The 2008–2009 Toyota Sequoia 4WD with the 2UZ-FE 4.7-liter V8 sits in a very specific sweet spot. It belongs to the second-generation Sequoia (XK60/UCK65), sharing a robust frame with the Tundra but adding an independent rear suspension, a big three-row cabin, and a full-time 4WD system with low range. The 4.7 V8 is the “smaller” engine in this generation, yet it still delivers around 276 hp and 314 lb-ft of torque, tuned more for longevity than outright speed.
For many owners, this configuration is about trust: a cast-iron-block V8 with a long record of surviving heavy towing, off-road use, and high mileage, wrapped in a family-friendly SUV. It is not the most fuel-efficient option, and it asks for timely timing-belt service, but it rewards that care with a calm highway ride, strong tow ratings, and a reputation for running well past 200,000 miles when maintained properly.
At a Glance
- Proven 2UZ-FE 4.7-liter V8 (cast-iron block, VVT-i) focused on durability rather than peak power.
- Full-time 4WD with low range and roughly 7,500 lb (3,402 kg) max tow rating when properly equipped.
- Huge, flexible three-row interior and independent rear suspension for a smoother ride than most truck-based SUVs.
- Watch for timing-belt age, possible exhaust manifold leaks, and frame/suspension rust on vehicles from salt regions.
- Plan for timing belt and water pump service about every 90,000–100,000 miles (145,000–160,000 km) or 8–10 years.
Navigate this guide
- Toyota Sequoia 4WD 4.7 V8 Overview
- Sequoia 2UZ-FE Specifications and Data
- Toyota Sequoia Trims, Equipment, Safety and Driver Aids
- Reliability, Common Issues and Service Actions
- Maintenance Schedule and Buying Guide
- Driving Experience and Performance
- Toyota Sequoia Versus Key Rivals
Toyota Sequoia 4WD 4.7 V8 Overview
The 2008–2009 Sequoia 4WD with the 4.7-liter 2UZ-FE V8 is the “workhorse” spec of the second-generation Sequoia. Toyota launched this generation for 2008 with a fully boxed frame, a new independent rear suspension, and far more interior room than the first-generation model.
In the U.S. market, the 4.7 V8 is standard on SR5 models and available mainly in the lower trims, while the more powerful 5.7-liter 3UR-FE V8 is marketed as the premium upgrade. The 4.7 uses a cast-iron block and aluminum DOHC heads with VVT-i, producing about 276 hp at 5,400 rpm and 314 lb-ft (426 Nm) at 3,400 rpm in this application. Paired with a 5-speed automatic and full-time 4WD (with a lockable center differential and low range), it’s tuned for steady torque rather than quick acceleration.
What makes this configuration attractive is the balance of simplicity and capability:
- The 2UZ-FE has an unusually strong reliability record in Land Cruisers, 4Runners, Tundras, and earlier Sequoias, often exceeding 200,000–300,000 miles with basic maintenance.
- The independent rear suspension and long wheelbase (about 122 in / 3,099 mm) give the Sequoia a more car-like ride and better third-row space while still preserving decent tow and off-road ability.
- Standard stability control, side curtain airbags for all three rows, and a strong crash structure help deliver solid safety scores for the 2008 model year.
The trade-offs are predictable. Fuel economy for a 4WD 4.7 is typically around 13 mpg city / 16 mpg highway (roughly 18.1 / 14.7 L/100 km), with many owners reporting real-world mixed numbers in the mid-teens. The engine uses a timing belt rather than a chain, so there is a significant but infrequent service at roughly 90–100k miles. And, compared with the 5.7, the 4.7 feels more relaxed than urgent when fully loaded or towing near its 7,500 lb rating.
If you value a proven powertrain, an enormous cabin, and authentic 4WD hardware more than outright speed or fuel savings, the 4.7-liter Sequoia is one of the more conservative—but also one of the more durable—ways to own a full-size SUV.
Sequoia 2UZ-FE Specifications and Data
Engine and performance
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine code | 2UZ-FE (VVT-i) |
| Layout and cylinders | 90° V8, DOHC, 32 valves (4 per cylinder) |
| Block / head material | Cast-iron block, aluminum cylinder heads |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 × 84.0 mm (3.70 × 3.31 in) |
| Displacement | 4,663 cc (4.7 L) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Fuel system | Multi-port fuel injection (EFI) |
| Compression ratio | About 10.0:1 (VVT-i variant) |
| Max power | Around 276 hp (206 kW) @ 5,400 rpm |
| Max torque | Around 314 lb-ft (426 Nm) @ 3,400 rpm |
| Firing order | 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2 |
| Timing drive | Belt-driven camshafts |
| Emissions standard | ULEV-II / U.S. EPA compliant for 2008–2009 |
| Rated economy (4WD 4.7) | About 13 mpg city / 16 mpg highway / 14 mpg combined (≈18.1 / 14.7 / 16.8 L/100 km) |
Real-world mixed driving typically returns around 14–15 mpg (about 15.7–16.8 L/100 km) according to owner-reported data.
Transmission and driveline
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic (A750F) with tow/haul mode |
| Gear ratios (approx.) | 1st 3.52, 2nd 2.04, 3rd 1.40, 4th 1.00, 5th 0.72, Reverse 3.22 |
| Final drive ratio | Around 3.90–4.10:1 depending on axle/tow package (check VIN data) |
| Drive type | Full-time 4WD with lockable Torsen-type center differential and 2-speed transfer case |
| Transfer case | Electronically controlled, high/low range selection |
| Differentials | Open front and rear; center differential limited-slip; electronic aids via traction control |
Chassis and dimensions
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Front suspension | Double-wishbone with coil springs, anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent double-wishbone with coil springs (air springs on some Platinum trims) |
| Steering | Rack-and-pinion with power assist |
| Front brakes | Vented disc, approx. 13.9 in (353 mm) diameter |
| Rear brakes | Vented disc, approx. 13.6 in (345 mm) diameter |
| Wheels / tyres (typical SR5) | 18-in alloy, 275/65 R18 all-season |
| Ground clearance | Around 10 in (254 mm), trim-dependent |
| Length | About 205.1 in (5,205 mm) |
| Width | About 79.9 in (2,030 mm) |
| Height | About 74.6 in (1,895 mm), without roof rack |
| Wheelbase | About 122.0 in (3,099 mm) |
| Turning circle (curb-to-curb) | Around 38.1 ft (11.6 m) |
| Curb weight (4WD 4.7 SR5) | Around 5,900–6,000 lb (≈2,675–2,720 kg) |
| GVWR | Around 7,300–7,400 lb (≈3,310–3,357 kg) |
| Fuel tank | About 26.4 gal (100 L) |
| Cargo volume (SAE) | Around 18.9 ft³ (535 L) behind 3rd row / up to roughly 120.8 ft³ (3,421 L) with 2nd and 3rd rows folded |
Performance and capability
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| 0–60 mph (4.7 4WD, typical) | About 8.0–8.5 s in independent testing |
| Top speed (governed) | Around 110 mph (177 km/h), market-dependent |
| Braking 70–0 mph | Roughly 184 ft in similar 5.7 4WD tests; 4.7 shares the same brake hardware |
| Max towing (4.7 4WD, properly equipped) | Around 7,500 lb (3,402 kg) braked |
| Payload | Often in the 1,350–1,500 lb (612–680 kg) range, trim-dependent |
| Roof load | Typically about 200 lb (90 kg) dynamic—confirm with your specific roof rack/market data |
Fluids and service capacities (approximate, always verify by VIN)
| System | Spec and capacity (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Engine oil | API SL/SM or newer, 5W-30; about 6.5 L (6.9 qt) with filter |
| Engine coolant | Toyota Super Long Life (pink), 50/50; about 13–14 L (13.7–14.8 qt) including heater |
| Automatic transmission (A750F) | Toyota WS ATF; dry fill around 11–12 L, typical drain/fill about 3–4 L |
| Front differential | 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil; around 1.4–1.6 L |
| Rear differential | 75W-90 GL-5; around 3.0 L (check axle code for LSD requirements) |
| Transfer case | Toyota gear oil or 75W-90 GL-4/5 per manual; around 1.3–1.5 L |
| A/C refrigerant | R-134a; charge and oil quantity vary—follow under-hood label |
| Key torque examples | Wheel lug nuts about 131 N·m (97 lb-ft), drain plugs about 39–49 N·m (29–36 lb-ft), spark plugs around 18–22 N·m (13–16 lb-ft) |
Electrical system
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Alternator | Typically 130–150 A depending on equipment |
| 12V battery | Around 70 Ah, 600–700 CCA group-size battery (varies by climate package) |
| Spark plugs | Long-life iridium; factory gap about 1.0–1.1 mm (0.039–0.043 in) |
Safety and driver assistance hardware
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Airbags | Front, front side, and full-length side curtain airbags for all three rows |
| ABS / stability | 4-wheel ABS, Brake Assist, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), traction control |
| NHTSA crash ratings (2008, selected) | Frontal driver 5★, frontal passenger 5★, rollover 4★ (4WD) |
| IIHS crash tests | Limited direct tests; later driver-death-rate studies show very low overall risk for 4WD Sequoia compared with its class |
| ADAS | Primarily conventional safety; advanced systems like modern AEB and lane keeping appear on newer generations, not on 2008–2009 models |
Toyota Sequoia Trims, Equipment, Safety and Driver Aids
For 2008–2009 in North America, the Sequoia line is organized into SR5, Limited, and Platinum trims. The 4.7-liter 2UZ-FE is standard on most SR5 models; Limited and Platinum trims usually ship with the 5.7-liter V8, though some early build SR5s could be optioned with the larger engine.
Trims and options (focus on 4.7 4WD UCK65)
SR5 (core 4.7 trim)
- 4.7-liter V8 with 5-speed automatic, 4WD available or standard depending on region.
- 18-inch alloy wheels, cloth or basic fabric upholstery, manual-adjust front seats (power on some packages).
- Tri-zone climate control, keyless entry, tilt/telescopic steering, basic audio with CD and optional JBL upgrade.
- Optional packages may add towing package (receiver, wiring, higher-capacity cooling), roof rack, running boards, and power driver’s seat.
Limited (usually 5.7 but similar hardware)
- Leather seating, power front seats, memory functions, upgraded JBL audio, power tailgate window.
- Larger wheels (often 20-inch), additional chrome trim, power-folding mirrors.
- Available navigation, rear DVD entertainment, and parking sensors.
Platinum (mostly 5.7, not common with 4.7)
- Standard rear air suspension with height control, ventilated front seats, heated second row, navigation, rear DVD system, and early distance-keeping cruise control.
For a buyer focused specifically on the 4.7-liter engine, the typical configuration will be an SR5 4WD with the tow package. Mechanically, that means the 5-speed A750F gearbox, full-time 4WD, and usually a transmission cooler and higher-capacity cooling system.
Quick identifiers for a 4.7-equipped Sequoia:
- “i-Force 4.7L V8” badging on the tailgate and engine cover.
- 5-speed automatic in spec sheets (5.7s use a 6-speed).
- SR5 trim with fewer luxury features; many 5.7s are Limited/Platinum with more obvious chrome and 20-inch wheels.
Safety ratings and crash performance
The 2008 Sequoia achieves strong results in U.S. federal testing. Data for 2008 shows:
- 5 stars for driver and front passenger in frontal impacts.
- 5 stars for side impacts where tested.
- 4-star rollover rating for 4WD models, with a rollover risk figure in the high teens.
The insurance-industry driver-death-rate studies later highlighted the Sequoia 4WD as having among the lowest driver fatality rates in its period, largely due to its size, structure, and stability systems. This does not mean accidents are harmless, but it underlines how the platform protects occupants relative to many smaller vehicles.
Safety systems and ADAS evolution
For 2008–2009, the Sequoia’s safety suite is built more from passive hardware and conventional electronics than from modern camera- and radar-based ADAS.
Key features include:
- Front, side, and three-row curtain airbags with roll-sensing deployment.
- Front active head restraints.
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), traction control, ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, and Brake Assist.
- LATCH / ISOFIX child-seat anchors in the second row.
Advanced ADAS like autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and modern adaptive cruise control are not present in 2008–2009 Sequoias. The Platinum’s laser-based cruise is an early distance-keeping system and not a full collision-mitigation feature.
Service implications:
- Any collision repair affecting airbag modules or curtain airbag mounting points must follow Toyota procedures, including replacement of one-time-use components and post-repair diagnostics.
- After alignment, steering-angle and yaw-rate sensor calibrations should be performed with a capable scan tool to keep stability control working correctly.
- If the vehicle has the Platinum air suspension, height-sensor calibration is needed after component replacement or ride-height changes.
Reliability, Common Issues and Service Actions
The 2UZ-FE Sequoia is widely seen as a high-durability combination: an overbuilt cast-iron-block V8 designed for trucks, in a relatively unstressed tune. However, age, mileage, and vehicle weight mean some systems deserve close attention.
Engine and cooling
Common / moderate-cost
- Timing belt and water pump
- Symptoms: Overdue age/mileage, coolant seepage at pump, belt cracking or audible slapping.
- Root cause: Time and heat; the belt is a wear item and should not be run far past the interval.
- Remedy: Replace timing belt, tensioner, idlers, water pump, and drive belts as a package. Many owners also replace cam and crank seals while the front of the engine is open.
- Valve cover and cam seal seepage
- Symptoms: Oily smell on hot shutdown, minor oil seep down engine sides, dampness at head edges.
- Root cause: Hardened gaskets and seals with age and heat cycles.
- Remedy: Replace gaskets and seals; verify PCV system is functioning to keep crankcase pressure under control.
Occasional / higher-cost
- Exhaust manifold cracks
- Symptoms: Ticking noise on cold start that quiets as the metal expands, occasional exhaust smell under load.
- Root cause: Thermal cycling and casting stress in heavy trucks and SUVs.
- Remedy: Replace affected manifold(s) and hardware; stainless aftermarket parts are often chosen for long-term durability.
- Secondary air injection issues (on VVT-i 2UZ-FE variants)
- Symptoms: Check-engine light with air-pump codes, reduced-power limp mode on cold start.
- Root cause: Moisture intrusion and corrosion in the secondary air pump and switching valves.
- Remedy: Replace pump and valves, check for updated parts or TSBs; ensure correct routing and drains to minimize water accumulation.
Driveline, suspension, and chassis
Common / low- to medium-cost
- Front suspension wear
- Symptoms: Clunks over bumps, wandering steering, rapid or uneven tyre wear.
- Root cause: Worn lower control-arm bushings, ball joints, and sway-bar links under the weight of a large SUV.
- Remedy: Replace worn joints and bushings; align afterwards and check tyre pressures and sizes.
- Rear suspension and air system (Platinum)
- Symptoms: Rear sag, compressor running frequently, suspension warnings in the cluster.
- Root cause: Aged air bags, leaking lines, failed compressor or height sensors.
- Remedy: Replace air springs and failed components; some owners convert to steel coil springs to simplify and reduce long-term costs.
- Wheel bearings and hub play
- Symptoms: Growling or rumbling noise that changes with speed and with gentle steering inputs.
- Root cause: Bearing wear from heavy loads, big tyres, or long mileage.
- Remedy: Replace hub/bearing assemblies, and inspect ABS wheel-speed sensors during the repair.
Corrosion and frame
Earlier Toyota trucks and SUVs were subject to high-profile frame-rust recalls. The 2008–2009 Sequoia uses an improved frame design, but vehicles from harsh climates can still suffer from serious corrosion if neglected.
Focus on:
- Rear suspension mounts and trailing-arm areas.
- Crossmembers near the spare tyre and fuel tank.
- Weld seams on the frame and body, especially where mud and salt collect.
Periodic undercarriage washing and, where allowed, professional rustproofing can greatly slow down corrosion on vehicles that still have solid frames.
Electrical and interior
- Navigation / audio head units can develop failing screens, dead pixels, or unresponsive touch panels. Refurbishment or replacement with an aftermarket unit is common.
- Rear DVD systems (if equipped) may suffer from worn optical drives or failing screens; many owners remove or bypass these and use portable devices instead.
- Power windows, locks, and seat motors sometimes show age in high-mileage vehicles but are usually straightforward to diagnose with factory wiring diagrams.
Recalls, TSBs, and extended coverage
Key campaigns affecting 2008–2009 Sequoias include:
- Accelerator pedal / floor mat recalls
- Concern over potential unintended acceleration led to reshaped accelerator pedals, revised floor mats, and software updates on many Toyotas. Owners should verify that all related work is completed.
- Airbag-related recalls
- Depending on build date and market, some Sequoias were included in campaigns for occupant-classification systems, airbag modules, or inflators.
To verify recall completion:
- Run a VIN check through the official recall database for your country.
- Ask a Toyota dealer to print the service and campaign history based on the VIN.
For a pre-purchase inspection, ask specifically for:
- Full service history with proof of at least one timing-belt/water pump replacement by about 100,000 miles.
- Evidence of regular ATF and differential services, especially if the vehicle has a tow hitch or signs of heavy towing.
- Any documentation on recall and TSB work.
- A thorough underside inspection on a lift, with clear photos of frame rails, crossmembers, and suspension mounts.
Maintenance Schedule and Buying Guide
Practical maintenance schedule (typical conditions)
Always confirm intervals in the official owner’s manual for your specific market, but the following is a sensible baseline for the 4.7-liter Sequoia:
- Engine oil and filter – Every 5,000 miles / 8,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first; shorten intervals for heavy towing, severe cold, or frequent short trips. Use quality 5W-30 that meets Toyota’s specifications.
- Engine air filter – Inspect every 15,000 miles / 24,000 km; replace every 30,000–45,000 miles depending on dust levels.
- Cabin air filter – Replace every 15,000–20,000 miles or once per year.
- Spark plugs – Iridium plugs typically every 90,000–120,000 miles (145,000–190,000 km), or sooner if misfire or poor economy appears.
- Timing belt, water pump, and drive belts – Plan for 90,000–100,000 miles (145,000–160,000 km) or 8–10 years. Treat an undocumented belt as overdue.
- Coolant – First change around 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then roughly every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years with Toyota Super Long Life coolant.
- Automatic transmission fluid (WS ATF) – Many owners and independent shops favor 30,000–60,000 mile (48,000–96,000 km) drain-and-fill intervals rather than “lifetime” claims, especially for vehicles that tow regularly.
- Differentials and transfer case – Change gear oil every 30,000–60,000 miles depending on towing and off-road use.
- Brake fluid – Flush every 2–3 years to protect ABS and stability-control components.
- Brake pads and rotors – Inspect at least annually; front brakes on heavy SUVs can wear quickly with city driving or mountain descents.
- Tyre rotation and alignment – Rotate every 5,000–7,500 miles; check alignment yearly or after suspension work or curb impacts.
- Serpentine/auxiliary belts and cooling hoses – Inspect at each oil change; replace belts roughly every 90,000 miles or when cracked, and hoses around 10 years or at the first sign of swelling, cracking, or soft spots.
- 12V battery – Load-test annually after 5 years; expect replacement typically every 5–8 years depending on climate.
No high-voltage battery or EV-specific service is required; the Sequoia is a straightforward gasoline-powered SUV.
Fluid specs and buying decisions
When budgeting for maintenance or evaluating a used Sequoia, keep the following in mind:
- Engine oil – Synthetic or high-quality conventional 5W-30, API and ILSAC compliant, about 6.5 L capacity.
- ATF – Toyota WS is the correct fluid; mixing with universal ATFs is generally discouraged.
- Gear oils – 75W-90 GL-5 in both differentials; verify whether a limited-slip unit requires specific friction modifiers.
- Coolant – Toyota pink Super Long Life coolant, either pre-mixed or concentrate diluted 50/50 with distilled water.
Torque wrenches are recommended for drain bolts, lug nuts, and spark plugs to prevent stripped threads and warped brake components.
Buyer’s guide: what to look for
Pre-purchase inspection checklist
- Corrosion – Lift the vehicle and inspect frame rails, crossmembers, rear suspension mounts, and the spare-tyre area. Advanced frame rust is expensive and sometimes uneconomical to repair.
- Timing belt history – Confirm at least one timing-belt job on any example with 120k+ miles; if not documented, budget for it immediately.
- Transmission behavior – The A750F should shift smoothly; harsh shifts, shudder, or flaring under load may indicate overdue fluid changes or internal wear. A proper test drive up to highway speeds is essential.
- Suspension and steering – Listen for clunks or knocks, and feel for wandering on the highway. Budget for front-end refresh parts on high-mileage vehicles.
- Differential noise – A steady whirring that changes with gentle lane changes can signal bearing wear.
- Interior electronics – Check rear climate controls, power windows, power tailgate glass, seat adjustments, and any factory navigation or DVD systems.
Recommended years/trims
Within 2008–2009 4.7-liter models:
- Best value – 2009 SR5 4WD 4.7 with tow package, low rust, and documented timing-belt and fluid service is often a sweet spot.
- Caution – Platinum models with rear air suspension are attractive but bring more complexity; if you buy one, ensure the air system is healthy or budget for repair or conversion.
Long-term durability outlook
With appropriate care—particularly timing-belt service, fluid changes, and rust prevention—the 2UZ-FE Sequoia is very capable of 200,000–300,000 miles of service. Many examples see a second life as tow rigs, long-distance road-trip vehicles, or overland platforms.
The main threats to longevity are neglect (skipped timing-belt changes, long-overdue ATF), severe corrosion, and cumulative wear from heavy towing without adequate maintenance. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and a conservative maintenance plan go a long way toward keeping ownership boring in the best possible way.
Driving Experience and Performance
Ride, handling, and refinement
The second-generation Sequoia rides very differently from older, leaf-sprung truck-based SUVs. The independent rear suspension and long wheelbase help it absorb bumps with a calmer, more controlled motion than many rivals of its era. Road tests in period often described the Sequoia as one of the more comfortable and quiet full-size SUVs available at the time.
Steering effort is light to moderate with good straight-line stability. This is still a tall, heavy vehicle, so body roll is noticeable but predictable. Stability control intervenes gently when needed, helping keep the big SUV on line if you enter a corner too quickly or encounter sudden grip changes.
Brake pedal feel is generally solid thanks to large discs and a well-tuned booster. Stopping distances are inevitably long compared with smaller vehicles, simply because the Sequoia weighs close to three tons when loaded, so leaving extra following distance is smart.
Cabin noise at highway speeds is impressively low for a body-on-frame SUV of this era. Wind and road noise are well controlled, and the 4.7 V8 settles into a subdued hum at cruise.
Powertrain character
With around 276 hp and 314 lb-ft, the 4.7-liter Sequoia is not tuned to be the fastest option in the line, but it is smooth and predictable. Independent testing and owner reports place 0–60 mph times in the low-to-mid 8-second range for lightly loaded 4WD models.
Subjective impressions:
- Throttle response is linear and easy to modulate, making low-speed maneuvers and parking lot driving feel natural.
- Low-rpm torque is strong enough for relaxed city driving and moderate towing, though the 5.7-liter engine feels stronger at highway speeds and on steep grades.
- The 5-speed automatic shifts smoothly and prefers calm inputs. Under heavy load, it can hunt a bit more than the newer 6-speed units, but tow/haul mode helps keep gears locked longer and reduces heat.
Drivers stepping up from mid-size crossovers often find the Sequoia’s powertrain relaxed rather than underpowered. The emphasis is on smoothness and durability rather than sharp response.
Real-world fuel economy
Official ratings for the 4.7-liter 4WD Sequoia cluster around 13 mpg city / 16 mpg highway / 14 mpg combined. Real-world owner data typically shows:
- City / short trips – 11–13 mpg (21.4–18.1 L/100 km).
- Steady highway at 65–70 mph (105–113 km/h) – 15–17 mpg (15.7–13.8 L/100 km).
- Mixed driving – 14–15 mpg (about 16–15.7 L/100 km).
Cold weather, roof racks, larger tyres, and heavy towing can all push consumption higher. Anyone considering a Sequoia should budget honestly for fuel; the payoff is a powertrain that tends to be forgiving of age when maintained.
Towing and load behavior
With a rated towing capacity around 7,500 lb for 4WD 4.7 models, the Sequoia is comfortable pulling medium travel trailers, boats, and equipment when correctly set up.
On the road with a trailer:
- The long wheelbase and wide track help with straight-line stability and crosswind behavior.
- Transmission temperatures are best managed with tow/haul mode, moderate speeds on long grades, and periodic ATF service.
- Expect a fuel-economy penalty of 25–40% when towing near 5,000–7,000 lb (2,270–3,175 kg).
Payload is often in the mid-1,000 lb range, so when traveling with a full cabin and a loaded trailer, it is important to keep an eye on cargo weight, tongue weight, and rear-axle ratings.
Traction and off-road
The full-time 4WD system with a lockable center differential and low range gives the Sequoia more off-road capability than most crossovers and many part-time systems.
- In snow and rain, full-time 4WD plus stability control makes the big SUV feel secure, especially with appropriate tyres.
- On gravel and light trails, ground clearance and suspension travel are sufficient, though long overhangs and wheelbase limit breakover and departure angles compared with shorter off-roaders.
- In deep sand or mud, traction control can be a bit overprotective; switching to low range and using smooth throttle usually helps maintain momentum.
For owners who spend significant time off-pavement, mild upgrades such as all-terrain tyres, skid plates, and slightly stiffer shocks can improve confidence without sacrificing reliability.
Toyota Sequoia Versus Key Rivals
When new, the 2008–2009 Sequoia competed with the Ford Expedition, Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, and Nissan Armada. Comparison tests of the era often put the Sequoia at or near the top for ride comfort, interior space, and overall refinement.
Against Ford Expedition (5.4 V8)
- Powertrain – The Expedition’s 5.4-liter V8 offers similar headline power but can feel more strained when towing heavy loads. The Toyota 2UZ-FE is generally regarded as more robust over very high mileages.
- Ride and interior – Both SUVs use independent rear suspensions, but the Sequoia often wins points for third-row comfort and general interior space.
- Ownership – The Sequoia tends to hold its value better and is widely considered a lower-risk choice for long-term ownership, though Toyota dealer parts and labor can be more expensive in some areas.
Against Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban (5.3 V8)
- Size and space – The Sequoia is wider and offers more third-row and cargo space with seats folded, positioning it closer to a Suburban in interior volume.
- Engines – GM’s 5.3 V8 is more fuel-efficient and benefits from a large support ecosystem, but certain years gained a reputation for oil consumption and cylinder-deactivation quirks. The 2UZ-FE avoids those issues but uses more fuel.
- Towing and stability – Tow ratings are similar, and both can be excellent tow platforms when properly maintained. Owners who prioritize a simpler, non-cylinde- deactivation engine often lean toward the Sequoia.
Against Nissan Armada (5.6 V8)
- Performance – The Armada’s 5.6-liter V8 is strong and lively, giving it brisk acceleration. The Sequoia 4.7 feels more relaxed by comparison and closer in character to a traditional truck engine.
- Ride and NVH – The Sequoia typically offers a quieter, more refined ride, especially on rough surfaces.
- Reliability – While the Armada has its strengths, long-term reports often favor the Sequoia’s drivetrain and frame hardware for high-mileage use.
Where the 4.7 Sequoia stands out
For buyers who specifically want the 4.7-liter Sequoia rather than the 5.7 or newer hybrid models, the main advantages are:
- A very well-proven, naturally aspirated, non-direct-injection V8 with a long track record in heavy-duty applications.
- One of the roomiest and most comfortable cabins in its era, especially for third-row passengers and cargo with the seats folded.
- Solid safety performance, helped by mass, a robust structure, and a full complement of airbags and stability systems for the time.
Its weaknesses are equally clear:
- Fuel economy that lags smaller V8 rivals and modern turbocharged engines.
- Less punch than the 5.7 when fully loaded or towing near maximum capacity.
- Age-related costs—timing-belt jobs, suspension refresh, potential rust remediation, and electronics repairs—now forming an inevitable part of the ownership picture.
For someone cross-shopping used full-size SUVs today, a clean, well-maintained 2008–2009 Sequoia 4.7 4WD makes the most sense if you prioritize long-term dependability and space over fuel efficiency and cutting-edge technology. Its engineering is conservative, but that conservatism is exactly why many owners keep them for a decade or more.
References
- 2008 Sequoia – Owners’s Manual 2008 (Owner’s Manual)
- Vehicle Detail Search – 2008 TOYOTA SEQUOIA | NHTSA 2008 (Recall Database and Safety Ratings)
- Used 2008 Toyota Sequoia-V8 Utility 4D SR5 4WD Specs | J.D. Power 2008 (Specifications)
- Driver death rates by make and model 2015 (Safety Rating / Statistical Study)
- 2008 Toyota Sequoia Review & Ratings 2008 (Road Test and Owner-Oriented Data)
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, repair, or safety assessment. Specifications, torque values, service intervals, and available features can vary by VIN, production date, market, and installed equipment. Always confirm technical data and procedures against the official Toyota service information, your vehicle’s owner’s manual, and local regulations before performing maintenance or repairs.
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