Toyota Sequoia: prices and specifications

Toyota Sequoia

Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV built on the Tundra pickup platform. The model was developed specifically for the markets of North America and Central Asia. The name chosen for the vehicle is not accidental: it continues the tradition of naming full-size Toyota models (such as the Tundra pickup). The car is named after the sequoia, the tallest tree on Earth, which grows exclusively in the United States.

The decision to produce the Sequoia was largely driven by the success of its "parent" model, the Tundra, in the North American market. Development of the brand's largest SUV began in 1998. Engineers did not have to create the vehicle from scratch: most design and technical solutions were borrowed from the Tundra. Throughout 1999, Toyota showed the pre-production version several times, and the official premiere took place at the Detroit Auto Show in 2000. The first-generation Sequoia used the same engines, transmissions, chassis, and body panels as the Tundra. The main difference, aside from the body type, was the use of a rear multi-link suspension and rear disc brakes on the Sequoia. Another feature is the four-wheel drive system: unlike the Tundra with permanent all-wheel drive, the Sequoia uses a part-time four-wheel drive system.

In 2005, the model received a facelift. In addition to exterior and interior updates, the car was equipped with a new 4.7-liter engine with VVT-i variable valve timing. The model's success was cemented by the title of "Best SUV of 2001" in the United States.

Second Generation

The second generation of the vehicle was introduced in 2007 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The appearance of the model changed significantly, but it remained closely tied to the Tundra, as it was built on the new platform of that pickup. Key technical innovations include an independent multi-link rear suspension with double wishbones and a center locking differential in the four-wheel drive system.

In Ukraine, this vehicle is supplied unofficially. Currently, versions with two gasoline engines of 4.6 and 5.7 liters are available. They are paired only with an automatic transmission — five- or six-speed. The car is equipped with part-time four-wheel drive.