The rear wheel drive Toyota Sequoia USK60 with the 5.7 litre 3UR-FE V8 is very much a “classic” full-size SUV: body-on-frame, serious towing capacity, and a naturally aspirated engine that feels unstressed even when fully loaded. Built for the North American market from 2008 to 2017, this generation pairs a 381 hp V8 with a six speed automatic and a roomy three row interior that can genuinely carry adults and cargo at the same time.
For buyers and owners, the appeal is simple: a tough drivetrain shared with the Tundra, straightforward mechanicals, and a reputation for long service lives if maintenance is kept up. The trade offs are familiar too—fuel consumption, size, and age related wear on suspension and electronics. This guide walks through the exact specs for the RWD USK60 Sequoia with the 3UR-FE, explains how it drives and tows in the real world, and highlights what to watch for in terms of reliability, safety, and long term ownership costs.
Fast Facts
- 5.7 litre 3UR-FE V8 and six speed automatic give strong, relaxed performance even with eight passengers or a trailer.
- RWD Sequoia USK60 tows up to around 7,400 lb (≈3,356 kg) when properly equipped, with generous payload and cargo volume.
- Real world fuel economy typically sits near 15 mpg combined (≈15.7 l/100 km), so fuel costs are a major ownership factor.
- Secondary air injection system, exhaust manifolds, and rear air suspension (Platinum) are among the more common higher cost repairs as the truck ages.
- Routine maintenance baseline: tyre rotation every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) and oil changes every 5,000–10,000 miles (8,000–16,000 km) or 6–12 months, depending on use and oil type.
Navigate this guide
- Toyota Sequoia USK60 ownership
- Sequoia 5.7 specifications detail
- Sequoia trims and safety tech
- Long term reliability and issues
- Ownership maintenance and buying advice
- Real world driving and performance
- Toyota Sequoia rivals and alternatives
Toyota Sequoia USK60 ownership
The second generation Sequoia (chassis code XK60, with USK60 for RWD 5.7 V8 models) is Toyota’s North American full-size SUV based on the Tundra pickup frame. It offers three rows of seating, a large cargo area, and a towing oriented suspension tune. The RWD USK60 variants covered here are the simpler, rear drive versions sold from model year 2008 through 2017 with the 3UR-FE 5.7 litre V8 as their defining feature.
Positioned against the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, Ford Expedition, and Nissan Armada, the Sequoia trades cutting edge technology for robustness. The V8 uses port fuel injection rather than direct injection, a conventional six speed torque converter automatic, and a ladder frame with independent front and rear suspension. That recipe is not light, but it is durable and easy to service for most independent workshops.
In day to day use, owners value several core traits:
- Space and flexibility – wide second row, genuinely usable third row, and a flat load floor when the rear rows are folded.
- Strong towing ability – tow ratings in the 7,000+ lb range with the correct package.
- Predictable driving manners – truck like, but with independent rear suspension that rides more smoothly than the related Tundra.
At the same time, you must be comfortable with its size and thirst. Manoeuvring and parking in tight European style cities is challenging, and real world fuel economy often sits in the low to mid-teens in mpg. Insurance, tyres, and brakes are also “big SUV sized” costs.
From an age and mileage perspective, almost every 2008–2017 Sequoia is now an older, high mileage vehicle. That shifts the ownership focus from depreciation (mostly done) to condition, rust, and service history. A well maintained USK60 can still be an outstanding long distance tow and family vehicle; a neglected one can be an expensive project. The sections below aim to help you tell which is which.
Sequoia 5.7 specifications detail
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 models. It uses a 90° V layout, double overhead camshafts with 4 valves per cylinder, and Dual VVT-i on intake and exhaust camshafts.
Key engine data (USK60 RWD 5.7):
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine code | 3UR-FE |
| Layout and cylinders | 90° V8, DOHC, 4 valves/cyl |
| 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 (PFI) |
| Max power | 381 hp (284 kW) @ 5,600 rpm |
| Max torque | 401 lb ft (544 Nm) @ 3,600 rpm |
| Recommended fuel | 87 AKI (regular unleaded), E10 compatible |
| Emissions class (US) | ULEV II on most gasoline variants |
Official fuel economy for a representative mid-cycle RWD Sequoia 5.7 is around 15 mpg combined, 13 mpg city and 17 mpg highway. In practice, owners towing or running mostly in city traffic often see low teens, while gentle highway cruising around 65–70 mph (105–115 km/h) can approach or slightly exceed the highway figure.
From a performance standpoint, the 5.7 V8 gives the Sequoia brisk acceleration for its size. Independent testing of similar 5.7 V8 Sequoias shows 0–100 km/h around 6.7–7.0 seconds and 0–60 mph in the mid sixes, depending on load and test conditions.
Transmission and driveline
All RWD 3UR-FE Sequoias use a six speed automatic transmission:
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6 speed automatic with manual mode (AB60E family) |
| Drive type | Rear wheel drive (RWD) |
| Gear ratios | 1st 3.333, 2nd 1.960, 3rd 1.353, 4th 1.000, 5th 0.728, 6th 0.588, reverse 3.061 (typical AB60E set) |
| Final drive ratio | Around 3.90 (varies slightly by year/trim) |
| Differential | Open rear differential; electronic traction and stability control handle wheelspin |
The driveline is tuned more for smoothness and towing control than for sporty response. A “manual” gate on the shifter allows the driver to hold gears when towing or on grades, which is especially helpful on long descents.
Chassis and dimensions
Dimension values below are representative; exact numbers vary slightly by year and trim.
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | Body-on-frame, Tundra based |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, coil springs, anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent double wishbone, coil springs (air suspension on some Platinum trims) |
| Steering | Rack and pinion, power assisted |
| Front brakes | Ventilated disc |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated disc |
| Wheels/tyres (typical) | 275/65 R18 or 275/55 R20, SUV all-season or all-terrain |
| Length | ≈ 5,210 mm (205.1 in) |
| Width | ≈ 2,030 mm (79.9 in) |
| Height | ≈ 1,955–1,960 mm (≈77 in, varies by trim/roof rails) |
| Wheelbase | ≈ 3,100 mm (122.0 in) |
| Ground clearance | ≈ 252 mm (9.9 in) |
| Curb weight (RWD 5.7) | ≈ 2,600 kg (≈5,730 lb) |
| GVWR | ≈ 3,220 kg (≈7,100 lb) |
| Fuel tank | 100 L (26.4 US gal) |
| Cargo volume | ≈ 535 L behind 3rd row / ≈ 3,400 L seats folded (≈18.9 / 120 ft³) |
Performance and capability
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) | ≈ 6.7–7.0 s (unladen) |
| Top speed | Electronically limited (typical for large SUVs) |
| Braking 100–0 km/h | Around upper 30 m range, depending on tyres and test conditions |
| Max towing capacity (braked) | Up to about 3,356 kg (7,400 lb) with tow package, RWD 5.7 |
| Max payload | Around 620–650 kg (≈1,350–1,430 lb) depending on trim |
| Roof load | Typically ~75–100 kg (check door jamb label/owner’s manual) |
Fluids and service capacities (typical 3UR-FE Sequoia)
Values here are approximate and may vary slightly by year; always confirm against the exact owner’s or service manual for your VIN.
| System | Specification (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Engine oil | 0W-20 (or 5W-20 where specified), API SL/SM/SN; ~7.0 L (7.4 US qt) with filter |
| Engine coolant | Long-life coolant, ~13–14 L total fill |
| Automatic transmission fluid | Toyota ATF WS; ~11 L total capacity (drain and refill uses less) |
| Rear differential | GL-5 75W-85 gear oil; ~3.6–3.8 L |
| A/C refrigerant | R-134a, charge specified on underhood label |
Typical torque values (always check your manual):
- Engine oil drain plug: about 40 Nm (30 lb ft)
- Wheel lug nuts: roughly 130 Nm (95–100 lb ft)
Electrical and ignition
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Alternator | Around 180 A output on many 5.7 V8 tow package trucks |
| 12 V battery | Group 27F or similar, typically 710–750 CCA |
| Spark plugs | Long life iridium; replacement interval often 120,000 miles (193,000 km) |
Safety and driver assistance
The 2008–2017 Sequoia was designed before the latest generation of active safety became standard. Equipment varies by year and trim, but typically includes:
- Front, side, and curtain airbags
- ABS, stability control, and traction control
- Tyre pressure monitoring
- Rear view camera (standard on later years, optional on early ones)
Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as automatic emergency braking or lane keeping were not fitted on most of this generation. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert appear on some later Platinum trims, but lane centring, adaptive cruise with stop and go, and similar systems are absent.
Sequoia trims and safety tech
Trims and options (RWD 5.7 focus)
Across 2008–2017, the core trim walk for USK60 RWD Sequoias is:
- SR5 – entry model, cloth or basic leather, bench or captain’s chairs in the second row, simpler audio and fewer luxury features. Tow package often optional.
- Limited – more comfort equipment: leather, upgraded audio, power tailgate, larger wheels, front parking sensors, more convenience features.
- Platinum – top trim, generally includes adaptive rear air suspension, premium JBL audio, navigation, rear entertainment and more driver comfort features.
Mechanical differences by trim are modest. The 5.7 V8 and six speed automatic are standard across the range for the 3UR-FE line, and the RWD hardware is common. Key variations:
- Tow package – often includes hitch receiver, heavy duty engine and transmission cooling, and trailer wiring. It is standard or common on many Limited and Platinum trucks and optional on SR5. Confirm presence if towing is important.
- Wheel and tyre packages – SR5 typically on 18 in wheels, Limited/Platinum often 20 in. Larger wheels sharpen steering response but transmit more road noise and are more expensive to replace.
- Rear air suspension – mainly Platinum. It improves level control under load but adds complexity and potential future repair cost when bags or the compressor age.
Quick ways to identify trims:
- Badges on the tailgate (SR5, Limited, Platinum).
- Interior clues – wood trim and rear entertainment screens often signal Platinum; simpler audio and cloth seating usually mean SR5.
- VIN decoding and the build sticker in the driver’s door opening give the definitive equipment list.
Year-to-year safety and equipment changes
Over its production run, the Sequoia saw gradual updates rather than radical changes. Highlights include:
- Infotainment – newer model years have more modern head units, better Bluetooth integration, and, in some trims, improved navigation graphics and larger screens.
- Cameras and sensors – rear vision cameras moved from option to standard, and additional parking sensors became more common on higher trims.
- Flex fuel variants – some Sequoias in this period used the 3UR-FBE flex fuel version of the engine, identifiable by badging and VIN. These can run on E85 but demand more frequent oil changes when flex fuel is used heavily.
Safety ratings summary
Because crash test programs evolved over the Sequoia’s lifecycle, ratings are incomplete:
- Rollover ratings – 2WD models typically receive four out of five stars for rollover, reflecting the high centre of gravity of large SUVs but also the stability control systems fitted.
- Full crash series – the generation did not always receive complete testing from every body, and some tests (such as small overlap) were introduced after the Sequoia was designed.
Child seat provisions include LATCH anchorages in the second row and top tether anchors farther back. The wide second row makes it relatively easy to fit bulky rear facing seats, but access to the third row with seats installed can take some planning.
ADAS remains minimal by modern standards. Even late trucks lack automatic emergency braking and lane keeping; blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert on high trims help compensate when changing lanes or reversing, but drivers transitioning from a modern crossover will notice the simpler safety suite.
Long term reliability and issues
The Sequoia’s reputation rides mainly on the 3UR-FE V8 and the AB60 series six speed automatic. Both have proven durable in high mileage Tundras and Sequoias when serviced properly. Many examples exceed 200,000 miles (320,000 km) on the original long block and transmission.
However, age, usage and climate bring recurring patterns of wear and failure. It helps to think in terms of prevalence and severity.
Common to occasional issues
- Secondary air injection system (SAIS)
- Prevalence: common on ageing trucks, especially in wet climates.
- Symptoms: check engine light, limp mode, codes related to secondary air injection pumps/valves.
- Cause: moisture and corrosion in the pump and switching valves, sometimes debris ingestion.
- Remedy: replace pumps and valves with updated parts; in some markets, updated calibrations help reduce recurrence.
- Exhaust manifold cracks/leaks
- Prevalence: occasional but widely reported on high mileage 3UR-FE trucks.
- Symptoms: ticking sound on cold start that quietens as metal expands, exhaust leak noises, sometimes exhaust smell under hood.
- Cause: thermal cycling and stress at the manifold, sometimes aggravated by towing and heavy loads.
- Remedy: replace the affected manifold(s); labour is significant due to tight access, so this is usually a higher-cost repair.
- Cooling system wear
- Prevalence: typical for age/mileage.
- Symptoms: coolant seepage, sweet smell, low coolant warnings, overheating if neglected.
- Cause: aged radiator, hoses and water pump seals; occasionally internal radiator failures that can contaminate transmission fluid if the cooler is integrated.
- Remedy: proactive replacement of water pump, radiator and hoses around 10–15 years/150,000 miles, or earlier in harsh conditions.
- Front and rear suspension wear
- Prevalence: common by 100,000–150,000 miles (160,000–240,000 km), especially on rough roads or with towing.
- Symptoms: clunks, wandering steering, uneven tyre wear, vibration, looseness over bumps.
- Cause: worn control arm bushings, ball joints, sway bar links and rear bushings.
- Remedy: refresh suspension components; alignment afterwards is essential.
- Rear air suspension (Platinum)
- Prevalence: occasional to common on older Platinum trucks.
- Symptoms: sagging rear end, compressor running frequently, “check suspension” warnings.
- Cause: leaks in air bags or lines, ageing compressor, moisture in the system.
- Remedy: replace air springs and/or compressor; some owners convert to coil springs to eliminate the system altogether.
- Corrosion
- Prevalence: highly climate dependent; common in rust belt or coastal regions.
- Areas: frame rails, rear axle housing, brake lines, tow hitch and body seams.
- Impact: structural rust can be a safety issue and very costly to repair. Surface rust can usually be arrested with cleaning and treatment if caught early.
Driveline and gearbox
The six speed automatic in the Sequoia is generally robust. Problems such as shift flare, harsh engagements or shudder are more often linked to fluid neglect, contamination or towing in very hot conditions than to inherent design flaws. Many owners run lifetime factory fluid; a more conservative approach is to do periodic drain-and-fill services (not power flushes) every 60,000–90,000 miles (100,000–150,000 km), especially for frequent towing.
The RWD layout simplifies things relative to 4WD models: there is no transfer case to service and one fewer differential. Propshaft universal joints and centre support bearings can still wear at high mileage and should be checked for play and vibration.
Recalls, TSBs and extended coverage
Across 2008–2017, Sequoias have been subject to several recalls and technical service bulletins (TSBs), including:
- Takata airbag recalls – affecting many Toyota trucks and SUVs from this era; airbag inflators were replaced under recall campaigns.
- Wheel stud or steering related recalls in some years, covering potential cracking of wheel studs or steering rack concerns.
- Various software and calibration updates for engine, transmission and stability control systems.
Because recall coverage and TSB applicability depend on build date, market and VIN, always:
- Run the VIN through the official recall checker in your region.
- Ask a Toyota dealer for a printout of completed and outstanding campaigns.
Pre purchase reliability checks
For a used Sequoia USK60, it is wise to:
- Request full service records including timing of coolant, transmission fluid and spark plug changes.
- Have a trusted workshop do a pre purchase inspection with the truck on a lift, checking frame rust, oil leaks, suspension play, brake condition and tyre age.
- Scan for stored fault codes, especially SAIS, transmission, airbag and ABS codes.
- For Platinum trims, operate the rear air suspension through full range and check for leaks and warning messages.
- Check that recalls have been completed and that the airbag warning lamp behaves normally on start-up.
A well maintained example with clean underbody, fresh fluids and documented recalls is a far safer bet than a lower priced, rusty truck with unknown history.
Ownership maintenance and buying advice
Practical maintenance schedule (baseline)
Toyota’s official maintenance schedules for this generation use 5,000 mile service steps with tyre rotation every 5,000 miles and engine oil change intervals up to 10,000 miles/12 months with synthetic oil in normal service. For older, heavy, tow focused V8s like the Sequoia, many experienced mechanics recommend somewhat shorter intervals, especially for hard use.
A sensible compromise schedule for a 3UR-FE Sequoia that sees mixed use:
- Engine oil and filter – every 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km) or 6–12 months with quality synthetic 0W-20/5W-20 that meets Toyota specifications. Use the shorter interval for heavy towing, hot climates, short trip use, or flex fuel operation.
- Tyre rotation – every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) to even wear and maximise lifespan.
- Engine air filter – inspect every 15,000 miles; replace about every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or sooner if driving in dusty conditions.
- Cabin air filter – inspect yearly; many owners replace every 1–2 years.
- Spark plugs – typically around 120,000 miles (193,000 km) or 10 years; consider earlier replacement if misfires or poor fuel economy appear.
- Coolant – first change around 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.
- Differential fluid – every 60,000–90,000 miles; more often in heavy towing.
- Brake fluid – every 2–3 years regardless of mileage to prevent moisture buildup and corrosion.
- Serpentine/aux belt – inspect from 60,000 miles onwards; replace by around 100,000 miles or at first signs of cracking or noise.
- Suspension and steering – quick check at every oil change; more detailed inspection annually.
- 12 V battery – test yearly after year 4–5; replace proactively around 6 years in cold climates or when capacity tests low.
The 3UR-FE uses a timing chain, not a belt, so there is no fixed replacement interval. Instead, listen for chain rattle on cold start and monitor timing correlation codes at high mileage. If noise and diagnostic data indicate wear, chain, guides and tensioners can be replaced as a major service.
Fluid choices and capacities (decision level)
For planning purchases and workshop conversations:
- Engine oil – 0W-20 or 5W-20, API SN or newer; capacity about 7.0 L (7.4 qt) with filter for the 3UR-FE.
- Coolant – Toyota Super Long Life (pink) or equivalent; expect to buy at least 2× larger containers for a full flush.
- ATF – Toyota WS; a single drain and fill typically uses 3–4 L, while full exchange requires more.
- Brake fluid – DOT 3 or DOT 4 depending on market; DOT 4 is a common upgrade if compatible with seals and system design.
These choices give you a starting point; always adjust to local climate, regulations and the specific recommendations in your manual.
Buyer’s checklist
When inspecting a used USK60 Sequoia:
- Rust and structure
- Inspect frame rails, crossmembers, rear axle housing, tow hitch and body seams. If you can push a screwdriver into the frame, walk away.
- Engine bay
- Look for oil seepage around valve covers, front timing cover and rear main area.
- Check coolant colour and level; look for crusty deposits around water pump and radiator.
- Underside and driveline
- Look for transmission fluid leaks, weeping differential seals, dented or corroded transmission pan, wetness around propshaft seals.
- Suspension and tyres
- Uneven tyre wear suggests alignment or suspension issues. Listen for clunks over bumps on the test drive and check for wandering or looseness in the steering.
- Brakes
- Check for judder on light braking from highway speed, which can indicate warped front rotors. Inspect pad thickness and look for heavily grooved discs.
- Interior and electrics
- Test all power windows, seat adjustments, HVAC modes (including rear climate), rear entertainment, central locking and sunroof operation.
- Paperwork
- Service records showing regular oil changes and at least occasional ATF, differential and coolant services are valuable.
- Confirm recall status is clear via official tools, and note any extended warranty or goodwill repairs already carried out.
Recommended years and trims
Because the 3UR-FE and gearbox changed little over the 2008–2017 period, choice is mainly about condition, rust, equipment and price. Some broad tips:
- Later model years (around 2013–2017) usually have fresher interiors, improved head units and slightly more safety equipment.
- SR5 is easiest to keep running cheaply due to fewer complex features; Platinum offers the most comfort but brings air suspension and more electronics to maintain.
- Flex fuel (3UR-FBE) versions add versatility but are best for owners willing to do shorter oil intervals when using E85 regularly.
Overall long term durability, provided major rust is absent and maintenance is sound, is very good for a large SUV: 15–20 years and 200,000+ miles are realistic targets when maintained.
Real world driving and performance
Powertrain character
The 5.7 3UR-FE is the star of the Sequoia’s driving experience. It starts quietly, pulls strongly from low revs, and stays smooth to the redline. There is no turbo lag to manage; instead, you get linear throttle response and a broad torque plateau. Full throttle acceleration is brisk for a vehicle of this size, with the engine sounding more muted and refined than many truck V8s.
The six speed automatic generally shifts smoothly and unobtrusively. In normal driving it tends to use higher gears early for economy, but a firmer throttle opening quickly calls up lower gears. When towing or in hilly terrain, using the manual shift gate to hold a lower gear improves engine braking and prevents gear hunting.
Ride, handling and NVH
A RWD Sequoia feels every bit its size, but not crude:
- Ride – with standard coil rear suspension, ride quality is compliant and well controlled, particularly with 18 inch wheels. Platinum models on 20 inch wheels and optional air suspension may feel slightly busier over small sharp bumps but handle load changes better.
- Handling – steering is light with limited feedback, tuned more for stability and ease of use than precision. Body roll is noticeable but predictable; the independent rear suspension helps avoid the “rear axle hop” of some solid axle SUVs.
- Noise – wind and road noise are well suppressed for a body-on-frame truck; the V8 is mostly quiet at cruise and only really audible under heavier throttle.
At highway speeds (110–120 km/h), the Sequoia tracks straight and feels composed, though crosswinds remind you of its height and frontal area. Good tyres and correct pressures make a big difference to steering feel and braking performance.
Efficiency in the real world
Typical owner reported figures for a RWD 5.7 Sequoia:
- City: 11–14 mpg US (17–21 l/100 km)
- Highway (100–120 km/h): 16–19 mpg US (12–15 l/100 km)
- Mixed: around 14–16 mpg US (15–17 l/100 km)
These align closely with the official combined ratings. Towing a medium sized travel trailer or boat often reduces fuel economy by 20–30%.
Cold climates, short trips and roof loads all hurt fuel use further; conversely, gentle highway cruising with light loads gives the best numbers you will see.
Load carrying and towing behaviour
Loaded with passengers and luggage, the Sequoia remains stable and composed, thanks to its long wheelbase and strong rear suspension. For towing within the rated around 7,400 lb (3,356 kg) limit, owners typically report:
- Confident acceleration and merging thanks to the 381 hp V8.
- Strong, stable braking when trailer brakes are correctly set; brake pads and rotors are large but will wear faster under frequent towing.
- Transmission temperatures that stay acceptable if the tow/haul mode is used and fluid is in good condition.
With higher tongue weights or in crosswinds, a quality weight distributing hitch and trailer brake controller are recommended for best control. Regular inspection of hitch hardware, trailer wiring and brake controller function should be part of your towing routine.
Toyota Sequoia rivals and alternatives
When considering a Sequoia USK60, it helps to set it against peers from the same era.
Versus Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban
GM’s Tahoe/Suburban twins of the same years often deliver:
- Better fuel economy, especially with later six speed or eight speed transmissions and 5.3 V8s.
- Wider availability of modern infotainment and options like magnetic ride control on some trims.
However, the Sequoia counters with:
- A simpler, port injected V8 (no cylinder deactivation hardware).
- Very competitive interior space and a flat, usable cargo floor with seats folded.
- A strong reputation for long term mechanical robustness.
For buyers prioritising running costs and dealer availability, a Tahoe may appeal. For those prioritising long term mechanical robustness and who accept the fuel costs, the Sequoia is compelling.
Versus Ford Expedition
The 2008–2014 Expedition uses a 5.4 V8, while later versions move to the 3.5 EcoBoost V6. Compared to the Sequoia:
- Earlier Expeditions have softer ride and sometimes better third row comfort, but the 5.4 can feel less strong and has its own well known timing and cam phaser issues.
- EcoBoost powered Expeditions in later years tow very well and can beat the Sequoia on fuel economy, but at the cost of turbo complexity and more sensitive maintenance requirements.
The Sequoia’s naturally aspirated 5.7 has fewer high tech failure modes and tends to age gracefully if maintained.
Versus Nissan Armada (first generation)
The first generation Armada is another body-on-frame V8 SUV with strong towing specs. It often sells cheaper on the used market, but:
- Rust and body integrity troubles are more common in some markets.
- Interior quality and long term electronics reliability generally trail Toyota’s typical standards.
For buyers with tight budgets, a carefully inspected Armada can be an option, but in many regions a clean Sequoia with good history commands and deserves a higher price.
Who the Sequoia USK60 suits best
The RWD 5.7 Sequoia is a good fit if you:
- Regularly move large families plus luggage or pets.
- Tow boats, car trailers, or travel trailers within its rating.
- Value a naturally aspirated, under stressed V8 and conventional automatic.
- Plan to keep the vehicle many years and can invest in proactive maintenance and rust prevention.
It is less ideal if you mostly drive in dense cities, rarely use the full space or towing ability, or are particularly sensitive to fuel and tyre costs—in those cases, a smaller crossover or a newer, more efficient SUV may be a better match.
References
<a href="https://www.toyota.com/t3Portal/document/om-s/OM0C019U/pdf/OM0C019U.pdf">2015 Toyota Sequoia Owner’s Manual</a> 2015 (Owner’s Manual)<a href="https://www.toyota.com/t3Portal/document/omms-s/OM0C020U/pdf/OM0C020U.pdf">2015 Toyota Sequoia Warranty and Maintenance Guide</a> 2015 (Maintenance Guide)<a href="https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/bymodel/2015_Toyota_Sequoia.shtml">2015 Toyota Sequoia Fuel Economy</a> 2016 (Fuel Economy Data)<a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2015/TOYOTA/SEQUOIA/SUV/RWD">2015 Toyota Sequoia SUV RWD Test Results</a> 2016 (Safety Rating)</a><a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls">NHTSA Recalls Search by VIN</a> 2024 (Recall Database)
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, repair, or official service information. Specifications, torque values, maintenance intervals, and procedures can vary by VIN, model year, market, and equipment level. Always confirm critical data against the official owner’s manual, workshop manual, technical service bulletins, and other manufacturer documentation for your specific vehicle.
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