Full-Size Capabilities: 2015 Toyota Sequoia SUV
The 2015 Toyota Sequoia is a true full-size, full-capability SUV that also happens to handle everyday driving with aplomb. A four-wheel independent suspension and impressively tight turning circle help make the Sequoia quite comfortable and manageable regardless of the errand at hand.
Available in SR5, Limited and Platinum grades, power for the large Toyota SUV is generated by an iForce 5.7L V8 engine. Dual independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and an Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS) ensure ample torque across the engine speed range. ACIS switches the intake tract length in two stages, based on engine RPM and throttle angle. The Sequoia uses regular-grade fuel. Torque is communicated to the ground through a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.
The Sequoia offers the choice of 2WD and full-time 4WD. The available Multi-Mode 4-wheel-drive system uses a two-speed transfer case with a lockable TORSEN® limited-slip center differential to apportion torque to the front and rear wheels. The driver can shift into low range on the move via a rotary knob, and can lock the center differential with the push of a button.
The Toyota Sequoia is built on an exclusive platform that uses body-on-frame construction and features four-wheel independent suspension to help provide exemplary ride quality, handling and straight-line control. The four-wheel independent suspension employs upper and lower A-arms at each wheel, tubular shock absorbers, coil springs and a hollow tubular antiroll bar. It provides not only above average chassis dynamics thanks to reduced unsprung weight, but also a turning radius of about 19 feet, the tightest in Sequoia's class. Additionally, increased suspension travel and a sophisticated upper front shock-absorber support and lower bushing help enhance ride quality.
The Sequoia Platinum grade steps into luxury SUV territory with its load-leveling rear air suspension and Adaptive Variable Suspension. The latter is an electronic damper control system that offers driver-selectable settings for Comfort, Normal and Sport. The rear air spring suspension helps maintain appropriate ride height and chassis attitude when carrying heavy loads or towing.
Inside the passenger cabin, the Sequoia is useful and user-friendly and its driver and passengers, regardless of size and build, have sufficient space to ride in comfort. Indeed, space sufficient to comfortably accommodate people well above normal height is available in each of Sequoia's eight seats.
Additionally, the second-row seat is equipped with a sliding-type seat adjuster that allows the seat to be adjusted for added comfort when the number of passengers is limited. For the third-row seat, an advanced seat-cushion linkage reclining mechanism is adopted that elevates rear passenger comfort to new levels.
The dashboard designers have incorporated a modular instrument panel structure with a finish and feel worthy of comparison with similar surfaces in the finest luxury cars. Rings around Sequoia's Optitron gauges, and the climate control knobs, are chrome colored, and panels on the dash are silver metallic.
A four-spoke steering wheel contains controls for the Sequoia's air conditioning system, Bluetooth®-capable phones and other functions. It is connected to a newly developed steering column with a floating intermediate shaft that helps enhance steering feel and minimize noise and vibration. This steering column offers both tilt and telescopic functions, and a powered memory feature is available.
Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 122.0; overall length: 205.1; width: 79.9; height: 74.6
All vehicle measurements are in inches
Engine: 5.7L V8 – 381 hp at 5,600 rpm and 401 lbs-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm
Transmission: six-speed automatic with Tow/Haul mode
EPA Fuel Economy: 13 city/18 hwy. (2WD), 13 city/17 hwy. (4WD).
Cargo capacity: 120.1 cubic feet
Payload capacity: 1,350 lbs.
Towing capacity: 7,400 lbs.
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual roll-sensing head curtain side-impact airbags, dual front knee airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake-force distribution, traction control, vehicle stability control, smart-stop technology, fog lamps, side-impact door beams, daytime running lights, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, direct-type tire pressure monitoring system, engine immobilizer, trailer sway control, remote keyless entry, automatic power door locks, and full-size spare tire. 4WD adds limited slip locking Torsen center differential, engine skid plates, and transfer case skid plates. Limited adds rearview camera and front/rear parking assist. Platinum adds HomeLink universal transceiver, dynamic laser cruise control, blind spot monitor and navigation system.
Warranty
Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile Comprehensive
Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile
Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 2-year/25,000 mile 24-hour
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2015 Toyota Sequoia SUV starts from $44,395 for the SR5 4x2 upto $64,320 for the Platinum 4x4 model. Destination charges add $925.
