It's big, powerful and looking to take on the domestics at their own game. Of course, that's what Toyota said when it unveiled the original full-size Sequoia SUV, but the 2009 Toyota Sequoia is a far more serious effort. It's larger, more powerful and will get a new independent rear suspension and fold-flat third-row seat.
Built on the same platform as the new Tundra pickup, the next-generation Sequoia appears to have grown significantly in all dimensions. Most importantly, it looks wider than before, an area in which the current model suffers compared to its domestic competition.
The Sequoia's other major shortcoming — insufficient power to tow large trailers — should be taken care of as well. Given its shared Tundra platform, expect to see a similar drivetrain lineup.
We doubt you'll see the Tundra's base 4.0-liter V6 offered. Instead, base Sequoias will most likely come standard with Toyota's 4.7-liter V8 and a five-speed automatic. With 271 horsepower and 313 pound-feet of torque, the 4.7-liter V8 should deliver adequate performance and mileage for buyers looking more for interior space than towing performance.
Top-of-the-line models will get Toyota's new 5.7-liter V8 and a six-speed automatic transmission. With roughly 381 hp and more than 400 lb-ft of torque, the big 5.7 should give the 2009 Sequoia one of the highest tow ratings in the segment.
Just how high is hard to tell, as this Sequoia will use a new independent rear suspension in place of the current model's solid axle setup. Solid axles are usually the ticket for higher tow ratings, but Ford has proved that an independent setup can get the job done with its Expedition SUV.
One big reason for Toyota's switch to an IRS setup is packaging. An independent rear end not only delivers a smoother ride, it allows for more interior space in the third-row area. Our spy shooters caught Toyota's engineers testing out a pair of power-folding third-row seats that collapse flat into the floor. Ford currently offers the same setup in the Expedition, but GM's SUVs are still stuck with bulky seats that must be completely removed to open up additional cargo space. We also observed the same engineers utilizing a sizable under-floor storage space behind the third-row seats.
Look for the debut of the 2009 Toyota Sequoia at the Los Angeles auto show in November, with sales starting by the spring of 2008.
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