2013 Toyota Sequoia Gets Blu-Ray, Standard V8

Toyota has updated its eight-passenger Sequoia SUV for the 2013 model year, adding the Japanese automaker’s first Blu-Ray rear seat entertainment system and a 5.7-liter V8 as standard on all models (SR5, Limited, Platinum).

With 381-hp and 401 lb-ft of torque now standard, Toyota has done away with its 4.6-liter V8 with 310-hp for the new model year. 90-percent of its torque is available at 2,200 rpm, crucial for those towing with the Sequoia – which can now tow up to 7,400 lbs depending on trim thanks to the standard 5.7-liter. In addition, the 2013 Sequoia will be the first full year of Toyota Entune availability on the full-size SUV.

The Sequoia is offered in either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, and in select areas the 4×4 models will be available with E85 Flex Fuel capability. The SR5 model is one of the best-equipped vehicles in its class according to the automaker, and features a standard towing package, eight-way power driver’s seat, fog lights, running boards, power tilt/slid moonroof, roof rack, rear spoiler, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio and climate controls.

On the upgraded Limited model, Toyota adds 10-way adjustable power driver’s seat, leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear shift knob, Optitron gauges, and a multi-information display for the interior. Additional technology in the Sequoia Limited include front and rear parking sonar, power rear liftgate with a sliding window, power folding and reclining 60:40 split third-row seat, while the exterior gets 20-inch wheels.

As for the top-of-the-line Platinum model, dynamic laser cruise control is standard along with the new rear-seat Blu-Ray entertainment system. A first for the automaker, the high definition display is outputted through a nine-inch LCD screen with a separate rear seat audio system, including dual wireless headsets. Other upgrades in the Platinum include 12-way adjustable power driver’s seat, simulated wood trim, 20-inch diamond cut wheels, rear load-leveling air suspension, power seat memory package, second-row heated seats, and a steering wheel with simulated wood trim.