2006 Fullsize SUV : TOYOTA Sequoia

Launched during 2001, Toyota’s largest sport utility vehicle (SUV) evolved from the company’s Tundra pickup truck and is built at the same Indiana plant. At nearly 204 inches long overall, the Sequoia is considerably longer than the Japanese automaker’s Land Cruiser SUV. Sequoias exhibited a freshened exterior for 2005, which included a new front fascia and grille, standard over fenders and redesigned tail lamps with clear-lens covers.

The V-8 engine gained power and worked with a new five-speed-automatic transmission. The Sequoia seats up to eight people on two front captain’s chairs and two three-place bench seats. Occupants have plenty of room, and the Toyota Sequoia SUV offers abundant storage possibilities. Side curtain-type airbags that incorporate a roll-sensing feature and extend to protect second-row occupants became optional. Other than new second-row bucket seats in the SR5 Sport Package and revised engine output figures, little has changed for 2006.

Offered in SR5 and upscale Limited trim levels, the Sequoia is priced lower than Toyota’s luxurious Land Cruiser but higher than its midsize 4Runner. All three SUVs are truck-based. Sequoias can be equipped with either rear- or four-wheel drive.