The 2006–2007 Toyota Sequoia RWD (chassis code UCK35) sits in a sweet spot for many buyers: the last years of the first generation, with the revised VVT-i 2UZ-FE 4.7-liter V8 rated at 273 hp, a 5-speed automatic, and the simpler two-wheel-drive layout. It combines traditional body-on-frame toughness with a roomy eight-seat cabin and a reputation for going 300,000+ miles when serviced on time. Enthusiasts like its naturally aspirated torque, conventional hydraulic steering, and robust Aisin transmission, while families appreciate the comfortable ride and straightforward controls.
This article focuses specifically on rear-wheel-drive, facelifted 2006–2007 models, so specs and comments are tailored to that configuration rather than 4WD or later generations. We will walk through core technical data, trims and safety equipment, known reliability patterns, a practical maintenance and buying checklist, and how the Sequoia stacks up against rivals like the Chevy Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and Nissan Armada. The goal is to help you judge whether a used Sequoia RWD fits your budget, usage, and tolerance for big-SUV running costs.
Owner Snapshot
- Stout 2UZ-FE 4.7 V8 and Aisin 5-speed automatic are long-lived with regular 5,000–7,500-mile oil changes and coolant timing-belt service around 90,000–100,000 miles or roughly every 9–10 years.
- Rear-wheel-drive layout reduces complexity and cost compared with 4WD but still tows up to about 6,500 lb when properly equipped.
- Expect real-world fuel economy in the mid-teens mpg; city driving and big tyres can easily drop it into the 12–13 mpg range.
- Common age-related issues include frame and underbody corrosion in road-salt areas, rear hatch/handle failures, and tired suspension bushings and shocks.
- Typical maintenance rhythm: oil and filter every 5,000 miles or 6 months, tyre rotation every 5,000 miles, and coolant plus timing belt roughly every 90,000–100,000 miles or 9–10 years.
Navigate this guide
- Toyota Sequoia UCK35 Facelift Overview
- Toyota Sequoia 4.7 Specifications
- Sequoia RWD Trims and Safety
- Sequoia 2UZ-FE Reliability Notes
- Maintenance Schedule and Buying Tips
- Driving, Comfort and Real Economy
- How Sequoia RWD Faces Rivals
Toyota Sequoia UCK35 Facelift Overview
The first-generation Sequoia is Toyota’s full-size SUV built on the Tundra pickup frame. For the mid-2000s it received a facelift with a revised front end, updated tail lamps, and more power. By 2006–2007, the RWD UCK35 variant had reached its most mature form: the 4.7-liter 2UZ-FE V8 gained VVT-i variable valve timing and was rated at 273 hp and around 314 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive.
Compared with earlier 2001–2004 trucks, the facelifted Sequoia brings:
- More power and torque from the VVT-i engine.
- A more modern 5-speed transmission instead of the older 4-speed.
- Detail interior updates and refinements to stability control and braking hardware over time.
Rear-wheel drive models are mechanically simpler than their 4WD siblings: there is no transfer case, front differential, or additional driveshafts. That usually translates into fewer wear items and slightly better fuel economy. It also makes the Sequoia feel more like a big wagon on the road, with lighter steering and less driveline drag, though winter-climate owners will miss 4WD unless they run quality winter tyres.
Key ownership traits:
- Space and layout: Seating for up to eight with a third row that folds (but does not disappear into the floor) and a large, square cargo area.
- Ride and refinement: A coil-sprung independent front suspension and live rear axle give a comfortable, truck-like ride—softer than a Tundra, a bit more floaty than a 4Runner.
- Towing and hauling: With the 2WD configuration and proper equipment, tow ratings around 6,500 lb and payload in the 1,300–1,500-lb range suit boats, small campers, and family gear.
- Age profile: By now these SUVs are approaching or exceeding 200,000 miles in many markets. Service history and rust condition matter more than trim level.
For buyers, the appeal is a proven, overbuilt drivetrain, body-on-frame construction, and Toyota’s parts support, all at prices often lower than an equivalent Land Cruiser. The main trade-offs are fuel consumption, parking size, and the usual wear items found on any 20-year-old, 5,000-plus-pound SUV.
Toyota Sequoia 4.7 Specifications
This section focuses on the 2006–2007 Toyota Sequoia RWD (UCK35) with the 4.7-liter 2UZ-FE VVT-i V8 and 5-speed automatic.
Engine and Performance
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine code | 2UZ-FE (VVT-i) |
| Layout and cylinders | Longitudinal V8, 32-valve DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder |
| Displacement | 4.7 L (4,664 cc) |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 84.0 mm (3.70 in × 3.31 in) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Fuel system | Multi-point port fuel injection |
| Compression ratio | Approximately 10.0:1 on the VVT-i version |
| Max power | 273 hp (about 204 kW) around 5,400 rpm |
| Max torque | About 314 lb-ft (425 Nm) around 3,400 rpm |
| Timing drive | Timing belt driving camshafts; belt also drives water pump |
| Emissions standard | ULEV-II in U.S. market |
| Rated economy (EPA) | Roughly 15 mpg city / 18 mpg highway (2WD) |
| Real-world mixed | Often 13–16 mpg depending on load, speed, and tyres |
Transmission and Driveline
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic, electronically controlled (Aisin family) |
| Drive type | Rear-wheel drive (RWD) |
| Final drive ratio | Around 4.10:1 on many trims (varies slightly by axle/tow package) |
| Differential | Open rear differential (aftermarket LSD/lockers are common upgrades) |
Chassis and Dimensions
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | Body-on-frame, derived from first-gen Tundra pickup |
| Front suspension | Independent double wishbone with coil springs and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Solid live axle with 4-link and coil springs, anti-roll bar |
| Steering | Rack-and-pinion, power-assisted |
| Brakes | Ventilated front discs, rear discs with ABS and brake assist |
| Wheelbase | About 118.1 in (3,000 mm) |
| Length | About 203.9 in (5,179 mm) |
| Width | Roughly 76–79 in (around 1,930–2,000 mm) depending on trim |
| Height | About 73 in (1,850 mm) with roof rails |
| Curb weight | Around 5,100–5,140 lb (about 2,310–2,330 kg) for 2WD trims |
| GVWR | Around 6,600 lb (about 2,995 kg) |
| Fuel tank | Around 26.4 gal (100 L) |
| Seating | 7 or 8 passengers depending on second-row bench or captain’s chairs |
Ground clearance and approach/departure angles vary with tyre size and any lift; stock trucks sit roughly 9–10 inches off the ground with modest overhangs, making them fine for gravel and mild trails but not purpose-built off-roaders.
Performance and Capability
| Item | Value (approx.) |
|---|---|
| 0–60 mph | High-8 to low-9 seconds for stock RWD, unladen |
| Top speed | Electronically limited, typically around 112 mph |
| Towing capacity | Up to about 6,500 lb (braked) with tow package |
| Payload | Around 1,350–1,500 lb depending on trim |
Fluids and Capacities (typical U.S. 2UZ-FE)
| System | Spec and Capacity (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Engine oil | 5W-30 API oil, roughly 6.4–6.6 qt with filter |
| Coolant | Toyota Super Long Life coolant; roughly 11–13 qt for full system |
| Automatic transmission | Toyota WS ATF; around 12 qt total fill, 3–4 qt for a typical drain-and-fill |
| Rear differential | 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil, around 3 qt (check manual for exact figure) |
| A/C refrigerant | R-134a; charge specified on under-hood label (often around 1.4–1.7 lb) |
Electrical
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Alternator | Around 130 A output depending on trim and equipment |
| 12V battery | Group size 24F/27F commonly used; Ah and CCA vary by brand |
| Spark plugs | Long-life platinum or iridium, typically 120,000-mile change interval |
Safety and Driver Assistance
For 2006–2007, the Sequoia predates modern ADAS suites. Safety hardware typically includes:
- Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, and side curtain airbags for at least the first two rows on many trims.
- ABS with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control (TRAC).
NHTSA provides frontal, side, and rollover star ratings for the 2006 Sequoia; frontal ratings are strong for the era, while rollover ratings reflect the height and mass of a large SUV. IIHS has not performed a full modern test program on this generation, so comparisons with current SUVs must account for updated procedures and stricter tests.
Sequoia RWD Trims and Safety
For 2006–2007 in the U.S., RWD Sequoias were mainly offered in SR5 and Limited trims, both using the same 4.7 V8 and 5-speed automatic. Regional packages and dealer options introduce variety, but the mechanical core is similar.
Trim Levels and Key Differences
SR5 (RWD)
The SR5 is the more utilitarian variant, though still well-equipped by mid-2000s standards.
Typical features:
- Cloth seats (power driver seat common), 7- or 8-passenger seating.
- Manual or single-zone automatic climate control; rear HVAC on many trucks.
- 16-inch alloy wheels, basic audio with optional upgraded systems.
- Roof rack, running boards, and tow hitch depending on packages.
Visual identifiers include simpler wheel designs, cloth interior, less chrome trim, and often no body-color fender flares.
Limited (RWD)
The Limited sits above the SR5 and targets buyers looking for more comfort and equipment.
Typical upgrades:
- Leather seating surfaces, often with heated front seats.
- Power moonroof, upgraded JBL audio, steering-wheel audio controls.
- 17-inch wheels on some builds, color-keyed body cladding, more chrome.
- Automatic tri-zone climate control, memory driver’s seat, additional interior trim.
Mechanically, the same V8, transmission, and brake packages are used; towing capacity is governed by axle/tow-package configuration rather than trim name alone.
Option Packages and Identifiers
Common options affecting hardware:
- Tow package: Upgraded hitch and wiring, auxiliary transmission cooler in some cases, and specific axle ratio. Look for a factory receiver integrated with the frame and a 7-pin trailer plug.
- Premium audio / navigation: Larger head unit, extra speakers, and often a subwoofer enclosure in the rear quarter panel.
- Captain’s chairs: Second-row buckets reduce seating from eight to seven; easy identifier when viewing interior photos.
Build codes and equipment details are printed on the driver-door jamb sticker and original window sticker (if available). Dealer systems and official online resources can decode VINs to confirm factory options such as tow packages and airbag configurations.
Safety Equipment and Ratings by Year
Both SR5 and Limited RWD models share the same basic crash structure and restraint systems for a given year. Differences in safety come mostly from option content, such as whether side curtains are fitted across all three rows.
Typical safety equipment includes:
- Front airbags with multi-stage deployment.
- Front seat-mounted side airbags.
- Side curtain airbags for first and second rows on most later trucks; third-row coverage varies by build.
- Lower anchors and tether points for child seats (LATCH/ISOFIX-equivalent) on second-row seats, plus top-tether anchors for rear-facing seats.
- ABS with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.
- Vehicle Stability Control and traction control as standard.
Advanced driver aids such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control were not offered from the factory on this generation. Buyers who want modern aids often retrofit features like backup cameras, parking sensors, or aftermarket head units with visual aids.
Calibration and Post-Repair Considerations
Because this generation lacks camera- and radar-based ADAS, electronic calibrations after body or windshield repairs are limited mainly to:
- Yaw-rate and steering-angle sensor zero-point calibrations after alignment, steering-rack replacement, or suspension work.
- Ensuring tyre sizes and pressures match recommended values so the stability control and ABS work as intended.
Any airbag or seat-belt work must follow the official repair manual, with correct resistance checks and SRS self-diagnostics before returning the vehicle to service.
Sequoia 2UZ-FE Reliability Notes
The 2UZ-FE V8 and accompanying driveline are well-regarded for longevity, but age and mileage introduce a predictable pattern of issues. It helps to think in terms of prevalence (common vs rare) and cost (low vs high).
Engine and Cooling
Common, low–medium cost
- Timing belt and water pump: The belt is durable but age-limited. Typical schedules call for replacement around 90,000–100,000 miles or 9–10 years, usually with the water pump, idlers, and front seals at the same time. Neglect risks belt failure and loss of drive, but the engine is generally considered non-interference. Parts and labor are a significant, yet predictable, expense.
- Valve cover and cam plug leaks: Hardened gaskets lead to oil seepage onto exhaust manifolds. Symptoms include oil smell and residue on the heads. Remedy is gasket replacement; it is smart to renew spark-plug tube seals at the same time.
Occasional, medium cost
- Radiator aging and cooler concerns: On any 15- to 20-year-old SUV, plastic tank radiators can crack or seep. Many owners pre-emptively replace the radiator, especially on tow vehicles, and inspect transmission fluid for discoloration.
- Starter motor wear: The V8 places the starter in the engine’s V, which adds labor for replacement. Symptoms include slow cranking or intermittent no-crank. Replacement with a quality unit is the fix.
Oil consumption is usually modest on healthy 2UZ-FE engines. Heavy consumption often points to PCV problems, neglected oil changes, or very high mileage rather than a fundamental design defect.
Fuel, Exhaust, and Emissions
- Oxygen sensors and catalytic converters: Age and heat eventually kill upstream oxygen sensors, triggering check-engine lights and off-target fuel trims. Catalytic converter theft is also a known risk on tall body-on-frame SUVs; replacement with OEM-grade parts can be expensive.
- Evap and fuel-tank venting: Leaks in evap hoses, cracked charcoal canisters, or a faulty purge valve can set codes. These failures are usually more about diagnosis time than high parts cost.
Transmission and Driveline
The Aisin 5-speed automatic is robust when serviced with proper fluid.
Common symptoms and fixes:
- Shift flare or harsh engagement: Often improved with a fluid exchange and, where applicable, updated transmission control software. Neglected ATF or overheating from heavy towing accelerates wear.
- Driveshaft vibration or clunk: Dry slip-yokes or worn U-joints can cause a thump on take-off or light vibration at cruise. Greasing the slip-yoke and replacing U-joints usually resolves this.
The RWD layout avoids the front differential, transfer case, and front CV-joint issues that can appear on 4WD trucks, reducing potential repair scope and cost.
Suspension, Steering, and Brakes
Common wear items:
- Lower ball joints and control-arm bushings: High vehicle weight, towing, and rough roads wear these components, leading to clunks, wandering, or uneven tyre wear. Quality replacements and an alignment typically restore feel.
- Rear control-arm and panhard-rod bushings: Worn bushings can cause rear-end shimmy or instability on bumps and during towing.
- Shock absorbers: Factory dampers are often well past their best by 150,000 miles. Upgraded shocks can dramatically improve body control and ride quality.
The brakes are straightforward truck hardware. Sticking caliper slide pins and warped front rotors appear on neglected examples; periodic cleaning and quality pads/rotors are usually enough to keep braking confidence high.
Body, Frame, and Electrical
- Frame and underbody corrosion: In road-salt regions, inspect frame rails, rear axle, fuel and brake lines, and body mounts carefully. Some Toyota body-on-frame vehicles have had frame-corrosion campaigns; even where there is no active program, rust can be the life-limiting factor.
- Rear hatch handle and latch: Plastic handles crack with age. Aftermarket metal handles are inexpensive and durable replacements.
- Window regulators and lock actuators: These see heavy use and eventually fail, especially on driver doors and tailgates.
Electronics are relatively simple. The most common failures involve aging audio head units, HVAC panel illumination, or worn switchgear rather than complex control modules.
Recalls, TSBs, and Coverage
There are several recalls affecting 2006–2007 Sequoias, including airbag campaigns and, on some trucks, stability-control or suspension items. Owners should:
- Run the VIN through the official recall lookup services and Toyota’s own site.
- Ask for dealer printouts or invoices showing completed campaigns.
- Verify airbag and stability-control recalls are resolved, as these materially affect safety.
Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) cover topics like updated oil standards, driveability under specific conditions, and various noise/vibration fixes. In some cases, a powertrain or stability-control reflash is the recommended remedy.
Maintenance Schedule and Buying Tips
Because these Sequoias are now well into high-mileage territory, maintenance history is more important than odometer readings alone. Below is a pragmatic schedule that aligns broadly with Toyota guidance for the era, adjusted for an older vehicle.
Core Maintenance Intervals (typical use)
- Engine oil and filter: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months using quality 5W-30 that meets Toyota specifications. Short-trip, dusty, or towing use justifies shorter intervals.
- Tyre rotation and pressure check: Every 5,000 miles; inspect tread wear and adjust alignment if there is feathering, cupping, or strong pull.
- Engine air filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles; replace roughly every 30,000 miles or sooner in dusty conditions.
- Cabin air filter: Every 20,000–30,000 miles or 2–3 years.
- Brake inspection: At least every 10,000–15,000 miles; flush brake fluid every 3 years regardless of mileage.
- Coolant: Super Long Life coolant typically first changed at 100,000 miles/10 years, then every 50,000 miles/5 years. For older trucks, many owners reset the clock when they buy and follow 5-year intervals.
- Spark plugs: Long-life plugs at roughly 120,000 miles or 10–12 years.
- Automatic transmission fluid: Drain-and-fill every 30,000–60,000 miles depending on towing, heat, and driving style; use Toyota WS or compatible fluid.
- Rear differential fluid: Every 30,000–60,000 miles using 75W-90 GL-5.
- Serpentine belt and hoses: Inspect annually; typically replaced around 90,000–120,000 miles or when cracking/glazing is obvious.
- Timing belt, tensioner, and water pump: Around 90,000–100,000 miles or 9–10 years, whichever comes first.
- 12V battery: Test yearly on older batteries; replacement interval often 4–6 years depending on climate and usage.
There is no high-voltage hybrid system to maintain on this model, so the focus remains on conventional fluids, rubber components, and chassis inspections.
Essential Torque and Fluid Notes
For DIY or informed owners, typical values (always verify in the official manual for your VIN):
- Oil drain plug: Around 39 Nm (about 29 lb-ft) with a new crush washer.
- Wheel lug nuts: Commonly around 80–90 lb-ft.
- Spark plugs: Usually around 13–15 lb-ft; if torque spec is unavailable, use correct tightening angle guidance for the plug type.
Confirm exact torque figures in official repair documentation before working on safety-critical systems.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
If you are shopping for a 2006–2007 Sequoia RWD, ask a trusted shop familiar with Toyota trucks to check:
- Frame and underbody: Look for heavy scaling, perforation, and crusted brake/fuel lines, especially near the rear axle and spare tyre.
- Timing-belt proof: Seek invoices showing belt, tensioner, and water pump replacement, not just a generic “timing service” line.
- Fluids: Engine oil, ATF, coolant, and differential fluid should be clean and at correct levels; burnt ATF or thick sludge are red flags.
- Suspension and steering: Check ball joints, tie rods, control-arm bushings, and shocks; test drive for clunks, wandering, and vibration.
- Brakes: Measure pad thickness and rotor condition; confirm there is no pulsation or pull under braking.
- Electrics and accessories: Verify window regulators, lock actuators, HVAC modes, rear hatch glass, audio/nav, and seat adjustments.
- Interior wear and water leaks: Inspect carpets and under-mats for moisture, especially in the rear cargo floor area and near sunroof drains on Limited trims.
- VIN-based recall check: Use official recall lookup tools to verify all campaigns are complete.
Recommended Years and Trims
Within the 2006–2007 facelift window:
- Best value: Many shoppers target 2006–2007 SR5 RWD with documented maintenance, clean underbody, and tow package if they plan to tow.
- Limited pros and cons: A Limited provides leather and more comfort, but leather can crack, and power seat modules are more complex and expensive.
It is usually smarter to choose a higher-mileage truck with meticulous records and a recent timing-belt job than a low-mileage example with unknown history.
Long-Term Durability Outlook
With regular fluids, preventative cooling-system work, and rust control, a Sequoia RWD can reasonably reach 250,000–350,000 miles before major drivetrain work is required. Many failures that do occur—suspension bushings, alternators, starters—are typical “consumables” rather than catastrophic design flaws. From a long-term ownership standpoint, the biggest threats are severe corrosion and neglect, not the fundamental engineering of the 2UZ-FE or the Aisin automatic.
Driving, Comfort and Real Economy
From behind the wheel, a 2006–2007 Sequoia RWD feels like what it is: a full-size, body-on-frame SUV tuned for comfort rather than sharp, sporty handling. The naturally aspirated 4.7 V8 is smooth and quiet at idle, with a gentle growl under load. Throttle response is linear, and thanks to VVT-i, torque builds early enough that the Sequoia moves off the line without strain, even when loaded with passengers and luggage.
The 5-speed automatic tends to shift early and smoothly in normal driving, keeping revs low and reducing noise. Kickdown is reasonably prompt, but not as quick as modern 8- or 10-speed units. Ratios are long, and the steps between gears are noticeable, yet the transmission avoids constant hunting. On steady highway runs, it settles into top gear and holds it unless faced with long grades or strong headwinds.
Ride, Handling, and NVH
On city streets, the Sequoia absorbs potholes and speed bumps with a soft, almost floaty feel. Body roll is evident in tight corners, but it is predictable and manageable. Steering is light with modest feedback; the truck is tuned to be easy to maneuver more than it is to be precise and sporty.
At highway speeds (around 65–75 mph), the Sequoia tracks straight and feels stable, particularly on quality tyres and fresh shocks. Crosswinds can nudge the tall body, but the long wheelbase and stability control help it settle quickly. Road and wind noise are reasonable for a large boxy SUV, though roof racks and aggressive all-terrain tyres will raise cabin noise.
Braking performance is adequate for the vehicle’s size and age. Pedal feel improves with quality pads, fresh fluid, and maintained caliper slide pins. For repeated downhill braking, using lower gears and engine braking is wise, especially when towing.
Real-World Fuel Economy
Official ratings for a 2WD Sequoia are roughly 15 mpg city and 18 mpg highway, with a combined rating around 16 mpg. In real-world use:
- City driving: 12–14 mpg is common, especially with short trips, cold starts, and heavy traffic.
- Highway at 65–70 mph: Many owners report 16–18 mpg under gentle conditions; headwinds, hills, roof boxes, and large tyres can drop that to 14–15 mpg.
- Mixed use: Expect 14–16 mpg overall for a typical suburban commute or mixed cycle.
RWD trucks enjoy a small advantage over 4WD trucks due to lower driveline drag and weight, but the difference is usually under 1 mpg. With a tank around 26.4 gallons, practical range is roughly 350–420 miles depending on driving style and reserve margin.
Towing and Load Behavior
When towing a mid-weight travel trailer or boat (3,000–5,000 lb), the Sequoia’s long wheelbase and stout frame provide a stable platform, especially with a weight-distributing hitch and brake controller. Coolant and transmission temperatures remain manageable if the cooling system is healthy, though downshifts to third or second gear on long grades are normal.
The main trade-offs are:
- Fuel economy often dropping into the 8–11 mpg range.
- Increased stopping distances if trailer brakes are not correctly set up.
With a full load of passengers and luggage, the rear suspension can sag somewhat. Fresh springs and quality shocks (or helper airbags) help maintain composure and headlight aim.
Daily Usability
In daily use, the Sequoia’s main compromises are size and fuel use. Parking in dense urban areas and tight garages can be challenging, and many owners retrofit backup cameras to aid visibility. However, the cabin is airy, with large windows and simple, clearly labeled controls, making it easy to place the vehicle once you get used to the footprint.
For long road trips, the Sequoia is in its element. Seats are supportive, the ride is relaxed, and the 4.7 V8 hums quietly at low rpm. Many owners treat it as a dependable, long-distance family hauler—more tool than toy, but one that inspires confidence on cross-country drives.
How Sequoia RWD Faces Rivals
When shopping for a 2006–2007 Sequoia RWD, most buyers also look at full-size American SUVs of the same era: Chevy Tahoe/Suburban, GMC Yukon, Ford Expedition, and Nissan Armada. Each has its own strengths; the Sequoia stands out in a few key areas.
Against Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon
Pros for the Sequoia:
- Powertrain durability: The 2UZ-FE V8 and Aisin automatic have an excellent long-term track record, with relatively few reports of major internal failures when maintained.
- Interior longevity: Toyota plastics and switchgear tend to age well, with fewer cracked dashboards and failing electronics than some competing trucks.
- Resale and parts support: Strong used-market demand and broad dealer/parts network.
Areas where Tahoe/Yukon may win:
- Power options: Some GM SUVs from this period offer higher-output V8s, which may feel stronger when towing heavy loads.
- Aftermarket depth: While the Sequoia has decent aftermarket support, GM trucks enjoy an even broader ecosystem and often cheaper parts.
Against Ford Expedition
Ford’s Expedition in the same era offers independent rear suspension (IRS), improving ride quality and third-row packaging. However:
- Complexity and maintenance: IRS adds more bushings and links. Over time, these can introduce extra noise, alignment issues, and maintenance cost.
- Engine choices: Ford’s modular V8s are competent but may not match the 2UZ-FE’s reputation for running very high mileages with minimal internal work.
Buyers prioritizing a slightly smoother ride and flat load floor may lean toward the Expedition; those prioritizing simple, heavy-duty mechanicals often gravitate to the Sequoia.
Against Nissan Armada and Infiniti QX56
The first-generation Armada and its Infiniti twin offer strong performance and generous towing, but:
- Rust and reliability: Many owners report more serious frame and suspension corrosion, along with more frequent drivetrain and electrical issues.
- Fuel economy: Consumption is similar to or worse than the Sequoia, with less of a reputation for long-term reliability.
For shoppers focused on long-term ownership and fewer surprises, the Sequoia usually feels like the safer choice, even if it is less flashy.
Who the Sequoia RWD Suits Best
The 2006–2007 Sequoia RWD is a strong fit if:
- You want a body-on-frame SUV that can handle family duties, road trips, and moderate towing.
- You value long-term reliability over the latest infotainment or driver-assistance tech.
- You live in a region where 2WD plus proper winter tyres is adequate, or your use is mostly dry-climate and highway.
It may not be ideal if:
- You face frequent snow or steep, unpaved roads and prefer the added traction of 4WD.
- You want modern ADAS features and crash performance measured under the latest testing protocols.
- Fuel costs are a primary concern and you would prefer a more efficient crossover or newer SUV.
For many buyers, though, a well-maintained Sequoia RWD offers a rare combination of space, mechanical honesty, and endurance. The key is to buy carefully—prioritizing rust-free examples with strong maintenance history—and to budget realistically for big-SUV consumables like tyres, brakes, and fuel.
References
- 2006 Toyota Sequoia Owner’s Manual and Scheduled Maintenance Guide 2006 (Owner’s Manual)
- 2006 TOYOTA SEQUOIA 4 DR RWD/AWD 2006 (Recall Database)
- Fuel Economy of the 2006 Toyota Sequoia 2006 (Fuel Economy Data)
- Used 2006 Toyota Sequoia Specs & Features 2006 (Specifications)
- 2006 Toyota Sequoia Owner’s Manual PDF 2016 (Owner’s Manual)
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, repair, or safety inspection. Specifications, torque values, and service intervals can vary by VIN, market, trim, and equipment package. Always verify critical data and procedures against the official Toyota service documentation and follow all applicable regulations and safety guidelines when inspecting, maintaining, or modifying your vehicle.
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