With a complete redesign for 2008, the first full overhaul in the Sequoia's history, Toyota's full-size SUV moves into its second generation of production. The new Sequoia is based on the recently redesigned Tundra pickup, but the upscale SUV is differentiated by a fully boxed frame and a rear independent suspension. The new model year brings significant revisions to platform, size, engine options, and trims.

The new Sequoia has been lauded for its superb ride quality for an SUV of its size, offering what reviewers have found to be a fine blend of acceleration, nimble handling, and soft suspension. While the increase in overall size has paid dividends for interior space, the vastness of the cabin has created some problems with ergonomics. Many drivers may have a rather difficult time with center-stack controls, especially for the navigation and audio systems. Sequoia pricing has also been the target of some criticism; while Toyota offers a rather reasonable entry price for the full-size SUV, adding all available amenities will increase the price by more than $20,000.

There are eight distinct Sequoias offered for 2008, with three trim levels, two engine options, and a choice of two-wheel or four-wheel drive. The SR5 is the entry point, equipped with basics like a 40/20/40 second-row bench seat, triple-zone automatic climate control, a CD audio system, an MP3 auxiliary jack and full power accessories. The Limited adds power front seats, leather upholstery, a premium JBL audio system and heated mirrors. Toyota has also added a new Platinum trim level this year, which is differentiated from the others by upscale amenities like a power liftgate, a sunroof, heated and cooled front seats, second-row captain's chairs, a navigation system, and a rear back-up camera. The sunroof and navigation are optional on the Limited.

Last year's 4.7-liter powerplant returns for 2008 as the base engine, with the option of upgrading to a new 5.7-liter V8. The SR5 is available with either engine, while the Limited and Platinum trims both come with the new V8 only. The 4.7-liter V8 delivers 276 horsepower and 314 lb-ft of torque, while the larger engine bumps the horses up to 381 and torque to 401 lb-ft. The smaller V8 is paired with a five-speed automatic, while the new 5.7-liter uses a six-speed. Toyota claims a 0-60 mph time of 6.7 seconds with the larger V8 and two-wheel drive train, along with a maximum towing capacity of 10,000 pounds.

The larger V8 also offers Toyota's new Dual Variable Valve Timing technology, which actually produces a more fuel efficient Sequoia than the 4.7-liter version. A Sequoia with the 5.7 earns an EPA rating of 14/19 mpg with 2WD, and 13/18 mpg with 4WD. The 4.7-liter uses the older VVT technology, offering mpg numbers of 14/17 mpg with two-wheel drive and 13/16 mpg with four-wheel drive.