2008 Toyota Sequoia

OVERVIEW

Market research for the all-new Toyota Sequoia included an Internet questionnaire to determine how SUV owners use their vehicles. So there must be an awful lot of people transporting items up to 11 feet in length, because that’s how much this new vehicle can swallow.

The Sequoia also has a towing capacity of up to 10,000 pounds and an optional air suspension package with variable settings. And though it won’t be seen in the same green light as other Toyota products, the company has at least been gracious enough to make the 5.7-liter version ULEV-II compliant.

This big, new V8 is mated to an also-new six-speed auto transmission. Or buyers may choose the 4.7-liter V8, carried over from the outgoing model that’s hooked up to a five-speed slushbox. For a big machine, its 19-foot turning radius is impressive, the tightest in its class. An all-new interior has three rows of seats plus the usual options for DVD players, etc.

UNDER THE HOOD

4.7-liter V8276 hp @ 5,400 rpm314 lb-ft @ 3,400 rpm14/17mpg (2WD)13/16mpg (4WD)

5.7-liter V8381 hp @ 5,600 rpm401 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm14/19 mpg (2WD)13/18 mpg (4WD)

WHEN?

To be announced.

HOW MUCH? To be announced. For ballpark purposes, the 2007 model starts at $33,160.

OUR TAKE

The Sequoia is as much part of the American landscape as the tree it’s named after. For those who absolutely must have a full-size SUV that’s absolutely reliable, this would be an obvious choice. And the 5.7-liter version appears to have no gas penalty compared with the 4.7.