Our test vehicle came equipped with the standard goodies, including 4-speed automatic transmission, P245/70R16 tires, 4-wheel ventilated brakes and ABS, power windows/locks/mirrors, 10 cupholders, bench seat with center armrest, front/rear mudguards, a whopping 4.7-liter I-Force V8 engine (the same engine used in the Tundra), AM/FM/Cassette/CD with six speakers, cruise, power antenna and anti-theft system, among other things.

The Sequoia is larger than the Land Cruiser and is available in both SR5 and Limited grades. Top-of-the-line Limited editions offer extras that can be had on the SR5, but as an option. To that end, the SR5 test Sequoia we drove had several options, pushing it just about into the Limited category. Fabric, cloth captain chairs are standard on the Sequoia SR5, however, the power is an option ($745), which our vehicle had. Other options on the SR5 we drove included a roof rack ($220); alloy wheel package (P265/70R16 tires with 16" alloy wheels, tow hitch, running boards, RR privacy glass, overfenders, $1,535); convenience package (power heated outside mirrors, accessory meter with compass, o/s temperature gauge, homelink and trip computer, $255); dual air conditioning, front/rear controls ($570); JBL 3-in-1 premium audio AM/FM/Cassette/CD with 8 speakers ($515); keyless entry ($245); carpet/cargo mat set ($196); and auto-dimming mirror ($250). Transportation/destination ran $480.

As Toyota’s largest SUV, Sequoia offers, according to Lexus, the "price, performance and features currently in demand" with active families. Sequoia has more interior room and more cargo area than Land Cruiser or 4Runner, and offers 10.6-inches of ground clearance for off-road capability. The V8 4.7-liter, 240-horsepower engine in the Sequoia is enough power plant for the Sequoia’s 5,270 curb weight. This is no small potatoes, and getting up into the SR5 isn’t for wimps. Any passengers I toted that measured in under 5’8 inches tall, were at the mercy of every and all grip handle generously offered on the Sequoia.

The Sequoia offered in SR5 and Limited models, is available in both 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive versions. Estimated fuel economy varies only slightly; the 2WD version at 14/18 mpg and the 4-wheel version at 14/17 mpg. Towing capacity for 2WD/4WD is 6,500/6,200, respectively.

Sequoia is Toyota’s first SUV that uses a truck engine, and one that is EPA-certified as ultra-low emission vehicle. When first introduced in 2001, Sequoia won Truckin’ Magazine "2001 SUV of the Year," and Trailer Boats Magazine’s "Tow Vehicle of the Year." Quite an honor for a new kid on the block.

A much larger vehicle than this writer cares to drive, the Sequoia is nevertheless, a comfortable riding, well-handling vehicle. As quiet as one could hope for in a good size V8, Sequoia is unmistakenly Toyota. Named after the great Sequoia tree, Toyota intended to convey such attributes as strength, longevity and beauty.