Lee Toyota of Topsham

The second-generation Toyota Sequoia full-size sport utility vehicle enters its third model year with a new standard 4.6-liter V8 that is more powerful and more efficient than the 4.7-liter V8 it replaces. In addition, all 2010 Sequoia models add driver and front passenger knee airbags, a Cold Kit with heated side mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer, and daytime running lights to their safety roster, along with numerous new amenities and user-technology features. Many more popular optional features are now standard equipment on all models, making Sequoia nearly mono spec, adding considerable extra customer value and simplified vehicle ordering for 2010.

 

The Sequoia is available in SR5, Limited and Platinum grades. In select areas, the Sequoia features as standard E85 Flex Fuel capability on 4x4 5.7-liter V8 models.

 

Performance
Sequoia is available with a choice of two V8 engines, a new 4.6-liter and the 5.7-liter unit it debuted with. Both engines run on recommended regular-grade fuel. The standard engine for the 2010 Sequoia SR5 is the new 310 horsepower 4.6-liter i-Force V8, which replaces the previous 276-hp 4.7-liter V8. The new 32-valve DOHC engine features aluminum alloy cylinder heads with Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which controls valve timing and overlap on both the intake and exhaust camshafts to optimize power, fuel efficiency and emissions. Peak torque is also up, now 327 lb.-ft. at 3,400 rpm vs. 314 lb.-ft. at 3,400 rpm for the 4.7-liter engine.

 

The new 4.6-liter V8 is teamed to a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, compared to a five-speed automatic with the previous 4.7, benefitting both performance and fuel economy. Highway fuel economy estimates improved, now with and EPA rating of 19 mpg (2WD) vs. 17 mpg with the previous 4.7-liter V8.

 

As before, the Sequoia Limited and Platinum grades feature a standard iForce DOHC 5.7-liter V8 engine teamed to a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, and this powertrain is optional for the SR5. The 5.7-liter iForce provides outstanding acceleration performance and enables the Sequoia to tow up to 10,000 lbs. (depending on model grade and equipment), putting it among the leaders in its class.

In the six-speed automatic transmission for all models, Toyota's flexible torque converter lock-up control enhances efficiency, with lock-up occurring in fourth, fifth and sixth gears. The Multi Mode four wheel drive system available for all grades uses a two-speed transfer case with a lockable TORSEN® limited-slip center differential to power the front and rear wheels. The transfer case is shifted electronically via a rotary knob, and it locks with the push of a button.

 

The second-generation Sequoia is built on an all-new platform that features four-wheel independent suspension to help provide exemplary ride quality, handling and straight-line control. The suspension employs upper and lower A-arms at each wheel, tubular shock absorbers, coil springs and a hollow tubular anti-roll bar. Four-wheel independent suspension improves chassis dynamics thanks to increased suspension travel and reduced unsprung weight. The 39-foot turning circle is one of the tightest in Sequoia's class.

 

The Sequoia Platinum model is equipped with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), which adjusts damper response with settings for comfort, normal and sport. AVS helps improve the ride comfort and augments the Sequoia's ability to tow and haul heavy loads while maintaining an appropriate ride height and chassis attitude. The SR5's standard 18-inch aluminum wheels have 275/65 R18 tires; 275/55 R20 tires on 20-inch aluminum wheels are standard for Limited and Platinum, with a diamond-cut finish featured on Platinum.

 

Safety
The 2010 Sequoia is equipped with Toyota's STAR Safety System?, which includes VSC (Vehicle Stability Control), ABS with EBD, BA and TRAC (Traction Control). On 4WD models TRAC is replaced by A-TRAC (Active-Traction Control) on 4WD models. Sequoia's collision safety includes a dual stage front air bag system, seat-mounted side airbags for the driver and front passenger, and roll-sensing side curtain airbags for all three seating rows. Driver and front passenger knee airbags are new for 2010.

 

Comfort and Convenience
In addition to its new standard features for 2010, the Sequoia SR5 grade is equipped with carryover standard equipment that includes eight-passenger seating; tilt/telescoping steering wheel; engine immobilizer with alarm; direct tire pressure monitoring system; fold-flat feature for second- and third-row seats; automatic tri-zone air conditioning; illuminated entry system; power windows, locks and back window; keyless entry; rear wiper and defogger; cruise control; spare tire; and mud guards.  Standard audio on the SR5 is an AM/FM/MP3/CD with eight speakers, integrated satellite radio with a 90-day trial subscription to XM Satellite Radio, and an auxiliary audio jack/USB port.

Options
With its array of standard features, the 2010 Sequoia has a small menu of factory options. The lone option on all SR5 grades is a Sport Appearance Package that includes seven passenger seating, 20-inch super chrome alloy wheels, color-keyed grille, and black seat fabric. Exterior colors for the Sport Appearance Package is limited to Black, White and Silver.

Exterior Design
The new-generation Sequoia is larger than the previous model. Overall length, width and height are increased, wheelbase is lengthened and its front and rear track is widened. Front and rear overhangs, meanwhile, are reduced. The 0.36 drag coefficient is comparable to smaller crossover-type vehicles and helps reduce wind-noise. The vehicle's mirrors, wipers, A-pillar and roof header are shaped to maximize aerodynamic efficiency and minimize wind noise. The Sequoia's underside is optimized to reduce drag and wind noise and to help improve directional control.

Interior Design
The cabin interior is longer, wider and taller than the previous-generation Sequoia. Space sufficient to comfortably accommodate people well above normal height is available in each of Sequoia's eight seating positions. The same efficient packaging that allows class-leading interior comfort also allows carrying items up to 11 feet long. Fold the second and third row seats flat and you've got 120.1 cubic feet of cargo space.

 

The dash incorporates a modular instrument panel structure and, like other interior surfaces, features a finish similar to fine luxury cars. All three grades offer two interior color choices of Graphite and Sand Beige. A Red Rock interior is also available on the Platinum grade and a Black interior is exclusive to the SR5 when equipped with the Sport Appearance Package.

 

Comfortable, spacious seats are used in all positions. The driver's seat is standard-equipped with power lumbar support, and an available option on the front passenger seat.