super outdated. Have you sat in one compared to the armada this interior is dirt. I would not recommend this to anyone. I'm %99 sure the new Sequoia will come out as a 2019 model
I have a feeling you're a Nissan owner. Having been an independent auto tech for over 20 years, I would not own a Nissan product. My experience with them gives me the feedback that they are Japan's cheap, and unreliable option. You talk about the interior being wrapped in leather (subpar most likely), but good luck keeping it out of the repair facility. I have a list a mile long of items that will go out on a Nissan product, and it isn't maintenance items. The mentality that vehicle manufacturers are catering to is fancy technology and eye candy, but have no regards for reliability. Yeah, you have a WiFi hotspot, cordless recharger, and cameras all over, but your water pump will go out before the 40k mile mark, or the #4 cylinder intake valve seat will drop before 60k miles and trash your engine.
Gary Fontenot lol I just replaced a 2010 seqouia with a infiniti qx60. And Have a Lexus gs460. TBH I'm kinda scared of tthe infinity it's brand new right now and has a very nice interior. I've always driven Lexus BMW and mercedes. But mainly Lexus. They don't break. I doubt the Infiniti will get past 100k before I sell it (I like driving newer cars) but Nissan's not a bad company. This is the first I've ever had but I see them on the road with 250k plus miles
Gary Fontenot lol a suburbans not a Nissan lmao I know and get what your saying. All I'm saying is this seqouia was nice very nice. 10 years ago when it was new. It just can't compete now. That's why it used to sell so well but hasn't sold past few years. It's just old. My favorite company is Lexus and I'm scared to drive anything past 150k that isn't a Toyota product. But they need to make a new one look at the new Tahoe/expedition interiors materials and looks are all up to date.you can love Toyota all you want but you have to admit that's it's getting old andthey need to come out with a new one
A key! Holy smokes! And some are going to smartphones starting and entry. Things like a key can be a dealbreaker for some. This is the 21st century is it not???