The Toyota Sequoia II, produced from 2008 to 2017, represents the second generation of Toyota’s full-size SUV. Designed primarily for the North American market, the Sequoia II aimed to provide a robust, family-oriented vehicle with significant towing capacity and comfortable seating for up to eight passengers. It competed directly with domestic offerings like the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and GMC Yukon, establishing itself as a reliable and well-equipped contender in the full-size SUV segment. The 5.7-liter V8 4WD model, detailed here, was a popular configuration, offering a balance of power, capability, and features.
Toyota Sequoia II 5.7 V8 (381 Hp) 4WD: An Overview
The Sequoia II marked a substantial evolution over its predecessor, featuring a more refined interior, improved ride quality, and a more powerful engine option. While not initially offered in markets like Europe or Asia, the Sequoia II’s design catered specifically to the demands of North American drivers who prioritize space, comfort, and the ability to tow large loads. The second-generation Sequoia benefited from Toyota’s reputation for reliability and build quality, making it a popular choice for families and those needing a versatile vehicle for both daily driving and recreational activities.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Sequoia II 5.7 V8 4WD is the 3UR-FE 5.7-liter V8 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant delivers 381 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 401.23 lb-ft of torque at 3600 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal front-mounted layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution. The 5.7L engine boasts a displacement of 5663 cm3 (345.58 cubic inches) and features a 10.2:1 compression ratio, along with a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and multi-port fuel injection. This configuration provides a smooth and responsive driving experience, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.4 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 6.7 seconds. The Sequoia’s weight-to-power ratio of 7.2 kg/Hp (139.3 Hp/tonne) and weight-to-torque ratio of 5 kg/Nm (198.9 Nm/tonne) demonstrate its substantial power delivery relative to its mass. The engine requires 7.5 liters (7.93 US quarts or 6.6 UK quarts) of oil and 13.7 liters (14.48 US quarts or 12.05 UK quarts) of coolant for optimal operation.
Design & Features
The Toyota Sequoia II is a five-door SUV offering seating for seven to eight passengers, depending on the configuration. Its body-on-frame construction provides a robust platform for towing and off-road capability. The exterior design is characterized by a relatively conservative, yet substantial, appearance, typical of full-size SUVs of the era. Key features included a spacious interior, comfortable seating, and a range of convenience features such as a premium audio system, navigation, and rear-seat entertainment options. Safety features were also a priority, with standard inclusion of Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and multiple airbags. The Sequoia II’s independent coil spring suspension, both front and rear, contributes to a relatively comfortable ride, even when carrying a full load or towing a trailer. Available tire sizes included 275/65R18 and 275/55R20, providing adequate grip and stability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Sequoia |
| Generation | Sequoia II |
| Type (Engine) | 5.7 V8 (381 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 18.1 l/100 km (13 US mpg, 15.6 UK mpg, 5.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 139.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 198.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 381 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 544 Nm @ 3600 rpm (401.23 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 3UR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 5663 cm3 (345.58 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 102 mm (4.02 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13.7 l (14.48 US qt | 12.05 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2735 kg (6029.64 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 4354 kg (9598.93 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1619 kg (3569.28 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal) |
| Length | 5210 mm (205.12 in.) |
| Width | 2030 mm (79.92 in.) |
| Height | 1955 mm (76.97 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3100 mm (122.05 in.) |
| Front track | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Rear track | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 275/65R18; 275/55R20 |
The Toyota Sequoia II 5.7 V8 4WD offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a large, capable, and reliable SUV. Its robust engine, spacious interior, and available features made it a popular choice in the competitive full-size SUV market. While superseded by newer generations, the Sequoia II remains a well-regarded vehicle known for its durability and long-term value.
