Toyota Sequoia, named after the world’s largest redwood trees, continues its legacy as a full-size SUV that offers vast spaciousness, robust power, and exceptional capability. The 2017 Toyota Sequoia stands out as a testament to Toyota’s commitment to quality and value, providing everything you need in a large SUV.
For those seeking a vehicle that blends roominess with off-road prowess, towing strength, and sophisticated style, the 2017 Sequoia is an ideal choice. Available in SR5, Limited, and Platinum trims, and with options for two-wheel or four-wheel drive, every Toyota Sequoia model serves as a haven of comfort and advanced connectivity on wheels.
Indeed, the Toyota Sequoia reigns supreme in Toyota’s lineup when it comes to passenger comfort. Offering generous space across all three rows of seating, it ensures every journey is enjoyable. The independent suspension system contributes to the Sequoia’s smooth ride quality, significantly enhancing the spaciousness of the third row, which comfortably accommodates adults with 35.1 inches of legroom. The second-row legroom is equally impressive, mirroring that of a full-size sedan at 40.9 inches. Despite its substantial size and weight, the Toyota Sequoia delivers a driving experience that feels surprisingly agile, thanks to its refined suspension and a tight 38.1-foot turning diameter.
Toyota Sequoia Trim Levels: SR5, Limited, and Platinum
The Toyota Sequoia SR5 trim establishes a high standard, positioning itself among the most comprehensively equipped vehicles in its class. A wealth of standard features includes a tilt/telescoping steering wheel fitted with audio and Bluetooth® controls, an engine immobilizer with alarm for enhanced security, tri-zone automatic climate control for personalized comfort throughout the cabin, a power tilt/slide moonroof to bring the outside in, a towing package to handle your hauling needs, an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, fog lamps for improved visibility, a roof rack for extra cargo, running boards for easier access, and much more.
Stepping up to the Toyota Sequoia Limited trim adds further convenience and functionality. It includes front and rear sonar parking assist to simplify maneuvering, a power rear liftgate with a sliding window for easy cargo access, power folding and reclining 60/40 split third-row seats for flexible passenger and cargo configurations, and stylish 20-inch alloy wheels. Comfort enhancements in the Limited trim feature a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a 4-way power front passenger seat, heated front leather-trimmed seats for those chilly mornings, second- and third-row retractable sunshades for added passenger comfort, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel for a touch of luxury.
At the pinnacle of the range, the Toyota Sequoia Platinum trim embodies luxury with features like a 12-way adjustable power driver’s seat for ultimate customization, rear load-leveling air suspension for a smooth ride even when loaded, a power seat memory package to remember your preferred driving position, and heated second-row seats to keep rear passengers comfortable. Technological advancements in the Platinum model include Dynamic Laser Cruise Control for enhanced safety and convenience on long drives, and a Blue-Ray rear seat entertainment (RSE) system with a 9-inch LCD screen, separate rear seat audio system, and dual wireless headphones to keep passengers entertained. (The RSE system is also available as an option for the Limited trim.)
i-FORCE V8 Engine: Powering the Toyota Sequoia
Power is a defining characteristic of the Toyota Sequoia, thanks to its robust dual-overhead cam 5.7-liter i-FORCE V8 engine. This powerhouse delivers 381 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 401 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 rpm. Featuring Dual Independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and an Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS), this engine ensures abundant torque is readily available across the entire engine speed range. Remarkably, this powerful engine operates efficiently on regular-grade gasoline and is paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.
For Toyota Sequoia owners who frequently tow, the V8 engine’s capability to generate 90 percent of its peak torque at a low 2,200 rpm is a significant advantage. This low-end power makes towing trailers effortless for the Sequoia. Meeting the SAE J2807 towing standard, the Toyota Sequoia boasts a towing capacity of up to 7,400 lbs., depending on the specific model grade and equipment. Adding to towing convenience, the Sequoia includes a standard towing hitch seamlessly integrated into the frame for enhanced strength and durability.
Drivers can utilize the transmission’s Tow/Haul mode, which recalibrates shift points to optimize performance while towing. Standard Trailer Sway Control further enhances towing safety by using the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system to counteract forces that can lead to trailer sway.
A standard rear view camera system provides valuable assistance when parking or aligning with a trailer. The camera display is integrated into the standard electrochromic auto-dimming rear-view mirror, which also incorporates a compass and map lamp for added utility. Vehicles equipped with navigation systems utilize a larger screen for the camera display.
Built for Durability and Comfort: Toyota Sequoia Chassis and Suspension
The Toyota Sequoia’s durable chassis provides a solid and comfortable foundation for towing, navigating off-road terrains, and everyday driving. The four-wheel independent suspension system delivers exceptional bump absorption for a smooth on-road ride and impressive wheel articulation when venturing off the beaten path.
The Toyota Sequoia Platinum trim elevates ride quality to luxury levels with its rear load-leveling air suspension and Adaptive Variable Suspension. The Adaptive Variable Suspension system is an electronic damper control system that offers drivers selectable settings for Comfort, Normal, and Sport modes, allowing customization of the ride to suit driving preferences and conditions. The rear air spring suspension is designed to maintain optimal ride height and vehicle posture when carrying heavy loads or towing trailers.
The available Multi-Mode 4WD system is among the most sophisticated in the full-size SUV segment today. This system utilizes a lockable TORSEN® limited-slip center differential to effectively distribute torque between the front and rear wheels. A two-speed transfer case provides a low range setting, crucial for tackling steep off-road inclines and challenging terrains. Switching to low range is easily done on the move via a rotary knob, and the center differential can be locked with the simple push of a button.
To manage the Toyota Sequoia’s formidable power, it is equipped with substantial braking power. This includes 13.9-inch ventilated front disc brakes and 13.6-inch ventilated rear disc brakes, all utilizing four opposed pistons for consistent and effective stopping performance. The Toyota Sequoia SR5 is fitted with 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels paired with 275/65 R18 tires, while the Limited and Platinum trims feature larger 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 275/55 R20 tires. The Platinum trim’s wheels are further distinguished by a unique diamond-cut finish.
The Toyota Sequoia: A Spacious and Serene Family Room
The Toyota Sequoia provides a quiet and comfortable environment for family journeys. Its aerodynamic body design reduces wind resistance, achieving a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.36, comparable to some smaller vehicles. The overall design and exterior features are engineered to minimize wind noise, contributing to a serene cabin atmosphere.
Side-view mirrors on the Toyota Sequoia Limited trim are power-retractable, auto-dimming, and include integrated turn-signal lamps. The Platinum trim elevates the mirrors further with puddle lamps, position memory, and reverse-linked tilt functions for enhanced convenience and visibility. Standard headlight washers on all trims ensure headlights remain clear and bright in adverse weather conditions.
Wide-opening rear doors facilitate easy passenger entry and exit, as well as simplified child seat installation. When the second- and third-row seats are folded flat, the Toyota Sequoia offers an expansive 120.1 cubic feet of cargo space, capable of accommodating items up to 11 feet long. Ample cup and bottle holders are provided, outnumbering passengers by a ratio of two to one, with the Platinum trim adding even more for increased convenience.
Featuring a 40/20/40 split configuration, the second-row bench seat offers versatile seating and cargo arrangements, enhanced by a 5.9-inch seat-slide adjustment range. The middle row folds flat and includes a one-touch easy-slide feature, simplifying access to the third row. For a more luxurious seating arrangement, second-row captain’s chairs are available, converting the cabin to a seven-seat configuration.
The third-row seat, designed to comfortably accommodate adults, features a 60/40 split and reclining capability. It also folds flat easily, with an available power tilting and folding feature for added convenience. The rear liftgate includes power sliding glass that can be opened independently, and the generous cargo area is equipped with practical hooks for securing grocery bags and other items.
Stay Connected and Entertained with Toyota Entune™
The Toyota Sequoia SR5 trim comes standard with the 8-speaker Entune Audio Plus system featuring Connected Navigation (Scout® GPS Link), which utilizes the customer’s smartphone to provide navigation via the head unit. This system includes a high-resolution 6.1-inch touch-screen display, AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback, SiriusXM All Access Satellite Radio (including a three-month trial), auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod® connectivity, hands-free phone capability, and music streaming via Bluetooth wireless technology. The subscription-free Entune App Suite broadens entertainment options with internet radio, including iHeartRadio® and Pandora.
The Toyota Sequoia Limited trim upgrades to the Entune Premium Audio system, which includes MP3/WMA playback and a 14-speaker system, featuring a subwoofer for enhanced audio quality. In the Platinum trim, the Entune Premium JBL Audio with Navigation and App Suite delivers the ultimate in information and entertainment. This top-tier system includes a voice-activated touch-screen, integrated backup camera display, SiriusXM All Access Satellite Radio (with a three-month trial), and all the features of the Limited trim’s audio system. The premium multimedia units in the Sequoia offer rapid performance thanks to dual-core processors, and iPhone users can conveniently charge their phones via the USB port while simultaneously using the Entune App Suite.
Toyota Safety: Standard in Every Sequoia
The 2017 Toyota Sequoia is equipped with Toyota’s STAR Safety System™, encompassing Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRAC), and Smart Stop Technology (SST) brake override. On 4WD models, TRAC is replaced by A-TRAC (Active-Traction Control) for enhanced off-road capability. All Toyota Sequoia models include a direct tire pressure monitoring system as standard equipment.
For comprehensive occupant protection, the Toyota Sequoia features a dual-stage advanced front airbag system, seat-mounted side airbags for the driver and front passenger, roll-sensing side curtain airbags extending to all three seating rows, and knee airbags for both the driver and front passenger.
Toyota Limited Warranty and ToyotaCare
The Toyota Sequoia is backed by Toyota’s 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty, covering all components except for normal wear and maintenance items. Additional warranties include a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 60-month corrosion warranty with no mileage limitation. Furthermore, every Toyota Sequoia comes standard with ToyotaCare, a complimentary plan that covers normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. Consult your Toyota dealer for complete details on the limited warranty and ToyotaCare.
