Look, I'm not trying to offend anyone,and I'm sorry if I did, but seriously what good are 3 month customer surveys, compared to long term endurance tests done in a scientific manner with standards and controls. Consumer surveys are completely biased, and based on the knowledge or lack there of, of the buyers..
I special ordered a Sequoia equipped the way I wanted it. The vehicle now has 4000 miles on it and it has been PERFECT.I am glad I did not buy the GM product ie Tahoe / Yukon with the on going brake problems as well as the other problems posted on this board.The Ford product was not even a consideration based opon personal experience.I have owned two Ford products and I can tell you quality is not job one.The problems associated with these vehicles is so numerous that I can not say enough BAD things about Ford. I will never buy another Ford product.The Sequoia does cost more but in the long run it will be more reliable.The old saying of you get what you pay for certainly applies here.
I am looking for suggestions for good winter tires for my 4wd sr5. I need to be able to handle: deep snow, packed snow/ice, deep mud. Plus regular winter highway driving in hilly terrain.
According to Automotive News, there are some changes in store for the Lexus 470:
"The LX 470 will move off the Toyota Land Cruiser platform to the larger Sequoia platform for the 2005 model year. That means a much larger cabin as well as more towing capacity"
Saw your question, and am just beginning to research winter tires for my new Sequoia also. I live in Colorado mountains 9,600ft. elevation; lots of snow and ice. In the past, I have had good luck with Bridgestone Blizzaks on all 4 wheels. In fact, my last vehicle was a Ford Econoline 150 conversion van with rear wheel drive. I was never stuck while using the Blizzaks. However, a couple of the local tire guys are talking up a couple of other tires: Nokian Hakkapeliitta Q, Dunlop Grandtrek SJ 4 and Yokahama Guardex RV-340. Apparently all of these are using the softer tread compounds and unique tread designs for more traction in snow and on ice. I assume they all have websites to get more info. I just checked tirerack.com and they have some current test info info on 3 of the tires. Nokian website is nokiantires.com I'll post again after I get some better info. Let me know what you discover or decide on. chuck@mountaintees.com
I absolutely agree with you, as I posted in 3532. The 90-day survey is (almost) useless, and the long term performance should be considered more. Unfortunately, we cannot prove that for the Sequoia yet. Most of the Sequoias on the road are only in the 0-15,000 mile range.
I would really like to see a satisfaction or performance survey on the 3 YEAR OLD vehicles, which is the minimum length of manufacturer's bumper-to-bumper warranty these days. It is when the warranty expires that the quality issue begins to hurt the pocketbooks. While this may not be very useful for a particular model since they will change the model in another year, this will give an general benchmark of quality for the manufacturer.
Alternatively, they can make a survey in 2 years, which is the average "half-time" of a particular model.
Least of all, they can make a survey after one year, which is a longer time (than 90 days) for the owner to really get some sense of the quality of their vehicle.
Anything said about the first 90 days does not really speak very much about real quality.
I suggest that you seriously look at the Acura MDX. IMHO, it's rightly priced for what you get. Nice seating configuration, especially the disappearing third seat.
I would have bought the MDX, except that I did not really like it's minivan look. I still liked the mascular stance of the Sequoia. Looks are subjective (personal), and you might like it.
I also live in Colorado (although not as high as Tillicum) and I have Yokihamas on my Maxima. They are the best tires in the snow. No stiping required and they hold wonderfully! I hadn't even thought about changing the Seq. tires out but I might now.
If mreid72 has five kids he shouldn't even consider the MDX. I have four kids and own both a 2001 Sequoia and a 2001 MDX. The Sequoia fits the family with ease and allows for a friend or two and room for "stuff". The MDX fits three kids and two adults comfortably with room in the rear to carry stuff. While the rear seats of the MDX are very convenient for short trips and fold down right into the floor when not in use, they are not sufficient for long trips or anyone other than a small to medium sized kid. Also, you can carry very little gear when the third seats are in use.
The MDX is a fine vehicle but a family with 5 kids and 2 adults would be way overcrowded in an MDX and have no room for anything other than passengers.
BTW, I am within a few hundred miles of hitting 20,000 miles on my Sequoia. No problems and no complaints so far. It runs like a dream. I'd buy another in a heartbeat.
I'm kind of surprised that Heatwave3 has not come back with his source on the lame 90 day JDP survey (not!). Having just traded in a ridiculous American branded vehicle (4 transmissions on a 1996 vehicle), I promise not to be too impressed with such a survey. It took a whole year and a half for my first transmission to go and another nine months for the second one to fail. The second tranny lasted two whole years and I was able to trade it in just prior to having to install a 4th tranny. I'm not even going to get into the horrendous electrical system, which is now laughable since I no longer own the vehicle, but was far from laughable for the last 5 years. However, as I recall I still liked the thing 90 days after my purchase.
when I try to put a specific message number, it ignores it and go to a altogether different on. I am trying to look at what's been out there before I ask repeat questions. Is it that this board is broken? Thanks
If you "hover" over the underlined post number, the "true" number will show up in the status bar of your browser as the last number in the long string. Posts are deleted for any number of reasons, and it throws the "visible" post count off. (Your post is really #3908, for example). Steve Host Vans, SUVs and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
If the survey results on the Sequoia are so lame it shouldn't matter what the results said (of course, I suspect it would be cited in every post if the Sequoia was #1). If on the other had it matters, please feel free to contact Michael Greywitt @ (818) 889-6330 or John Tews @ (248) 267-6800 as they are the contacts listed at the survey result web site.
The info on the Sequoia being below the top three was posted at another site within Edmunds (I believe it was the comparo site forum between the Sequoia, Denali, Navigator and Escalade).
Your welcome to do your own research by contacting JDPowers directly if the information matters to you.
heatwave3: you are absolutely right... we cannot have it both ways :-)
wrt the answer from mike greywith being posted at another "comparison forum", the link is posted below, and it clearly shows that no response from jd powers have been received on the poster's request.
in closing, let us just agree to disagree that the Sequoia was and wasn't part of the JD Power survey. The real and ultimate test of quality will be left to the grains of time.... Years from now owners will find out which of these behemoths can withstand the test and torture and survive the abuse to justify the expenditure....
i am keeping my fingers crossed, but happy to say no problems with mine for 12K miles now...
oac3: Actually, the results can't be put to bed until they are known. Until then it is simply a question mark that can be ignored, investigated or assumed that the Sequoia was included since many other 2001 SUVs were in the evaluation.
I can't help it but to chime in on this subject. I think JDP survey is only good to measure the superficial quality control of a new vehicle. I think JPD would be more useful if it is used for measuring the quality of used automobiles from used car lots.
JDP rating is like a quality rating for your honeymoon that you have with your new car. The real measure should be about the period after the honeymoon is over. JDP survey is WORTHLESS in term of assessing the long term quality of a vehicle.
The question is that are most marriages in the long term as good as the honeymoons? With over 50% divorce rate, I think the answer is pretty obvious. As for human relationships with cars, I think the number is even worse.
In conclusion, JDP rating is a real joke. I think believing in it is like believing that 3-minutes abs machine workout each day would bring a 6-pack ab in 30 days.
If JD Power & associates compiled data from the public regarding the ranking of Large Suv's its no wonder that the Ford Expedition, Chev. Suburban, and the Chev. Tahoe were listed as the top three overall. I'm sure all three of these vehicles are superior to the Toyota Landcruiser and Toyota Sequoia in all areas. Not!!!!!!!!! If we all believed that to be true than maybe Elvis is still alive.
I have 8000 miles on my 4WD, SR5, Silver Sky Seq. Overall I'd say this is a 8 or 9(out of 10). I have had to bring it back to the dealer for the rear wiper adjustment and bad door light switch.
I've owned and driven Chevy's since I was 16. This is my first "Foreign" vehicle (although it's built in the U.S. and the Tahoe is built in either Mexico or the U.S.). After my 1996 Blazer spent more time going up and down than forward, I decided to look elsewhere.
I really like the Seq over the Exp. and Tahoe. Each has its advantages, and probably problems. However, based on my criteria, the Seq. is the best bet for me. I don't trailer anything larger than a small pop up, but I do need the interior space (I haul a 4'x4'x3' N scale train modules in the truck for the train club I belong to).
This truck is easy to drive, does NOT feel large, has enough power for me, and looks great. However, the 13 to 14 (Calc) MPG I get could be better, but I knew that going in.
The Seq. is not perfect, nothing is, but compared to the rest, it's the best one going.(note: personal opinion here).
School is back in session, so I guess it's time to write about our summer vacations. We drove from Austin, TX to Red River, NM. 2 kids and 2 adults with camping and fishing gear inside and 4 bikes riding on the receiver hitch. Plenty of room without blocking the driver's rear view. Great ride! Our toughest test was a 4WD road up to Goose Lake - only other vehicles were small Jeeps and ATVs - over boulders, through ponds, around tight switchbacks, and over narrow sections where the road was washing out. Our Sequoia performed flawlessly and I enjoyed the looks of admiration from the dads and horror from the moms. The lake and bighorn sheep were beautiful and only things missing were the trout!
I purchased my BIG RED SR5 in March and I love this car. I had an Explorer previously and felt very unsafe in the car. I get more compliments on the color and men stop me everywhere to ask questions about the car. Toyota should pay me for advertising for them. Have had no problems except for the horrible bass when the radio is on. I can live with that! Especially if that's the only problem I ever have. Just wanted to put some good thoughts down for you other SEQ owners. NO TICKING AT 5700 miles.
Be careful about what you say about GM, Mopar and FOMOCO products. You don't want to upset the NASCAR set. They really hate it when you laugh or cry out loud about past experiences with those products. Enjoy your Sequoia but don't admit that you like it on this board.
Our drive from Northern Va to Virginia beach showed 17.5 mgp in 4x4 mode, A/C on, 2 passengers, 2 doggies, bicycles, and stuffs for a 3-day vacationand back. The trip back showed 18.5 mpg.
We only saw one other Sequoia during the entire holiday weekend, and we got an inquiry and complement about the Sequoia.
pschreck: No need to be anything other than satisfied with whatever vehicle you own and drive. Unless of course you have a lousy experience.
Expressing your opinions about the quality and capabilities of the vehicle you own is very helpful to others shopping for similar vehicles. On the other hand if you express opinions about the vehicle you own or that someone else owns and position it as fact, don't be surprised if someone asks for your source or shares a source which contradicts your so called "facts".
Truth should never hurt if you are awake at the wheel.
I have posted (3223) previously regarding the AC not working. We took the SR5 to the Outerbanks for a two-week trip. It was wonderful to pack the truck and still be able to see out the windows. We even decided we had enough room to take our boxer/bull mastiff. Two days later at the beach the A/C will not turn off. None of the controls or buttons will work. I call the dealership and they tell me it is a glirch in the memory and to unplug the battery and the memory will reset. BIG MISTAKE...now nothing on the control panel works...and neither does the back A/C. They tell me to take it to the local dealership (it was an hour away).
I took it to the dealer on September 4th and they diagnosed that the ECU circuit board was bad. Of course, they have no parts on hand so they had to order it. I just got it back (they gave me a free oil change ) and it seems to be working fine..
Per post 3591 check your lemon law... In my state if the dealer has it a certain number of days it falls within the lemon law guidelines. When the A/C compressor was bad I had to wait 3 1/2 weeks for a new compressor.... I should have left it at the dealer because with it in the shop all the time I would of had new truck!!!
They had a heck of a time getting the freon to take in the back A/C unit (yes, it was in the shop for this also!)
Thank goodness winter is coming up and I will not have to deal with the A/C.
I love the truck except for the headrest in the rear seats make it very hard to get good visibility. I basically keep the third row seats flat all the time. Another plus!!! the seats are easy to take out and reinstall.
Misse - how long (and at what mph) did it take you to travel from Austin to Red River? My wife and I are thinking about (in addition to a Seq, once I can convince her it's not too big) a ski trip to RR/Taos/AF this winter. (Sorry Moderator I know this is off topic...)
We almost always overnight, rather than push the kids and have to set up camp in the dark. We left at 11:00 A.M. and arrived in Santa Rosa, NM at 10:00 P.M. CST (9:00 Mountain Time), taking time for barbecue (Coopers' in Llano was wall to wall people, so we had to settle for Brady), ice cream, and pizza stops. It's just a few hours from Santa Rosa to Red River, but we stopped at the Glorietta Battle site and Maria's Cafe in Santa Fe for lunch.
On the return, we left Cimmaron, NM (east of Red River) at 11:00 A.M, stopping to look at bison along the way and Estella's in Las Vegas for lunch. We made it back to Austin at 2 A.M. CST, so I guess the answer is about 14 hours.
With the disappearing third seat of the MDX, there will be plenty of room for the twin stroller or two separate strollers. Of course, I would also highly recommend the SEQ and the rear seats can also be removed or folded for more space. I personally know of people who own a Tahoes and Yukons and they are happy with them too. So mreid should try as many of these SUVs as possible to get a more educated decision.
A major issue that people with kids at "carseat ages" have to consider carefully is the riding confort of the third seat for adults. Take this scenario, for example. A family with at least two kids in carseats go on trips to visit the grandparents. Going there, it's no problem. There's room for everyone. When they get there, the grandparents go around town with them. Since it is much more difficult to put the car seats on the third row seats, the only option is to put the grandparents there. Some of the "full-size SUVs" DO NOT have enough space for adults in the third row. It's somewhat bumpy there too, at least for my SEQ.
Ironically, when the kids are already big enough for seatbealts, the seating arrangment becomes very different and a smaller third row may be okay. The kids will be on the third row seats, which is confortable enough for them until they get to be teenagers.
We have already experienced a kids/grandparents scenario as described by toyotatoys. We actually found it easier to put the 3 year old in her carseat in the third seat, with mommy, the 6 month old in the second on the driver side, with grandma next to her, and me and my dad in the front. Worked like a charm. I have carried as five kids and two adults (taking my 3 year olds class to the zoo), or 6 adults (with two in each seat for an hour each way) with no complaints... I think it is easier getting in and out of the seq third row than my in-laws mini-van.
There was a recent comment about the height of the seq making toddler access difficult... with running boards, my 3 year old has no problem climbing in and out... except that it has become a bit of a game. My 72 year old parents also made it in and out without too much problem (the many grab holds help)... easier than my old 2 door 4 rnnr.
We are seriously considering getting a Sequoia and recently took one for a test drive. We currently own a Jeep Grand Cherokee, and one of the first things we notice while driving the Sequoia was it was very difficult to see traffic on the right side of you. More specifically when you look over your right shoulder, to see what's to the right of you, the high seats and the structure of the vehicle really block the view. Also, because of the size of the Sequoia we took it to a mall parking lot and experimented with parking issues...pulling in and backing out of parking spots. Admittingly it did seem difficult to handle and gague the surroundings. My question for the board - did others experience this at first and get then eventually get used to it? How long did it take? Any feedback on these handling issues would be appreciated. Also, anyone who has children in carseats, any pros and cons for having to lift the up kids in the Sequoia since it's higher compared to other vehicles/minivans. Thanks in advance!
You are correct, it is difficult to see when looking over your right shoulder. I voiced this concern to a truck driver friend after buying my Sequoia. His response was "You're supposed to use your mirrors for that". He, of course was right. You get used to it quickly. When I had my piece of junk Chevy pick up, it was easy to look over my right shoulder to see, and was a easy habit to get into. I do believe that you become a better driver when you learn to rely only on your mirrors, but it was still unnerving at first.
As for parking, it is no more difficult than my piece of junk Chevy pick up was to park. It is a larger truck than your Cherokee.
One of my neighbors has a Seq and the other 2 neighbors have a Montero Limited.
The one with the Seq, his wife complained about the height of the SUV. It's too big and too high. As you said, it's difficult seeing the right side of the vehicle. In addition, since she wasn't familiar with the large size Seq, she had difficulties doing parallel parking.
The other 2 neighbors have a Montero Limited. The owner of the Seq drove one of the neighbors Montero Limited for a test drive. She really loved the Montero! She has no problem with the blind spot on the Montero. I believe the Montero sits lower than the Seq. She said it's more "woman friendly SUV".
Anyway, the owner of the Seq will be selling their Seq for the Montero Limited (he loves his wife). The quality on the Montero seems to be very good (read the Montero board). So far, their Montero Limited has over 20K miles on it. The other owner has 32K miles on it with no quality issues. Absolutely no probelm. Also, it's a bit more affordable than the Seq Limited.
Both Seq and Montero are excellent SUVs, perhaps your wife should test drive the Montero Limited? A Montero Limited can be had for low $30's (with discount).
Good luck!
PS If you or your wife is uncomfortable with the Seq because of the right blind spot, I recommend you stay away from the Seq. Better safe than sorry.
Thanks! You each brought up some good points! I appreciate yours and anyone else's suggestions on this matter...it's only going to help make our decision easier. By the way, to this point we have our decision narrowed down to this or the Honda Odyssey. We really like the roomniess (if this is such a word) of the interior in each of these and want the third row seat along with decent rear storage. It's hard to argue with the quality of either of these brands. We are a low-thirties (age) couple not willingly ready to make the plunge to the minivan quite yet - so it's either gonna be the flashy/sporty SUV or the nice/practical minivan. Prices aside, we are really having a hard time deciding. We often wonder how it would be getting the kids in and out of the Sequoia in parking spots and in our garage as compared to the sliding Odyssey doors. Hope to have a decision in a few weeks. Thanks again! p.s. I'll take a peak at the Montero too.
Maybe you want to look at a Acura MDX. It's built on the Odyssey platform but is more like a SUV than the Odyssey. We test drove one and liked it very much. However, the third row seat is very tight and simply wouldn't work for us. Maybe we'll trade my wifes Outback (an excellent vehicle in itself) for one. Good luck.
It amazes me that anyone would even consider a Montero given the CR test results. The test may be less than perfect but why put your family at risk? Get a Sequoia or an MDX and rest easy. The extra passenger and cargo space is an added bonus.
The minivan (Odyssey) is less expensive, gets better mileage, is more comfortable in the third seat (my opinion), and seems to be generally more practical for daily use.
Still, I find myself trying to rationalize a Seq. purchase. I like the looks and I would be great for the few times each year for SUV/four wheel drive capability (backpacking, winter skiing).
In the end however, it seems that the minivan simply makes the most "sense"
My wife and I share the same sentiments. We are teetering back and forth between the two. The hardest part for us is NOT being able to test drive the Odyssey because there aren't any around. This week we will have the opportunity to go look at an '02 when it comes in (it's someone else's order for delivery), but understandably will not be able to test drive it. Both vehicles fit our needs well, what it comes down to for us is do we want to swallow our pride and take the mini-van plunge!?!? Decisions, Decisions. :-) I echo you...HELP PS ryoon, if you get a chance, drop me an email at tntcal@aol.com, sounds like we are in the same boat and I have a few questions for ya.
I can relate to the struggle in your decision between the Odyssey & the Sequoia as they were exactly the two I was considering. I also have a Grand Cherokee that I can't wait to get rid of that my wife now uses. It goes as soon as the extended warranty expires. The Honda's pluses are of course, less money, better gas mileage,third row seat that folds into the floor, sliding doors etc. I chose the Sequoia. I couldn't go the minivan route even though I new it was a better choice all around for my needs. Also, I wanted leather and the Odyssey didn't come with it but you can have it installed aftermarket. The Odyssey is a great looking minivan in my opinion far as minivans go. In the end, I believe the Odyssey would have been a more practical choice. I felt also that I was not ready to be practical and I liked the Suv's looks and sportiness.
I had a Cherokee Sport then a Isuzu Trooper and when I got the Seq I noticed the right over the shoulder limited view. At first I would remove the headrest of the right passenger seat but eventually I left the headrest on and I got used to it. I still do however check two or three times before moving left. In the other vehicles I would look once quickly and go. At first the Seq did feel large but I quickly adapted to parking and maneuvering it in tight spaces. The turning radius is bigger than my last two vehicles but it has not bothered me too much. I am sure either choice is great. Good Luck.
For cars, many people go for what they 'like' over what they 'need', 'cos they are going to have to live with their decision for many years, and knowing that they 'like' their ride may just be the difference.
For the choices you both face, there are plenty of plusses and minusses to owing both of these vehicles, ultimately, it may come down to an intangible and/or somewhat subjective measure.
good luck with your decision, and don't forget, both vehicles are depreciating investments and an overall cost-to-value measure (besides looks, likes and needs) has to be factored in...
It is amazing to me that other people are having the same dilemma my wife and I had. We both struggled with the decision between the sequoia and the sienna or odyssey. In the end we went with the sequoia. The reasons are not sound nor logical. I liked the fact that the sequoia was large, based on the tundra and had all the safety equip. She liked the fact that it rode high and could see ahead of her on the freeway. We have had the sequoia two months and have put 2500 miles on it. We still like the sequoia very much. The only things we can complain about are: 1. Visibility to the right and rear is very poor but you do get used to it. 2.There is a slight feeling of the vehicle moving forward when you have the brake pushed down at a stop light and the air conditioners kick in. 3. Parking was extremely difficult the first two weeks (we both drove a camry and nissan pick up truck)but you do get used to it relatively quickly. 4. We have the SR5 in thunder grey and absolutely hate the fact that the running boards and wheel well guards do not match the rest of the truck. 5. There is a little more road noise than the camry but much better that the nissan truck. I realize these things seem petty and would probably be encountered in other vehicles but they are the only things we can think of to complain about. Overall we are more than satisfied with the sequoia and would encourage anyone thinking of getting it to do so.
The feedback is much appreciated. I'm sure that we couldn't go wrong with either choice. We know that the Odyssey would be the sure thing (but also comes with the mini-van stigma - argh!). As for the Sequoia, the few questions that remain are: garage space (because of the opening doors); tight manuvering and the blind spot; and lifting our two children (in car seats) in and out of the Sequoia especially in parking spots. (Anyone Sequoia owners with children please comment.) This week we plan on snagging a Sequoia from a local dealer for a few hours and then bringing it home and put it in the garage to see exactly how much room is left for opening and shutting the doors. We have a standard size double stall garage. Thanks again!
I live in a townhome with an attached two car garage and the sequoia fits just fine. The are a few inches above the roof rack to spare; however, if I put the suv in with the radio anttena up it does hit the hanging steel cable that goes across the bottom of the garage door. You wont be able to open the rear door but the fact that the window rolls down keeps it from being a big deal to us.The parking of the beast is an adventure, especially trying to put it in a compact space, I only get to drive it on weekends because my wife has it during the week but after a couple of weeks I felt very confident parking it and backing it up into tight spaces ( I even have a bike rack on the back of it) and can parallel park without problems. One of those convex? round mirrors stuck to the regular mirror helps see how far you are from the curb. We have an 11 month old and actually find it easier to put the baby in the sequoia than the camry. (both my wife and I are short.. She is a little under five feet and I am five and a half) We find it is easier on the back not to have to stoop over with a 26 pound baby every time we have to go somewhere. The grandparents are in their seventies and get in an out of the suv with no problems. Hope this helps.
Simple solution. I took out the headrest on the right passenger 2nd row seat. Blind spot eliminated....at least for my needs ! Otherwise...this vehicle is the best one I've ever owned...or driven......2001 White Limited 4x4...............a thing of beauty.
Some of you are talking smack about Montero Limited because of the CR rollover test. Although I don't agree with the way CR test was conducted, their results are up to the consumers to decide. There has not been a recall by the NHTSA as of today.
In an emergency lane change, ANY SUVs can easily be rollover, depending on road condition, weather, drivers' experience, and etc. Don't ever think Seq is an exception.
In my opinion, the chances of you broad siding a vehicle because of the blind spot in a Sequoia is 1000X greater than if you were to rollover in a MOntero.
I chose neither. I've put hundreds of thousands of miles on panel vans. I can see more and better out of my side mirrors than any car I have ever driven. Convex mirrors tell you exactly what is to the side and I can park next to the curb with perfection. I think the roll over with the Montero would most likely happen with an extreme avoidance maneuver and recently saw a Suburban on it's side on the freeway because of such a move. They are top heavy, we all have to be a little more careful, be a little more patient and give ourselves a little more reaction time.
I'm surprising myself with this internal struggle between two different vehicles. My wife and I own a 95 MB E320 wagon and a 93 subaru wgn. Now with three kids we need a vehicle with three row seating. Some thoughts...
1. What's a vehicle for??? Transporting people and sometimes a few "things". 2. How many times do I really need 4 wheel dirve? 3. I really have no problem with "the minivan image". I think they make alot of sense and that's part of their attractiveness.
So why should I spend so much more in purchase price and fuel for a Seq?
1. Four wheel drive capability would be nice for those ski trips and backpacking trips. 2. There is more cargo room behind the third seat. 3. The Seq. can hold eight. 4. The Seq. is an attracive looking vehicle.
I think the only solution is to buy both!!! (ha ha ha)
Comments
I am looking for suggestions for good winter tires for my 4wd sr5. I need to be able to handle: deep snow, packed snow/ice, deep mud.
Plus regular winter highway driving in hilly terrain.
Thanks in advance for any suggestions!
"The LX 470 will move off the Toyota Land Cruiser platform to the larger Sequoia platform for the 2005 model year. That means a much larger cabin as well as more towing capacity"
http://www.autonews.com/html/main/stories0827/fpasia827.htm
I assume they all have websites to get more info. I just checked tirerack.com and they have some current test info info on 3 of the tires. Nokian website is nokiantires.com
I'll post again after I get some better info. Let me know what you discover or decide on. chuck@mountaintees.com
I would really like to see a satisfaction or performance survey on the 3 YEAR OLD vehicles, which is the minimum length of manufacturer's bumper-to-bumper warranty these days. It is when the warranty expires that the quality issue begins to hurt the pocketbooks. While this may not be very useful for a particular model since they will change the model in another year, this will give an general benchmark of quality for the manufacturer.
Alternatively, they can make a survey in 2 years, which is the average "half-time" of a particular model.
Least of all, they can make a survey after one year, which is a longer time (than 90 days) for the owner to really get some sense of the quality of their vehicle.
Anything said about the first 90 days does not really speak very much about real quality.
I would have bought the MDX, except that I did not really like it's minivan look. I still liked the mascular stance of the Sequoia. Looks are subjective (personal), and you might like it.
The MDX is a fine vehicle but a family with 5 kids and 2 adults would be way overcrowded in an MDX and have no room for anything other than passengers.
BTW, I am within a few hundred miles of hitting 20,000 miles on my Sequoia. No problems and no complaints so far. It runs like a dream. I'd buy another in a heartbeat.
I'm kind of surprised that Heatwave3 has not come back with his source on the lame 90 day JDP survey (not!). Having just traded in a ridiculous American branded vehicle (4 transmissions on a 1996 vehicle), I promise not to be too impressed with such a survey. It took a whole year and a half for my first transmission to go and another nine months for the second one to fail. The second tranny lasted two whole years and I was able to trade it in just prior to having to install a 4th tranny. I'm not even going to get into the horrendous electrical system, which is now laughable since I no longer own the vehicle, but was far from laughable for the last 5 years. However, as I recall I still liked the thing 90 days after my purchase.
Steve
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<http://www.jdpa.com/studies/pressrelease.asp?StudyID=517&CatID=1>
The info on the Sequoia being below the top three was posted at another site within Edmunds (I believe it was the comparo site forum between the Sequoia, Denali, Navigator and Escalade).
Your welcome to do your own research by contacting JDPowers directly if the information matters to you.
wrt the answer from mike greywith being posted at another "comparison forum", the link is posted below, and it clearly shows that no response from jd powers have been received on the poster's request.
drew_ "Toyota Sequoia vs Cadillac Escalade vs Lincoln Navigator vs GMC Yukon Denali vs Chevy Tahoe" Aug 23, 2001 10:22pm
(see post #303 by rickc5 on this point)
in closing, let us just agree to disagree that the Sequoia was and wasn't part of the JD Power survey. The real and ultimate test of quality will be left to the grains of time.... Years from now owners will find out which of these behemoths can withstand the test and torture and survive the abuse to justify the expenditure....
i am keeping my fingers crossed, but happy to say no problems with mine for 12K miles now...
JDP rating is like a quality rating for your honeymoon that you have with your new car. The real measure should be about the period after the honeymoon is over. JDP survey is WORTHLESS in term of assessing the long term quality of a vehicle.
The question is that are most marriages in the long term as good as the honeymoons? With over 50% divorce rate, I think the answer is pretty obvious. As for human relationships with cars, I think the number is even worse.
In conclusion, JDP rating is a real joke. I think believing in it is like believing that 3-minutes abs machine workout each day would bring a 6-pack ab in 30 days.
Uh-huh.
I've owned and driven Chevy's since I was 16. This is my first "Foreign" vehicle (although it's built in the U.S. and the Tahoe is built in either Mexico or the U.S.). After my 1996 Blazer spent more time going up and down than forward, I decided to look elsewhere.
I really like the Seq over the Exp. and Tahoe. Each has its advantages, and probably problems. However, based on my criteria, the Seq. is the best bet for me. I don't trailer anything larger than a small pop up, but I do need the interior space (I haul a 4'x4'x3' N scale train modules in the truck for the train club I belong to).
This truck is easy to drive, does NOT feel large, has enough power for me, and looks great. However, the 13 to 14 (Calc) MPG I get could be better, but I knew that going in.
The Seq. is not perfect, nothing is, but compared to the rest, it's the best one going.(note: personal opinion here).
NL
Be careful about what you say about GM, Mopar and FOMOCO products. You don't want to upset the NASCAR set. They really hate it when you laugh or cry out loud about past experiences with those products. Enjoy your Sequoia but don't admit that you like it on this board.
We only saw one other Sequoia during the entire holiday weekend, and we got an inquiry and complement about the Sequoia.
Expressing your opinions about the quality and capabilities of the vehicle you own is very helpful to others shopping for similar vehicles. On the other hand if you express opinions about the vehicle you own or that someone else owns and position it as fact, don't be surprised if someone asks for your source or shares a source which contradicts your so called "facts".
Truth should never hurt if you are awake at the wheel.
Sorry if my last post was too harsh. Had another bad day in a series of bad days. No excuse, just an explanation.
Paul
I took it to the dealer on September 4th and they diagnosed that the ECU circuit board was bad. Of course, they have no parts on hand so they had to order it. I just got it back (they gave me a free oil change
Per post 3591 check your lemon law... In my state if the dealer has it a certain number of days it falls within the lemon law guidelines. When the A/C compressor was bad I had to wait 3 1/2 weeks for a new compressor.... I should have left it at the dealer because with it in the shop all the time I would of had new truck!!!
They had a heck of a time getting the freon to take in the back A/C unit (yes, it was in the shop for this also!)
Thank goodness winter is coming up and I will not have to deal with the A/C.
I love the truck except for the headrest in the rear seats make it very hard to get good visibility. I basically keep the third row seats flat all the time. Another plus!!! the seats are easy to take out and reinstall.
(Sorry Moderator I know this is off topic...)
On the return, we left Cimmaron, NM (east of Red River) at 11:00 A.M, stopping to look at bison along the way and Estella's in Las Vegas for lunch. We made it back to Austin at 2 A.M. CST, so I guess the answer is about 14 hours.
With the disappearing third seat of the MDX, there will be plenty of room for the twin stroller or two separate strollers. Of course, I would also highly recommend the SEQ and the rear seats can also be removed or folded for more space. I personally know of people who own a Tahoes and Yukons and they are happy with them too. So mreid should try as many of these SUVs as possible to get a more educated decision.
A major issue that people with kids at "carseat ages" have to consider carefully is the riding confort of the third seat for adults. Take this scenario, for example. A family with at least two kids in carseats go on trips to visit the grandparents. Going there, it's no problem. There's room for everyone. When they get there, the grandparents go around town with them. Since it is much more difficult to put the car seats on the third row seats, the only option is to put the grandparents there. Some of the "full-size SUVs" DO NOT have enough space for adults in the third row. It's somewhat bumpy there too, at least for my SEQ.
Ironically, when the kids are already big enough for seatbealts, the seating arrangment becomes very different and a smaller third row may be okay. The kids will be on the third row seats, which is confortable enough for them until they get to be teenagers.
There was a recent comment about the height of the seq making toddler access difficult... with running boards, my 3 year old has no problem climbing in and out... except that it has become a bit of a game. My 72 year old parents also made it in and out without too much problem (the many grab holds help)... easier than my old 2 door 4 rnnr.
Also, anyone who has children in carseats, any pros and cons for having to lift the up kids in the Sequoia since it's higher compared to other vehicles/minivans. Thanks in advance!
You are correct, it is difficult to see when looking over your right shoulder. I voiced this concern to a truck driver friend after buying my Sequoia. His response was "You're supposed to use your mirrors for that". He, of course was right. You get used to it quickly. When I had my piece of junk Chevy pick up, it was easy to look over my right shoulder to see, and was a easy habit to get into. I do believe that you become a better driver when you learn to rely only on your mirrors, but it was still unnerving at first.
As for parking, it is no more difficult than my piece of junk Chevy pick up was to park. It is a larger truck than your Cherokee.
Hope this helps.
Paul
The one with the Seq, his wife complained about the height of the SUV. It's too big and too high. As you said, it's difficult seeing the right side of the vehicle. In addition, since she wasn't familiar with the large size Seq, she had difficulties doing parallel parking.
The other 2 neighbors have a Montero Limited. The owner of the Seq drove one of the neighbors Montero Limited for a test drive. She really loved the Montero! She has no problem with the blind spot on the Montero. I believe the Montero sits lower than the Seq. She said it's more "woman friendly SUV".
Anyway, the owner of the Seq will be selling their Seq for the Montero Limited (he loves his wife). The quality on the Montero seems to be very good (read the Montero board). So far, their Montero Limited has over 20K miles on it. The other owner has 32K miles on it with no quality issues. Absolutely no probelm. Also, it's a bit more affordable than the Seq Limited.
Both Seq and Montero are excellent SUVs, perhaps your wife should test drive the Montero Limited? A Montero Limited can be had for low $30's (with discount).
Good luck!
PS
If you or your wife is uncomfortable with the Seq because of the right blind spot, I recommend you stay away from the Seq. Better safe than sorry.
By the way, to this point we have our decision narrowed down to this or the Honda Odyssey. We really like the roomniess (if this is such a word) of the interior in each of these and want the third row seat along with decent rear storage. It's hard to argue with the quality of either of these brands.
We are a low-thirties (age) couple not willingly ready to make the plunge to the minivan quite yet - so it's either gonna be the flashy/sporty SUV or the nice/practical minivan. Prices aside, we are really having a hard time deciding. We often wonder how it would be getting the kids in and out of the Sequoia in parking spots and in our garage as compared to the sliding Odyssey doors. Hope to have a decision in a few weeks. Thanks again!
p.s. I'll take a peak at the Montero too.
Maybe you want to look at a Acura MDX. It's built on the Odyssey platform but is more like a SUV than the Odyssey. We test drove one and liked it very much. However, the third row seat is very tight and simply wouldn't work for us. Maybe we'll trade my wifes Outback (an excellent vehicle in itself) for one. Good luck.
Paul
The minivan (Odyssey) is less expensive, gets better mileage, is more comfortable in the third seat (my opinion), and seems to be generally more practical for daily use.
Still, I find myself trying to rationalize a Seq. purchase. I like the looks and I would be great for the few times each year for SUV/four wheel drive capability (backpacking, winter skiing).
In the end however, it seems that the minivan simply makes the most "sense"
Help!
Both vehicles fit our needs well, what it comes down to for us is do we want to swallow our pride and take the mini-van plunge!?!? Decisions, Decisions. :-) I echo you...HELP
PS ryoon, if you get a chance, drop me an email at tntcal@aol.com, sounds like we are in the same boat and I have a few questions for ya.
For cars, many people go for what they 'like' over what they 'need', 'cos they are going to have to live with their decision for many years, and knowing that they 'like' their ride may just be the difference.
For the choices you both face, there are plenty of plusses and minusses to owing both of these vehicles, ultimately, it may come down to an intangible and/or somewhat subjective measure.
good luck with your decision, and don't forget, both vehicles are depreciating investments and an overall cost-to-value measure (besides looks, likes and needs) has to be factored in...
Hope this helps you both.
1. Visibility to the right and rear is very poor but you do get used to it. 2.There is a slight feeling of the vehicle moving forward when you have the brake pushed down at a stop light and the air conditioners kick in. 3. Parking was extremely difficult the first two weeks (we both drove a camry and nissan pick up truck)but you do get used to it relatively quickly. 4. We have the SR5 in thunder grey and absolutely hate the fact that the running boards and wheel well guards do not match the rest of the truck. 5. There is a little more road noise than the camry but much better that the nissan truck. I realize these things seem petty and would probably be encountered in other vehicles but they are the only things we can think of to complain about. Overall we are more than satisfied with the sequoia and would encourage anyone thinking of getting it to do so.
This week we plan on snagging a Sequoia from a local dealer for a few hours and then bringing it home and put it in the garage to see exactly how much room is left for opening and shutting the doors. We have a standard size double stall garage.
Thanks again!
In an emergency lane change, ANY SUVs can easily be rollover, depending on road condition, weather, drivers' experience, and etc. Don't ever think Seq is an exception.
In my opinion, the chances of you broad siding a vehicle because of the blind spot in a Sequoia is 1000X greater than if you were to rollover in a MOntero.
You choose which accident you prefer....
1. What's a vehicle for??? Transporting people and sometimes a few "things".
2. How many times do I really need 4 wheel dirve?
3. I really have no problem with "the minivan image". I think they make alot of sense and that's part of their attractiveness.
So why should I spend so much more in purchase price and fuel for a Seq?
1. Four wheel drive capability would be nice for those ski trips and backpacking trips.
2. There is more cargo room behind the third seat.
3. The Seq. can hold eight.
4. The Seq. is an attracive looking vehicle.
I think the only solution is to buy both!!! (ha ha ha)