Built on the massive Toyota Tundra pickup chassis, the Sequoia adds an SUV body that emphasizes luxury, particularly in the Limited series. For 2005 it offers more V-8 power, also includes a 5-speed automatic plus roll-sensors, a system designed to help reduce the chances of rolling over in extreme situations. Part-time 4WD features shift-on-the-fly. Price is $44,960. Warranty: powertrain 5 yr./60,000 miles, total vehicle 3 yr./36,000 miles. EPA fuel mileage: 15 city/18 highway.

Sequoia—Toyota’s first mainstream, full-size sport-utility vehicle—was developed to fill a key product-and-price position between the midsize 4Runner and premium, full-size Land Cruiser. Developed, designed and built for the American market, Sequoia is larger and roomier than Land Cruiser, and complements Toyota’s SUV lineup with the size, performance, features and pricing that American families currently demand. Sequoia is based on the Tundra platform, and is built alongside the Tundra pickup at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana.

More power, a new transmission, and some trim changes mark 2005 for Toyota’s American-built large SUV. Sequoia returns in SR5 and uplevel Limited models, both with 3-row seating for up to eight. Newly optional for Limiteds are 2nd-row bucket seats with center console that reduce seating capacity to seven. Sequoia has a 4.7-liter V8 with 282 hp, a gain of 42 hp over 2004. A 5-speed automatic is the sole transmission and replaces a 4-speed for ‘05. Both models offer rear-wheel drive or 4WD that can remain engaged on dry pavement and includes a locking center differential and low-range gearing. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and an antiskid/traction-control system are standard. SR5s have 16-inch wheels and offer the Limited’s 17s as an option. Front torso side airbags and head-protecting curtain side airbags are optional and, for ‘05, are designed to deploy in side impacts and rollovers. Other options include rear self-leveling suspension for SR5 and, new for ‘05, driver-governed rear height control for Limited. Rounding out the ‘05 alterations are slightly revised front and rear styling and an in-glass radio antenna to replace a mast. Rear DVD entertainment is optional.

The front fascia, grille, and taillights are redesigned; fender flares are body color; the 4.7-liter V8 increases to 282 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque; and push-button 4WD engagement is available. Driver and front passenger seat-mounted side airbags and front- and second-row side curtain airbags with rollover sensor are optional. Limited Luxury Package includes second-row leather-trimmed bucket seats, removable center console, unique wood trim, and rear height control suspension. SR5 Sport Package includes fog lights, tubular running boards, rear height control suspension, front skid plate, and 16-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels. Push button 4WD engagement is available.

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large SUVs are traditionally workhorse 7-plus passenger wagons with brawny chassis, ample towing ability, lots of cargo space, and generally abysmal fuel economy. These vehicles offer towing and payload ratings similar to large pickup trucks.

Sequoia’s first redesign is now said to be on Toyota’s 2007 agenda, a year later than earlier reported. A new 5.4-liter V8 is expected to supplement or replace the existing 4.7. We hear that engine will also show up as part of the ‘07 makeover for the related Tundra full-size pickups.