The Toyota Sequoia 4WD (USK65) with the 3UR-FE 5.7 litre V8 is built for people who genuinely use a big SUV: towing, snow, light off roading, and full cabins on long trips. Underneath, it is a Tundra based, body on frame truck with a full time capable four wheel drive system, a lockable centre differential, and a strong six speed automatic. The 381 hp V8 is naturally aspirated and port injected, which keeps response predictable and long term maintenance straightforward.
From 2008 to 2017 this second generation Sequoia barely changed in its fundamentals, which is part of the appeal. Owners value the robust drivetrain, roomy three row interior and reassuring feel in bad weather. The trade offs are real too: fuel economy is modest, running gear is heavy, and older trucks now demand careful inspection for rust and age related wear. This guide focuses on the 4WD USK65 5.7 V8 models, explaining specs, reliability patterns, maintenance priorities and how they compare to rivals.
Owner Snapshot
- Full time capable 4WD with a lockable centre differential gives secure traction on snow, gravel and wet highways without constant mode switching.
- 5.7 litre 3UR-FE V8 and six speed automatic deliver strong towing performance, with realistic capacities around 3,200–3,400 kg (7,000–7,400 lb) when properly equipped.
- Independent rear suspension and a long wheelbase give better ride comfort and third row space than many truck based rivals of the same era.
- Secondary air injection failures, rear air suspension issues (Platinum) and corrosion on frame and underbody are key ownership watch points as mileage and age increase.
- Sensible baseline: engine oil and filter every 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km) or 6–12 months, with tyre rotation at 5,000 mile (8,000 km) intervals.
On this page
- Toyota Sequoia 4WD USK65 profile
- Technical data for Sequoia 4WD
- 4WD Sequoia trims and safety systems
- Reliability, failures and service actions
- Maintenance priorities and buyer guide
- Driving impressions and 4WD performance
- How Sequoia 4WD compares to rivals
Toyota Sequoia 4WD USK65 profile
The second generation Toyota Sequoia (XK60) replaced the original model for 2008, and the USK65 code refers to 5.7 litre V8 versions with four wheel drive. It is a large, three row SUV targeted mostly at North America, positioned between the 4Runner and Land Cruiser in size and price at the time. Under the body sits a fully boxed ladder frame, independent front and rear suspension and a two speed transfer case.
What sets the USK65 apart from the rear wheel drive USK60 is its multi mode, full time capable 4WD system. It uses a Torsen limited slip centre differential that can run unlocked on dry pavement (splitting torque roughly 40 percent front, 60 percent rear) and can be locked in high or low range for loose or slippery surfaces. This gives the Sequoia the flexibility of all wheel drive on mixed surface roads and the control of a traditional 4×4 when conditions demand it.
Inside, the Sequoia focuses on practicality rather than luxury showmanship. Most 4WD trucks were sold in family oriented trims with:
- Three rows of seats for seven or eight passengers.
- A wide, sliding second row and a third row that can actually carry adults for shorter trips.
- Substantial cargo room even with all rows up, and a flat load floor when they are folded.
From an ownership perspective, the Sequoia USK65 sits in an interesting spot. It is not as plush as some luxury branded SUVs, nor as efficient as newer downsized turbo or hybrid competitors, but its old school engineering is exactly why many enthusiasts seek it out. The 3UR-FE V8 has no turbochargers or high pressure direct injection pumps to worry about, and the six speed automatic is proven in heavy duty truck use.
By now, all 2008–2017 Sequoias are well into middle or late life. That shifts the evaluation away from brochure features and toward condition, rust exposure, towing history and maintenance discipline. A carefully maintained, rust free Sequoia 4WD can handle another decade of work. A neglected one with a rusty frame, overdue fluids and unresolved warning lights can become an expensive liability. The rest of this guide is written to help you tell the difference.
Technical data for Sequoia 4WD
Engine and performance (3UR-FE 5.7 V8)
The 3UR-FE is a 5.7 litre, all aluminium V8 shared with the Tundra, Land Cruiser 200 and Lexus LX 570. It uses dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and Dual VVT-i variable valve timing.
Engine and efficiency
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine code | 3UR-FE (3UR-FBE on some flex fuel trucks) |
| Layout and cylinders | 90° V8, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder |
| Displacement | 5.7 L (5,663 cc) |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 × 102.0 mm |
| Compression ratio | 10.2 : 1 |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Fuel system | Multi port fuel injection |
| Max power | 381 hp (284 kW) @ 5,600 rpm |
| Max torque | 401 lb ft (544 Nm) @ 3,600 rpm |
| Recommended fuel | Regular unleaded (87 AKI) on gasoline versions; E85 capable on 3UR-FBE |
Official EPA fuel economy for a 2015 Sequoia 4WD 5.7 is approximately 14 mpg combined, 13 mpg city and 17 mpg highway for standard gasoline models, with small variations for flex fuel versions. Real world experience usually shows:
- Around 11–14 mpg US (17–21 l/100 km) in city driving.
- 15–17 mpg US (14–16 l/100 km) on steady highway trips at 100–120 km/h.
- Combined numbers around 13–15 mpg (15–18 l/100 km), depending on tyre choice, load and driving style.
Independent performance testing for the 5.7 4WD Sequoia typically finds 0–100 km/h around 6.7 seconds and 0–60 mph in the mid six second range, which is quick for a vehicle of this size.
The engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, and is known for surviving very high mileages when oil is kept fresh and cooling components are maintained.
Transmission and driveline
All 5.7 4WD Sequoias in this period use a six speed torque converter automatic and a two speed transfer case.
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6 speed automatic (AB60F family) with manual shift gate |
| Gear ratios (typical) | 1st 3.333, 2nd 1.960, 3rd 1.353, 4th 1.000, 5th 0.728, 6th 0.588, reverse 3.061 |
| Final drive ratio | Around 3.90 (varies with axle and tow package) |
| Drive type | Full time capable 4WD with Torsen centre differential |
| Transfer case | 2 speed, high and low range, with centre differential lock |
| Front and rear differentials | Open; traction control and stability systems manage wheelspin |
The 4WD system is a key selling point:
- In normal high range with the centre differential open, it behaves like all wheel drive and can be used on dry pavement.
- A dash switch allows locking the centre differential in high or low range for slippery or loose surfaces.
- Low range provides extra torque multiplication for steep off road climbs or controlled descents.
Regular transfer case and differential fluid changes are important to keep this system happy long term.
Chassis, dimensions and capacities
Representative figures for the 5.7 4WD Sequoia (minor variations by year and trim):
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | Body on frame (Tundra based), fully boxed frame |
| Front suspension | Independent double wishbone, coil springs, anti roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent double wishbone, coil springs; rear air suspension on some Platinum models |
| Steering | Power assisted rack and pinion |
| Brakes | Ventilated front discs, solid or ventilated rear discs with ABS and stability control |
| Tyres | 275/65 R18 or 275/55 R20 (typical factory sizes) |
| Length | ≈ 5,210 mm (205.1 in) |
| Width | ≈ 2,030 mm (79.9 in) |
| Height | ≈ 1,955–1,960 mm (around 77 in, depends on trim and roof rails) |
| Wheelbase | ≈ 3,100 mm (122.0 in) |
| Ground clearance | ≈ 250–255 mm (about 10 in) |
| Approach / departure angles | Roughly 27° / 21° on common trims |
| Curb weight | Around 2,730 kg (≈6,000 lb) for 4WD 5.7 models |
| GVWR | Around 3,300–3,350 kg (7,200–7,300 lb) depending on trim |
| Fuel tank | 100 L (26.4 US gal) |
| Turning circle | Around 11.6 m (38 ft) kerb to kerb |
| Seating | 7 or 8 seats depending on second row layout |
The independent rear suspension is unusual among older body on frame SUVs and helps both ride quality and interior packaging, giving a lower, flatter floor in the third row.
Performance and towing capability
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) | ≈ 6.7–7.0 s unladen |
| Top speed | Electronically limited (varies by market) |
| Braking 100–0 km/h | Typically in the high 30 m range, dependent on tyres and load |
| Maximum towing (braked) | Around 3,175–3,220 kg (7,000–7,100 lb) for many 5.7 4WD configurations with tow package |
| Payload | Often around 600–700 kg (1,320–1,540 lb), trim and options dependent |
| Roof load | Typically around 75–100 kg (consult roof and door jamb labels) |
A properly equipped USK65 with tow/haul mode, trailer brake controller and weight distributing hitch is fully capable of handling a mid size travel trailer or boat, provided you stay within the specific rating for that VIN and pay attention to axle loads.
Fluids, service capacities and key torque values
Exact figures depend on model year and options; the values below are typical for a 5.7 4WD Sequoia and intended as planning numbers only.
| System | Typical specification |
|---|---|
| Engine oil | 0W-20 or 5W-20, API SN or later; ≈7.0–7.5 L (7–8 US qt) with filter |
| Engine coolant | Toyota Super Long Life (pink) or equivalent; ≈13–14 L total capacity |
| Automatic transmission fluid | Toyota ATF WS; total capacity around 11–12 L (drain and fill uses less) |
| Transfer case | Gear or ATF type fluid specified by Toyota; capacity roughly 1–2 L |
| Front and rear differentials | GL-5 75W-85 or similar; around 1.5–2 L front, 3.5–4 L rear |
| Brake fluid | DOT 3 or DOT 4 as specified; change by time, not just mileage |
| A/C refrigerant | R-134a on these model years; charge level shown on underhood label |
Commonly referenced torque values (always verify for your vehicle):
- Wheel lug nuts: around 130 Nm (≈95–100 lb ft).
- Engine oil drain plug: around 40 Nm (≈30 lb ft).
- Differential and transfer case drain/fill plugs: typically 50–60 Nm range.
Electrical system and ignition
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Alternator | Typically around 180 A on tow package trucks |
| 12 V battery | Group 27F or similar, usually in the 700–750 CCA range |
| Spark plugs | Long life iridium, gapped to factory specification; change interval often around 120,000 miles (≈193,000 km) |
Safety and driver assistance hardware
The 2008–2017 Sequoia was designed before the latest wave of active safety tech became standard, so the safety package looks conservative by current standards:
- Front, front side and full length curtain airbags.
- ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist.
- Vehicle stability control and traction control.
- Tyre pressure monitoring.
- Rear view camera fitted on most later trucks, optional or trim dependent earlier on.
- Blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert on some later Limited and Platinum models.
NHTSA rollover testing for similar 4WD Sequoias shows a four star rollover rating out of five, typical for large, tall SUVs. Full frontal and side crash data are more limited due to changing protocols over the truck’s life, which is worth keeping in mind when comparing directly to newer designs.
4WD Sequoia trims and safety systems
Trim levels and mechanical differences
For the 5.7 4WD Sequoia, the core trim structure mirrors the rear drive models:
- SR5 – primary work and family spec, with cloth or basic leather seats, simpler audio systems and fewer comfort extras. Many are eight seat layouts with a second row bench. The tow package may be optional, so you need to confirm its presence individually.
- Limited – adds leather seating with more adjustment, upgraded audio, larger wheels, more chrome exterior trim, additional parking sensors, power tailgate on many years and more convenience features.
- Platinum – range topping comfort focused trim with features such as adaptive rear air suspension, premium JBL audio, navigation, rear seat entertainment, ventilated front seats and often seven seat layouts with second row captain’s chairs.
With the 4WD hardware there are several points to note across trims:
- The 4WD system itself (transfer case, centre diff) is shared, but some trucks receive additional skid plates or tow related cooling depending on package.
- 18 inch wheels on SR5 and some Limited models usually ride more smoothly and have cheaper tyre replacement costs than the 20 inch wheels common on Platinum.
- Rear air suspension on Platinum improves leveling when towing or fully loaded, but adds complexity and cost when air bags and compressors age.
Quick visual cues to trim:
- Badging on the tailgate (SR5, Limited, Platinum) is the obvious one.
- Exterior mirrors and wheels: chrome mirrors and 20 inch wheels usually signal Limited or Platinum.
- Inside, wood trim accents, rear entertainment systems, ventilated front seats and more complex steering wheel controls generally point to Platinum.
Year to year changes affecting 4WD buyers
The underlying USK65 mechanical package stayed largely the same from 2008 to 2017, but there were some meaningful updates:
- Infotainment steadily improved, with better Bluetooth support and navigation graphics in later years.
- Backup cameras gradually moved from options to standard features on more trims.
- Flex fuel capable 3UR-FBE versions became more common in some regions, identifiable by badging and VIN; they can run E85 but are best paired with shorter oil change intervals.
When shopping, it is usually better to prioritise a later, rust free truck with strong maintenance history over a specific early year or minor feature difference.
Safety ratings and equipment picture
From a formal safety rating standpoint:
- NHTSA data for 4WD Sequoias in this period shows good rollover ratings but more limited frontal and side testing compared with newer designs.
- IIHS has not given this generation the full modern small overlap and advanced test treatment, reflecting its age and sales volume.
In terms of physical safety equipment:
- Airbag coverage is solid for the era, with frontal, side and curtain airbags.
- LATCH anchorages for child seats are present in the second row, with top tether points further back. The wide second row helps with fitting bulky child seats, though accessing the third row with seats installed still takes planning.
- The structure benefits from a fully boxed frame and high strength steel in key areas, but it is not optimised around the most recent small overlap tests.
Advanced driver assistance systems (AEB, lane keeping and adaptive cruise with stop and go) are essentially absent on this generation. Where present, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert help with lane changes and reversing, especially with trailers or in tight car parks. After accident repairs involving bumpers, radar or ultrasonic sensors, correct calibration is important, although the systems here are simpler than those on newer vehicles.
For buyers stepping out of a modern crossover packed with ADAS, it is important to set expectations correctly: the Sequoia relies far more on good driver habits and basic stability control than on automatic interventions.
Reliability, failures and service actions
The Sequoia USK65 combines a robust V8 and proven automatic with additional 4WD hardware. When maintained properly, the package is capable of very high mileages, but by now common problems are well understood. Thinking in terms of how often an issue appears and how painful it is to fix is helpful.
Engine and emissions system
- Secondary air injection system (SAIS)
- Prevalence: common on higher mileage trucks, especially in wet or salty climates.
- Typical mileage: often from around 80,000–150,000 miles (130,000–240,000 km).
- Symptoms: check engine light, limp mode, codes related to air injection pumps or switching valves, occasional hard cold starts.
- Likely cause: water and debris ingestion leading to corrosion and failure of pumps and valves.
- Remedy: replace pumps, valves and lines with updated parts; some markets offer revised calibrations that change system duty cycles.
- Exhaust manifold cracking and leaks
- Prevalence: occasional but widely reported as trucks age.
- Symptoms: ticking noise on cold start that reduces when warm, exhaust smell near the engine bay, sometimes reduced performance.
- Cause: thermal stress and expansion cycles in the manifolds.
- Remedy: manifold replacement; labour intensive and therefore not cheap. Some owners combine this with other major engine bay work to reduce overall labour cost.
- Oil leaks and consumption
- The 3UR-FE is not known for catastrophic oil consumption, but at high mileage valve cover gaskets, front timing cover seals and rear main seals can seep. Monitoring oil level between services and addressing leaks before they contaminate mounts or belts is wise.
Cooling system and drivetrain
- Radiator and water pump – like most aluminium radiators and mechanical pumps, these are wear items. Coolant seepage around the pump, aging hoses and radiators with swelling or corrosion are all signals for proactive replacement, often around the 10–15 year mark.
- Transmission behaviour – the AB60F is generally strong. Issues such as shudder, flare or harsh changes tend to be linked to overheated or old fluid, especially in trucks that tow often. Regular drain and fill ATF service reduces risk.
- Transfer case and differentials – fluid neglect can lead to noisy bearings and wear. Front differentials and CV joints are more stressed on 4WD models, particularly with oversized tyres or frequent off road work. Listen for whine during steady cruise and clicking on full lock at low speed.
Suspension, steering and brakes
Given the size and weight of the Sequoia, suspension and steering components are under real load:
- Control arm bushings and ball joints – expect wear from around 100,000–150,000 miles, sooner on rough roads. Symptoms include clunks, wandering steering and uneven tyre wear.
- Sway bar links and bushings – relatively cheap parts that often cause clattering noises over small bumps.
- Rear air suspension (Platinum) – air bags can crack and leak, compressors can grow noisy or fail. Sagging rear ride height, frequent compressor cycling and dash warnings are signs the system needs attention. Some owners opt for coil spring conversion kits to avoid future air system repairs.
- Brake system – front rotors are large but can still warp or develop thickness variation under heavy use, especially towing in hilly regions. Shudder under gentle braking from highway speeds is a common clue.
Corrosion and body
Frame and underbody corrosion is a significant concern in areas with heavy road salt or near the coast:
- Frame rails and crossmembers – inspect for heavy scaling, deep pitting or perforation. Some markets have seen frame rust campaigns on related Toyota trucks; check recall history.
- Brake and fuel lines – corrosion can lead to leaks and sudden failures, so inspection along the entire run is important.
- Rear hatch, door bottoms and tailgate area – look for bubbling paint and seal failures.
Rust is highly dependent on climate and care; a dry climate truck can look almost new underneath while a similar year vehicle from a salt belt region may need major work.
Recalls, TSBs and warranty extensions
Over its life, the 2008–2017 Sequoia line has been involved in several significant campaigns:
- Airbag inflator recalls (Takata and related) – like many vehicles of its era, the Sequoia is covered by airbag inflator recalls.
- Pedal and stability control recalls on early years, addressing throttle pedal behaviour and stability control programming.
- Frame corrosion campaigns in some regions, mainly for certain years and climates.
- Various calibration updates for engine and transmission control units.
Because specifics depend heavily on VIN and region, any prospective buyer or owner should:
- Run the VIN through the official Toyota recall checker in their market.
- Confirm with a dealer that all safety recalls, service campaigns and applicable warranty extensions have been completed.
Printouts of recall completion and any major warranty repairs are useful additions to a vehicle’s history folder.
Pre purchase reliability checks
For a used Sequoia USK65, a structured pre purchase inspection should include:
- Full electronic scan for engine, transmission, ABS, airbag and 4WD system codes.
- Physical check of 4WD operation: engage and disengage modes, lock and unlock centre differential, verify there are no warning lights.
- Inspection of frame, suspension arms and brake lines for corrosion or repairs.
- Listening tests for driveline noise from front and rear differentials and transfer case.
- Close inspection of Platinum rear air suspension if fitted: look for leaks, uneven ride height and compressor noise.
A clean, rust free truck with these known issues either absent or already addressed is usually a safe long term bet.
Maintenance priorities and buyer guide
Practical maintenance schedule for 4WD Sequoia
Below is a generalised baseline that balances Toyota guidance with real world experience for an aging full size SUV:
- Engine oil and filter – every 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km) or 6–12 months, whichever comes first, using high quality synthetic oil of the correct viscosity and specification. Shorten the interval if you tow often, idle for long periods, drive mostly short trips, or use E85 regularly on flex fuel models.
- Tyre rotation and pressure check – every 5,000 miles (8,000 km). Regular rotation helps keep the 4WD driveline happy and extends tyre life.
- Engine air filter – inspect every 15,000 miles; replace about every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or sooner if driving on dusty roads.
- Cabin air filter – check annually; replacement every 1–2 years is typical.
- Spark plugs – around 120,000 miles (193,000 km) or 10 years, sooner if misfires appear or fuel economy drops.
- Coolant – first change about 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 10 years, then roughly every 5 years/50,000–60,000 miles (80,000–100,000 km).
- Automatic transmission fluid – conservative drain and fill every 60,000–90,000 miles (100,000–150,000 km), especially if towing or in hot climates.
- Transfer case and differentials – every 60,000 miles (100,000 km) or sooner for frequent off road or tow use. For many owners this coincides with every second ATF service.
- Brake fluid – every 2–3 years, regardless of mileage, to control moisture and corrosion.
- Power steering and related fluid – inspect at every oil change; replace according to manual or when fluid is dark or contaminated.
- Serpentine belt and hoses – detailed inspection from 60,000 miles onwards; replacement around 90,000–100,000 miles or time based if cracking or glazing is present.
- Suspension and steering joints – quick visual and play check at every service; full underbody inspection yearly.
- 12 V battery – test annually from year 4 onward; replace when capacity and cranking performance level off, especially in cold climates.
Because the 3UR-FE uses a timing chain, there is no scheduled belt replacement. Chains, guides and tensioners are inspected by symptom: rattling at cold start, timing correlation codes or metal in the oil. If those appear, a chain service becomes a major but infrequent repair.
Fluid choices and workshop conversations
Being clear about fluids and quantities helps when discussing work with a garage:
- Engine oil – 0W-20 (common Toyota recommendation) or 5W-20 in some markets, meeting Toyota’s service specifications. Capacity is around 7.0–7.5 L with filter.
- Coolant – Toyota Super Long Life (pink) or equivalent silicate free, long life coolant; dealers usually premix to 50/50.
- ATF – Toyota ATF WS only, unless a specialist shop with strong Toyota experience recommends otherwise for a specific reason.
- Gear oils – GL-5 lubricants in Toyota specified viscosity grades for differentials and transfer case.
Having these at hand makes it easier to sanity check estimates and parts lists.
Buying guide checklist
When looking at a used Sequoia 4WD:
- Body and frame
- Crawl under (or have a shop lift it) to inspect frame rails, crossmembers, butt welds and suspension mounts. Avoid trucks with advanced structural rust or patchy repairs.
- Engine and bay
- Look for oil leaks at valve covers and front cover, coolant leaks around the water pump and radiator end tanks, and evidence of overheating (discoloured plastics, staining).
- 4WD system
- On a test drive, engage 4WD modes as described in the owner’s manual. Verify that centre diff lock works, engagement is not accompanied by loud grinding or banging, and no 4WD or traction warning lights stay on.
- Transmission and driveline
- Check for smooth upshifts and downshifts, no flare, and no clunks when shifting from park to drive or reverse. Listen for whine or rumble at steady speeds that might indicate differential or bearing wear.
- Suspension and steering
- Take the truck over rough roads and speed bumps. Clunks, knocks or a “floaty” feel suggest worn bushings or shocks. On a straight road the wheel should sit centred, and the truck should not wander or pull.
- Brakes and tyres
- Check tyre brands, tread depth and ages; mismatched or very old tyres can hide alignment and suspension problems. Feel for brake pulsation or pulling, and inspect rotor surfaces if possible.
- Interior and electrics
- Test every powered feature: windows, locks, mirrors, seats, seat heaters, rear entertainment, climate control including rear zone, sunroof and power tailgate.
- Records
- A folder showing regular oil changes, periodic coolant and transmission services, and completed recalls is far more important than a low asking price with no documentation.
Recommended years and trims
Because the underlying drivetrain is consistent across 2008–2017, the most important factors are condition, rust exposure and care. That said:
- Later trucks (roughly 2013–2017) benefit from the latest small tweaks to infotainment and minor options.
- SR5 4WD is usually the simplest to maintain and can be an excellent tow and family vehicle if the tow package is fitted.
- Limited 4WD balances equipment and complexity nicely.
- Platinum 4WD is attractive for comfort but brings rear air suspension and more electronics; factor potential repairs into your budget.
For long term durability, a rust free, well maintained Limited or SR5 is often the sweet spot.
Driving impressions and 4WD performance
Powertrain character on the road
In everyday driving, the 3UR-FE gives the Sequoia a relaxed but responsive feel. Throttle response is linear, with plenty of torque from low revs. You do not wait for turbos to spool; instead, the engine pulls steadily from just above idle. Passing performance is strong, and the engine remains smooth and relatively quiet even when worked hard.
The six speed automatic is tuned for smoothness and fuel economy rather than aggressive downshifts. In normal driving it will upshift early and use taller gears. When you want more response, a firmer press on the accelerator or a quick flick of the shifter into the manual gate will call up lower gears. Tow/haul mode holds gears longer and improves engine braking on hills, which is very useful when towing.
Ride, handling and noise
The combination of independent front and rear suspension and a long wheelbase works well:
- Ride quality – on 18 inch wheels, ride is generally supple and composed, with good absorption of bumps and expansion joints. 20 inch wheels sharpen steering response but can transmit more small bump harshness and road noise.
- Handling – the Sequoia is tall and heavy, so there is body roll in corners, but it is predictable and well controlled. Steering is light, with modest feedback but good straight line stability.
- Noise levels – wind and road noise are moderate and acceptable for a body on frame truck; the V8 is subdued at steady cruise and only really noticeable during strong acceleration.
At highway speeds, the truck feels stable and unhurried. Crosswinds and buffeting from large trucks are noticeable, but not alarming, as long as tyres and suspension are in good condition.
4WD system behaviour and traction
In poor weather, the USK65’s 4WD system is one of its strongest assets:
- With the centre differential unlocked in high range, you effectively have all wheel drive that can be used on any surface, including dry pavement. This is ideal for mixed conditions with intermittent snow, slush and wet patches.
- Locking the centre differential in high range adds extra stability in deep snow, loose gravel or muddy tracks.
- Selecting low range with the diff locked provides crawl control and torque multiplication for steep climbs, boat ramps or slow, technical off road work.
The Sequoia is not a rock crawler, but decent ground clearance, careful wheel placement and appropriate tyres make it competent on forest roads, snow covered passes and rough tracks. Skid plates and side steps (if fitted) are worth inspecting after serious off road use.
Traction and stability control systems work in the background, trimming power and pulsing brakes to keep things tidy. For certain off road situations, reduced intervention modes can be selected, as described in the owner’s manual.
Real world economy and towing feel
Because the Sequoia is heavy and tall, expectations for fuel economy need to be realistic:
- Mixed commuting and errands with some highway usually returns 13–15 mpg US (15–18 l/100 km).
- Gentle highway cruising on level ground can touch the mid teens in mpg, but hills, headwinds and high speeds quickly raise consumption.
- Off road work, low range use and towing all increase fuel consumption significantly.
When towing within its rated limits, the Sequoia feels confident:
- The 5.7 V8 has ample torque for highway merging and grades.
- The long wheelbase and wide track provide good stability, especially with correct weight distribution and hitch setup.
- With heavy trailers, brake performance depends on properly adjusted trailer brakes; the truck’s own brakes are substantial but not designed to handle full combined weight alone for long descents.
Under moderate to heavy tow loads, owners commonly see fuel use worsen by 20–40 percent compared with solo driving, which should be factored into trip planning and budgets.
How Sequoia 4WD compares to rivals
When cross shopping a Sequoia 4WD USK65, the natural competitors are other full size, three row, body on frame SUVs from the same era.
Compared with Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban 4×4
Tahoe and Suburban models from these years often offer:
- Slightly better fuel economy and sometimes more refined highway manners, especially in later generations with updated transmissions.
- Wider dealer network for some regions and a vast aftermarket.
However, they bring their own issues, such as cylinder deactivation hardware on some engines and different long term reliability patterns. The Sequoia stands out for:
- A naturally aspirated, port injected V8 with no cylinder deactivation.
- Independent rear suspension and very generous third row space.
- The multi mode 4WD system with a Torsen centre differential, giving true full time use on any surface.
For buyers prioritising simplicity and long term robustness, the Sequoia often edges ahead; for those seeking maximum efficiency or the latest interior tech, GM may be more attractive.
Compared with Ford Expedition 4×4
Earlier Expeditions in this timeframe use a 5.4 V8, while later ones move to a 3.5 litre EcoBoost V6. The Ford usually offers:
- Softer, more car like ride and a bit more interior width in some configurations.
- Strong towing numbers, particularly for EcoBoost variants.
On the other hand, the Sequoia:
- Avoids the complexity and potential carbon and turbo issues of downsized turbo engines.
- Has a simpler, more traditional mechanical layout that many independent shops are comfortable servicing.
If you value strong low end torque and efficiency while towing, an EcoBoost Expedition can be appealing, but it demands careful maintenance and may not be as forgiving of neglect as the Sequoia’s V8.
Compared with Nissan Armada and Infiniti QX56
First generation Armada and related Infiniti models are often less expensive on the used market and provide:
- Strong V8 power and a comfortable ride.
- Competitive tow ratings.
However, they have historically shown more variability in rust resistance, interior durability and electronics reliability. The Sequoia tends to command higher prices but repays that with a stronger reputation for aging gracefully.
Who the Sequoia 4WD USK65 suits
The 5.7 4WD Sequoia is a good match if you:
- Regularly drive in snowy, muddy or mixed surface conditions where full time capable 4WD adds safety and convenience.
- Need to tow medium to heavy trailers but prefer a petrol V8 and SUV layout over a pickup.
- Plan to keep the vehicle for many years and are willing to invest in proactive maintenance and rust prevention.
- Value a straightforward mechanical design that many independent workshops understand.
It is less ideal if:
- Fuel costs are a top concern.
- You mostly drive in tight urban centres and rarely use the towing or off road capability.
- You prioritise the latest driver assistance tech, very high crash test scores in newer protocols, or ultra modern infotainment.
For the right owner, a clean Sequoia USK65 is a long term, confidence inspiring workhorse that still makes a comfortable family tourer.
References
<a href="https://www.toyota.com/owners/warranty-owners-manuals/vehicle/sequoia/2015/">Toyota 2015 Sequoia Warranty and Maintenance Guide</a> 2015 (Maintenance Guide)<a href="https://assets.sia.toyota.com/publications/en/om-s/OM15A2QRG/pdf/2015_Sequoia_QRG.pdf">2015 Sequoia Quick Reference Guide</a> 2014 (Quick Reference Guide)<a href="https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/bymodel/2015_Toyota_Sequoia.shtml">Gas Mileage of 2015 Toyota Sequoia</a> 2016 (Fuel Economy Data)<a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2015/TOYOTA/SEQUOIA/SUV/4WD">Vehicle Detail Search - 2015 TOYOTA SEQUOIA SUV 4WD | NHTSA</a> 2016 (Safety Rating)<a href="https://www.auto-data.net/en/toyota-sequoia-ii-5.7-v8-381hp-4wd-3957">Toyota Sequoia II 5.7 V8 (381 Hp) 4WD | Technical specs, data, fuel consumption, Dimensions</a> 2025 (Technical Data)
Disclaimer
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, repair or official service procedures. Specifications, torque values, maintenance intervals and repair steps can vary by VIN, model year, market and equipment level. Always verify critical information against the official owner’s manual, workshop manual, technical service bulletins and other documentation specific to your vehicle.
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