2013 Toyota Sequoia Expert Review

The 2013 Toyota Sequoia, unlike the car-based soft-roaders that are currently clogging up roads nationwide, is a straight-up truck-based body-on-frame SUV. The Tundra pickup-based Sequoia gets a mid-cycle update this year. The biggest change this year comes under the hood: the base 4.6-liter 310-hp V-8 has been dropped, and in its place the optional 5.7-liter V-8, which makes 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque, becomes the standard engine. The Sequoia continues to be available with a six-speed automatic transmission, and rear- or four-wheel drive. With the 5.7-liter V-8 as standard, a properly equipped Sequoia can tow up to 7400 pounds. The Sequoia is EPA rated at 13/18 mpg city/highway with rear-wheel drive, and 13/17 mpg with four-wheel drive. But don't worry. It comes with a 26.4 gallon gas tank.

When we last tested Sequoia, a fully-loaded (and $61,380) Platinum model back in 2011, we generally enjoyed driving it. The 5.7-liter V-8 gives the Sequoia plenty of grunt, and it has nice, car-like steering, even though it can feel a bit too loose at times. The interior was also pretty nice. "The cabin doesn't disappoint and comes furnished with fine perforated leather colored Graphite or vibrant Red Rock," we wrote, "There's little skimping on features. Platinum buyers receive a 12-way-adjustable power driver's seat with memory function, heating, and cooling," among other things.

For 2013 the Sequoia's previously optional 5.7-liter V-8 becomes standard equipment. Also new this year is a revised navigation system, and a rear-seat entertainment system that can play Blu-Ray discs, which Toyota claims is an automotive first.

New for 2013

The 2013 Toyota Sequoia gets rid of the base 4.6-liter V-8 and replaces it with a more powerful 381-hp 5.7-liter V-8. Also new for 2013 is an updated navigation system, and a Blu-Ray-capable rear-seat entertainment system.