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Older Model Toyota Sequoia Overview
In today's extremely overpriced used car market, many shoppers are now looking for "older" models that have aged well as a way to save significant dollars. The Toyota Sequoia is certainly one of these models, making them a viable and definitely more economical option at this time.
And there are still lower mileage candidates to be found out there ... ones driven 7,000 or 8,000 miles a year.
And if it's a full-size SUV you're looking for, it's hard to overlook the Sequoia. The ride quality is smooth, easy and quiet ... and this SUV is a lot more maneuverable than one would expect.
Acceleration is impressive for such a large vehicle, there's plenty of amenities and interior space is a big, big plus ... whether needed just for comfort or to move people or things.
There have primarily been only two generations of Sequoia since it debuted in 2001, with a third introduced for 2022. However, this article pertains to the older models.
Both earlier generations are equipped with powerful V8 engines, come in either two-wheel or four-wheel drive forms and possess a roomy and comfortable interior. The 2nd generation, which was introduced for the 2008 model year, is the larger of the two, making it a true full-size SUV.
Three trims are available in these model years: SR5, Limited and Platinum. And in terms of features, even the base SR5 model is well equipped, with standard equipment that includes full power accessories, triple-zone automatic climate control, alloy wheels, a 40/20/40 second-row bench seat, and a CD stereo with an auxiliary audio jack.
The Toyota Limited model adds Bluetooth, an upgraded JBL sound system, a leather interior and power front seats, while the top-of-the-line Sequoia Platinum adds a number of upscale amenities such as 20 inch wheels, second-row captain's chairs (this reduces passenger capacity to seven), a power lift gate, adaptive shock absorbers, load-leveling rear air springs and a navigation system with a back-up camera.
Some of these Toyota Sequoia models can also be found with these features as most were available as options on the other models, as is a towing preparation package and a rear entertainment system.
Under the hood of this Sequoia SR5 initially is a smooth and powerful 4.7 liter V8 engine that produces 276 horsepower and 314 pound-feet of torque. It's mated with a five-speed automatic transmission. Powering all other Sequoias, and optional on the SR5, is a prodigous 5.7 liter V8 that's rated at 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque and is coupled with a six-speed automatic.
Unlike the previous Sequoia generation, this version has an independent rear suspension that allows for the third-row seat to fold flat into the floor to create a substantial 120 cubic feet of cargo space.
The first-generation Toyota Sequoia was produced from 2001 through 2007. This version is an eight-passenger SUV that was initially outfitted with a 240 horsepower 4.7 liter V8 mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. This generation offered two models, the SR5 and Limited, that were again offered in either two or four-wheel drive forms. The base SR5 models are very well equipped while the Limited models are loaded with luxury features.
Of note to used Sequoia shoppers considering these model years are several significant changes that took place throughout this run. In 2005, power was boosted to 282 horses (later revised to 273 due to a changed rating method) and 325 lb-ft of torque in the 4.7 liter V8. A new five-speed automatic transmission was also introduced.
The 2005 Sequoia also got an exterior design refresh as well as two popular new options packages: the SR5's sport package and the Limited's luxury package. Both of these included a height-adjustable rear suspension. And in 2007, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags were made standard in all models.
Overall, with its attractive and well-built interior, compliant driving manners, smooth V8 engine and strong resale value, the Sequoia is clearly an excellent candidate as an older large SUV purchase. The key is to find one with lower mileage and they can still be found out there with careful and patient shopping.
How To Get The Best Price
There are actually several different ways to buy an older Sequoia at the lowest price, and even at wholesale. You can click on the links to each of the following methods to get the specific instructions.
First of all, here's a Lowest Price Used Car Buying Guide that details a super effective method, one that often beats down prices even to wholesale levels. And somewhat related to this, here's another excellent method that identifies Price-Distressed Cars Right On Dealer Lots. These are vehicles they are so desperate to unload they would welcome your wholesale offer.
In addition, you can also try the Public Car Auctions in your own geographic area. While there can be a lot of junk vehicles at these auctions, there are often absolute gems sprinkled in as well. This article reviews what to expect at open-to-the-public car auctions and how to locate them in your own area.
Also ... for those of you who might be interested in a brand new Toyota Sequoia, if the price was crazy good, here's info on exactly How To Get The Best Price On A New Sequoia. This works just phenomenally well.
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