2008-2009 Toyota Sequoia 4WD 5.7L

Overview

The second-generation Toyota Sequoia, introduced for the 2008 model year, represented a significant expansion in size and capability for Toyota’s full-size SUV line. Built on a platform shared with the Tundra pickup, this generation moved away from the chassis architecture of its predecessor to provide a more robust foundation for towing and heavy-duty use. The vehicle was engineered specifically for the North American market, focusing on interior volume, cargo versatility, and the power requirements of American consumers.

At the heart of the 2008-2009 Sequoia was the 5.7-liter i-FORCE V8 engine. This powertrain was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing a substantial increase in performance over the previous generation. The vehicle featured an independent rear suspension, which improved ride quality and handling compared to the solid-axle designs common in the segment at the time. With three rows of seating and a variety of configurations, it was positioned to compete directly with domestic full-size SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition.

Manufacturing took place at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana, underscoring the brand’s commitment to domestic production for the US market. Throughout its early years, the Sequoia established a reputation for mechanical longevity and high build quality, traits that have allowed it to maintain strong resale values. While it occupied a niche in the large SUV segment, its combination of Toyota’s reliability standards and genuine off-road capability made it a preferred choice for families requiring high towing capacity and all-weather utility.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Toyota
Model	Sequoia 4WD
Model Year	2008-2009
Generation	2nd Generation (XK60)
Trim	SR5, Limited, Platinum
Body Style	4-Door SUV
Vehicle Segment	Full-size SUV
Vehicle Class	Sport Utility Vehicle – 4WD
Market	USA
Platform	Toyota Tundra (XK50)
Assembly Plant	Princeton, Indiana, USA
Country of Origin	USA
Production Start	2007
Production End	2022
VIN Identifier	5TD
Base MSRP	$38,000 – $50,000
Destination Charge	$700 – $800
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	Toyota UR engine
Engine Name	3UR-FE
Engine Code	3UR-FE
Engine Configuration	V8
Displacement	5.7 Liters
Bore x Stroke	94.0 mm x 102.0 mm
Compression Ratio	10.2:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Electronic Fuel Injection
Valve Train	DOHC 32-Valve
Engine Block Material	Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	7.9 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	0W-20
Horsepower	381 hp @ 5,600 rpm
Torque	401 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm
Redline	5,900 rpm
Drivetrain	4-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S6)
Final Drive Ratio	4.30:1
Axle Ratio	4.30:1
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	13
EPA Highway MPG	18
EPA Combined MPG	15
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	–
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	26.4
Estimated Driving Range	400 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	–
CO₂ Emissions	–
Greenhouse Gas Score	–
Smog Rating	–
Performance
0-30 mph	–
0-60 mph	6.7 seconds
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	15.3 seconds
Top Speed	115 mph (governed)
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	135 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.72g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	–
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	205.1
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	79.9
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	–
Height (in)	77.0
Wheelbase (in)	122.0
Front Track (in)	67.9
Rear Track (in)	67.9
Ground Clearance (in)	9.6
Curb Weight (lbs)	5,730
GVWR (lbs)	7,100
Towing Capacity (lbs)	9,100
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,370
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	153
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	18.9
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	120.1
Turning Circle	39.0 ft
Approach Angle	26 degrees
Departure Angle	20 degrees
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	4 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash	4 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash	5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover	3 Stars
IIHS Award	–
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	Optional Navigation
Instrument Cluster	Analog
Apple CarPlay	No
Android Auto	No
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	JBL Synthesis
Speaker Count	14
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	5 years / 60,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	5 years / unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance	–
Complimentary Maintenance	ToyotaCare (varies)
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Huntsville, Alabama
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Torsen Limited Slip
Cooling System Capacity	–
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	150
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2008-2009 Toyota Sequoia is widely regarded for its exceptional mechanical reliability, particularly regarding the 5.7L i-FORCE V8 engine, which is known to exceed 200,000 miles with basic maintenance. Prospective buyers should prioritize vehicles with documented service histories, specifically checking for evidence of regular oil changes to ensure the longevity of the VVT-i system. Common areas for inspection include the secondary air injection system, which can trigger check engine lights, and the condition of the air suspension components on higher trims like the Platinum, as these can be costly to repair. Despite its age, the Sequoia remains highly sought after in the used market for its towing capability, spacious interior, and robust build quality, making it a practical choice for those prioritizing utility over modern infotainment features or fuel efficiency.