joker35: I also have a DXL. Its an '01 which came with the exact same motor as the '02, namely the 320hp, 6.0L. The 2001 and the '02 have the exact same features.
BTW, hold on to your hat. As a DXL owner posting on this forum, you are about to be lambasted by Toyota fans for even remotely suggesting that there is any vehicle on the planet that could be superior to a Sequoia.
Having compared the Sequoia, Excursion LTD, Navigator and Denali XL there really is no comparison from a comfort, power, luxury, value or towing capacity comparison. The only other vehicle to consider IMO was the Escalade which didn't come in an XL version. Consider me in full agreement with your assessment above.
IMO, there are three specs to consider wrt third row seating in f/s SUV's:
1. ease of access and comfortability 2. available head, shoulder and leg room 3. available storage space with/without 3rd row seats.
On #1: ease of access:
On the Seq, getting to the third row seats is quite simple and fool proof. The second row has a 60:40 split, and a simple mechanism permits both sides to tumble forward for ease of access to third row. One end (40%) is even neat with its simplicity....No idea how this works with the Yukon line.
In addition, you can roll, tumble and slide the third row seats forward. You can also recline them backwards... Can you do all of these in the Yukon ? I don't know but I hope someone with a Yukon (3lakes...) can help out here.
Comfortability is a little difficult to measure. I have had my mum and two kids seat back there on a 10-hr San Diego-Las Vegas-San Diego trip, with no problem or discomfort whatsoever. Maybe my mum at only 5"4' and my 8- and 9-yr olds are small enough to have no problem back there. I have sat there once, and so has my wife, and we have no discomfort issue at all. You will have to judge this for yourself by trying it out...
On #2: roominess
For third row seating, the Seq lists 36.8"/60.9"/50.3"/29.8" for head/shoulder/hip/legrooms, respectively, While none is provided for the Yukon XL SLT. If you go by the second row numbers, the Yukon XL and the Seq averages out about same (marginal differences here and there...)
On #3: space
seats can be completely removed to provide additional storage space. although Toyota claims ca. 128 cu ft of storage space, this is with BOTH second and third row seats completely removed. But you get very decent space with only the third row seats removed. Here, the Yukon Denali XL (Chevy Suburban) thump the Seq in the amount of space behind the third row seats, no context there (but remember, the Seq does not actually complete directly with the Yukon Denali...)
I'm a repoter working on a story about the shift in sales from domestic automakers to Asian-based. I'm looking for someone who just bought their first Toyota after owning GM, Ford or Chrysler vehicles in the past. Thanks. You can reach me at userf@cris.com.
Congratulations on your GM purchase. I'm glad they financed it for free. That's all they'll do for free. You can use your finance savings to extend the warranty. You'll be using your warranty about three times a year if you have the same experience that my wife and I had. Astro, K1500, Blazer. All crap.
3lakes,
I guess you'll get to see the difference in reliability first hand. Just don't come back and stretch the truth like some people from who post to this board. Keep in mind that most of us have owned GM products in the past. We've been there. Good luck.
baseballmom94: oac3 provides a good way to look at your question of space and basing your assessment on:
"1. ease of access and comfortability 2. available head, shoulder and leg room 3. available storage space with/without 3rd row seats."
1) ease: My info is for a Yukon XL which is the same as the Denali XL I own and am most familiar with. The second row is split 65/35. The "35" seat slides forward with a one hand lever for access to the third row. Both the 65 and 35 second row seats also fold forward by lifting the seat bottoms against the back of the front seats and folding the second row seat backs flat by folding them down. No levers are needed for these maneuvers. With the third row out of the vehicle you would have a flat space that can accomodate a 4'x8' sheet of plywood. There is also an option for removable Captain Chairs in the second row with a center aisle for access to the third row instead of a 65/35 bench.
The third row folds flat and can be rotated up against the back of the second row seats for additional storage space without having to remove the third row, although it is also easily removed, if needed. The third row provides belted seating for three with the obligatory comfort features such as lighting and cup holders. There is also a footwell in the third row that is not available in the Yukon which is an important consideration. The third row seats do not tilt.
Our family has taken 5 hr road trips with three teenagers comfortably in the rear seat.
2) Roominess: For the 1st and second rows the Yukon XL and Sequoia have similar Head and Legroom dimensions however there is about a 3" advantage in Shoulder space and a 2" advantage in hip space for the GM products over the Sequoia.
The third row dimensions for the Yukon XL are: 37.4, 27.3, 64.4 and 49.2 (Head, Leg, Shoulder, Hip). There is a slight advantage in head to the Yukon XL, a 2.5" advantage in Leg to the Sequoia, a 3.5" advantage to the Yukon XL on Shoulder and a slight advantage to the Sequoia in Hip.
3) Space would go in favor to the Yukon XL with 131.6 cu ft to the front seats, 90 cu ft to the back of the second seats and 45.7 cu ft to the rear of the third seat. With the third seat in you would have nearly twice the cubic ft of a Sequoia.
I hope this helps.
FYI, on this issue of quality. I have now owned my Denali XL for 13,000 miles and coming up on 1 year. In that time, I have changed the oil 4 times and had the steering wheel aligned at about 1200 miles (it was off-center by about 1 inch which was simply a visual annoyance, the wheels were aligned however not with the steering wheel). The alignment was covered under warranty. Nothing, absolutely nothing else, has been required for the vehicle other than gas and detailing. I could not have asked for a higher quality vehicle combined with the many luxury and perfomance benefits that have come with the Denali XL. The dealer threw in the first 5 oil changes at no charge and that was on a deal that was a GM Supplier Program purchase which was at $200 UNDER FACTORY INVOICE. I paid $42.5K out the door and after one year of ownership would have felt I got my money's worth even if I had spent $50+K. I would never have said that about any other vehicle I've owned including my Avalon and 740il.
i found that people are so keen on answering sequoia vs GM question on the sequoia forum, (is your full time job copy and paste stuff from bronchus?) don't you guys know there are so many highlander vs forum out there, may be you can set up a sequoia vs GM and leave us in peace. i know sequoia is a bad choice in every aspect, i realy know it, so now can we sequoia owner move on?
can somebody answer me that what is remote starter? and do they have that in sequoia option?
PS. sometimes i wonder why people feel a vehicle is so bad, but they still keep reading that vehicle's forum? i have never read anything or comment anything on the GM products forum, wait! do they have one?
This is a discussion forum in which people discuss different aspects of a particular vehicle. Sometimes this includes information on remote starters. Sometimes it includes comparing the Sequoia to another similar vehicle. I asked a question regarding what people liked or did not like in their Yukon as compared to a Sequoia. I am trying to make an educated decision about a $35,000 plus vehicle and am trying to gather as much info as possible. If anyone would like to move this to the Yukon/Tahoe forum or the Suburban/Yukon XL forum, that is fine with me. I wonder if they will be offended by the mention of the word "Sequoia".....
By the way, I apologize that I don't have info on remote starters other than the one I saw in the Target ad this Sunday for $55.
sorry for the late reply...I bought a 00 LX470...for me (esp since I buy and hold) the price diff to the Sequoia was just too close (e.g., about $100 per month on a 60 month lease)
Fun to check out this never-ending debate. I was in that mode last summer, torn between these vehicles. Loved 'em both, tho the DXL is truly not a good comparison size/engine-wise. The bottom line for me..........investing 40K plus into a vehicle.......watching that odometer adding on the miles......you know how fast it accumulates...........and you know what 100K means on GM or Ford truck..............we also know what 100K means on a Toyota vehicle (congratulations, you've just broken in your new car), and the value they hold even at that mileage...........that my friends was the bottom line, as attractive as that DXL was, I'm tooling around in the best vehicle I've ever owned......a 2001 white Limited 4X4....ahhhhhhhhh................
More leg room in the second row and with longer seat cushions, third row seats adjust forward and back -- choose leg room or luggage space. All seats recline -- this is big!! All seats are covered in leather (with the right option of course) the third seat in the GM's (except Denali) is vinyl! (it's in the brochure). Seats are exceptionally comfortable -- I found the front seats in all the GM products extremely uncomfortable, and I sat in every single one. Believe it or not, this was the largest factor in my decision. Every time I climb in and sit down, I smile. More room in the front; the low console with lots of cubby's is very convenient. The console in the GM's esp. the Denali is incredibly huge and intrusive. Ever want to climb through to the back? Warranty -- why doesn't the warranty ever come up? GM includes a standard 3yr/36k. Toyota has 3/36 plus a 5yr/60k drivetrain warranty . This is big! Those are expensive parts down there and Toyota is confident that they will live a long time. If you choose a GM product, esp. a Denali or Escalade (4yr/50k) be sure and get the extended warranty. For some unknown reason, GM decided to use their light duty (passenger car) differential and 4L60E transmission and with the high output version of the 6.0L engine in their most expensive SUV's. I can hear the screaming now -- "but it's a special, beefed up transmission" -- yes but it's still the light duty transmission. If you order GM's 3/4 ton chassis with the 6.0L you get the heavy duty 4L80E transmission. What does that tell you? They could have at least extended the warranty. Selectable Full time 4WD with low range and 2wd. Only the Denali and Escalade has full time 4wd but it's always in 4WD and has no low range. Low range is pretty handy at boat ramps and on mountain back roads and trails. All others are part time only.
Ok, what don't I like: My insurance increased 50% over my '99 Suburban. It's kind of plain looking.
Remote Starter lets you start your Sequoia remotely from up to 1000 ft. away. It's good for warming and/or cooling your Sequoia if you leave the heater/AC on. The bad news is it's NOT an option on the 2001 or 2002 Sequoia. I believe in some BMW's you can program to do this functions elegantly. That a NAV system and an entertainment system for the kids would make the Sequoia almost prefect for me. If you decide to buy a third party remote starter make sure you get a real pro to install it. They have to bypass the toyota factory alarm.
Thanks to everyone who is posting info on why they bought a Sequoia rather than a Yukon or Tahoe or vice-versa. The information is really very helpful.
2heeldrive: Please check your homework. The transmission in the Denali's is significantly different from both the Yukon 1/2 ton chassis and the 3/4 ton chassis. It is a special variation since neither the 3/4 ton or 1/2 ton Yukon or Suburbans over AWD, which is the unique factor in addition to the 320HP output of the 6.0L engine..
The 1/2 ton transmission is the 4L60. The 3/4 ton has the 4L80 HD (Heavy Duty). The Denali models have the 4L65 HD (Heavy Duty).
By comparison the Sequoia offers one transmission and no option for AWD which for my decision-making made the Sequoia a lesser choice.
doudoudid: I had a remote starter in my previous 3/4 ton Suburban. It is an especially nice feature to cool down the vehicle or heat up its interior before enterring the vehicle. I used the VIPER model which is avaliable at a lot of specialty radio shops. Its worth considering as I am sure they have a model that is compatible with the Sequoia. I think it may have run about $150 installed.
Anyone comparing a 1999 or earlier Suburban/Tahoe to a Sequoia is not comparing apples to apples. The all new in 2000 Sub/Tahoe is light years ahead of the old style.
I have read tons of things like "the Toyota seats are much more comfortable" - OPINION. I prefer the Yukon seats which are like huge recliners on 4 wheels. My opinion. There are tons of opinion things I could share - I hate the Toyota sound system, hate the climate controls, hate the 2WD system, hate the VSC system - all OPINION items. Yes, there are things I hate on the Yukon as well - hate the fit and finish of the exterior rear doors, hate that it doesn't come with bigger tires (that aren't Firestones - mine is not a Denali, though I did buy the Denali wheels and Michelins off eBay for it), I guess that's about it.
The reliability comparison is that the Sequoia (yes Sequoia) has been in for warranty work on 4 occasions and is returning for a 5th this Tuesday. The GMC, with 2 times as many miles - NEVER been in for anything other than oil changes.
My personal comparison (lots of opinion here folks):
Gas Mileage: Yukon 16 Sequoia 18 Exterior Styling: Toyota Interior Styling/Ergonomics: Yukon Driver Comfort: Yukon Stereo: Both are marginal at best - Yukon is slightly better (also of note is that the Sequoia has a power antenna - clip it off on your garage door or a tree branch and find out how much one costs) Climate Control: Yukon Rear Seats: Sequoia (they recline) Rear Seats When Down: Yukon (fold flat vs. Sequoia seats take up about 18" of cargo room) 3rd Row Seats: Sequoia (optional on Yukon and we didn't get them - our Seqoia seats have actually been out since we bought the vehicle. Also, as someone noted, the 3rd row seats in a GM are VINYL!) Wheels/Tires: Toyota Engine Power: Yukon Engine Noise: Sequoia (smooth and quiet) 4WD: Yukon (all push button) Towing: Yukon (here is where the Yukon really outshines the Sequoia - though my Yukon has Autoride) Size: Sequoia Second Row Room: Sequoia Storage Room Seats Down: Yukon (as I stated the Sequoia seats take up a ton of room when down) Storage Room Seats Up: Sequoia (It should have, it's longer) Price: Yukon Trade-In: We'll find out - this is one reason we bought the Toyota. It will be interesting to see what these bring on the used market in a few years. Ride Comfort: Tie
There you have it. I will say that we do not have kids and that the second row is really of no consideration as far as our likes or dislikes of either vehicle are concerned. In fact, the second row in my Yukon has been down almost since the day I bought it.
There are plenty of boat ramps that require low gear range. For those living in tidal water area. The highland resiviors of the mid-west may not be so difficult, but most of the private ramps on the Chesapeake watershed can get rough at low tide. Combine this with wet conditions and the low gear range becomes very important.
3lakeswi: as an owner of both a Tahoe and a Sequoia, I would be interested in what your comparison would have concluded if you were comparing the Denali or Denali XL versus the Sequoia since the actual price of a fully loaded Sequoia is somewhat more comparable to a Denali than a Yukon.
The basis for my price comparison is not a comparison of List Prices but the actual prices paid for the vehicles as there appears to be substantially greater discounting off list regarding the GM products and a more rigid position by Toyota dealers.
I disagree that YXL Denali and a Sequoia Limited will have the same price out the door. I paid around $38,000 for my Yukon SLT with Autoride. A YXL with Autoride will be around $39,500 (about $800 less with no Autoride). We paid around $34,500 for our Sequoia SR5. I think we could have gotten a Limited for about $39,500. The Sequoia is difficult to compare to either the Yukon or YXL because it is sized right between the two - like an Expedition (can we say that word in this forum?). Most common folk - who aren't eligible for a GM discount (supplier, family or otherwise) are not going to touch a Denali (regular or XL) for less than $43,000-$48,000.
If I had a Yukon XL SLT I would say I would be even more likely to suggest it over the Sequoia. Reason being, the YXL (or Suburban) offer a usable 3rd row and can haul 4x8 plywood, the Yukon offers neither and the Sequoia offers only a marginal 3rd row and no 4x8. A decked out YXL SLT can be out the door for about $40,000 - or about as much as a Limited Sequoia.
As far as bragging about resales go, I hope it rings true that the Toyota will outshine the GM. However, with the initial quality of our Sequoia I will not hold my breath. I would bet since they are making a cookie-cutter vehicle to rival the Expedition that the quality will fall and correspondingly the resale. These vehicles are NOT LandCruisers by any stretch of the imagination. The LandCruiser is tried and true - WORLDWIDE. The Sequoia is an Expedition with a Toyota badge and hence better (initially) reputation for quality and resale. As I said, only time will tell.
As far as suggesting one over the other. They are both outstanding vehicles for the intended purpose - hauling loads of people and/or cargo in adverse conditions when required. Formulate your own opinions and choose the vehicle that YOU like best. Both will break your bank and both will get you where you want to go all safe and sound.
I prefer the Yukon. Obviously that doesn't mean I think the Toyota is junk or I wouldn't have bought one. Just saying that long-term, after spending 30,000+ combined miles with the two vehicles, I think the Yukon is an overall better vehicle for ME.
3lakeswi: Thanks for the feedback on the comparo with a Denali (XL). My view may be out of sync, however I had the impression from this site that if you were thinking of buying a fully loaded Sequoia with every option, your out-the-door price would be around $42-43K after reading many posts on this site.
Since the Denali has only two options (second row Captain Chairs and moonroof) and the out-the door-price quoted by others for recent Denali purchases was about $42K for the Denali and about $44K for the XL, I felt it was a more reasonable comparison than a Yukon (or XL) based on price.
Obviously there are more features and power in the Denali(s) than a Sequoia, but the price didn't seem out of whack as a reason for a comparison of a top end Sequoia to what essentially is a top end Yukon.
I just purchased a 2002 Limited Sequoia with just about every option. It has not been built yet - It's being built tomorrow and delivered a few weeks later. One of the options that was included was keyless entry. This is a clicker that will allow me to get in/unlock the car without a key.
Keyless remote starter, as someone earlier mentioned, is a clicker that will allow me to start the car while I'm still in my house so that it's warmed up before I get in it.
I asked my dealer if they had a keyless remote starter option, and he said they could install one for $500 (parts & labor total). Sounds high to me, but at least I can feel relatively comfortable that they won't screw any of the electronics up, or if they do, it will be under warranty.
Really? The Denali doesn't have 4wd low? I had heard that the Escalade didn"t have it but I didn't know that the ALMIGHTY Denali was lacking in the 4wd department. I guess I should have spent more time looking at the GMC brochure and website. I wonder if anybody from this board has been to the Denali board to point that out to them. You know, just in case they might like the vehicle that they purchased. Maybe they need to be taken down a peg or two. We wouldn't want them to be TOO happy about their purchase.
So, basically, the Denali has a big engine and a sissy AWD system like my wifes' Subaru? Wow.
Why do you always insist in bringing your Yukon XL into the equation. It is a different vehicle. For one (as I have posted previously)it is $7000 Canadian more than a fully optioned Limited Sequoia. Secondly, it is different sized vehicle. It is bigger, and along with the benefits of that come the negatives. If it wasn't considered a different vehicle, why would GM produce both a Yukon and a Yukon XL. Let's compare apples to apples. The true comparison here is Yukon to Sequoia. Not a larger vehicle that is clearly positioned upscale.
Also while it's true there are few options on a Denali, the option list on a Yukon are huge (at least in Canada). The Sequoia has few options and when you start paying for sunroofs, wheel packages, larger engine, axle ratios, towing packages a loaded Yukon is very expensive and priced comparably to a Limited Sequoia.
Obviously you've never truly driven off road. 4wd low range is essential for serious off roading. While it can be argued that none of us will take our beloved vehicles seriously off roading, the same can be said for towing 8500 lbs.Most people would consider having the low range option an advantage.
You may want to read more about Toyota four wheel systems. I drive with mine in four wheel drive on dry roads all the time. Doesn't that qualify as a AWD option? Plus it has 4wd low. That should come in handy while pulling Denali AWD equiped SUVs out snow drifts.
Sequoia owners: What does the Sequoia manual state about the break in period? Does the vehicle need to be driven below a certain speed for a certain number of miles? I'd like to know because I'm about to pick up my brand new Sequoia SR5 4WD and have to drive it home which is about 5 hours away. Thanks.
I believe do not exceed 50mph until you have put in over 1000 miles. No towing until you have over 2000 miles. Also engage 4wd once a month to lubricate front end 4WD parts. All outlined in the owners manual. Congrats on your new ride.
Heatwave: How can you not know that the Sequoia is full time AWD (All Wheel Drive) after all the time you spend on this board?
And you have been drinking the GM Kool-Aid again. It doesn't matter what GM calls their light duty, passenger car transmission, be it Turbo350, 4L60E 4L60E HD or 4L65E it's still the same basic product with some beefed up parts. That transmission was never designed for the horsepower of the 6.0L or the weight of an SUV. It is however, a cash cow for the transmission repair industry. You can't made a silk purse out of a sow's ear. Your AWD argument is irrelevant, the AWD system is a separate unit from the transmission. So why doesn't GM use their best and strongest transmission, the 4L80E in their top of the line vehicles????????? And while we are on the drive train subject, why do they use the light duty, passenger car rear end on the same vehicles? Check out any GM discussion board for transmission and rear end issues, there are many. I still do not understand how GM can quote such high tow ratings with such a light duty drive train.
And what is the warranty on your Denanli??? 3/36? Can you still get the extended warranty? I sure like that 60K warranty on my Sequoia.
Joker35: The GM tow/haul switch determines when and how fast the transmission shifts gears. It's not another gear. If you need more power at low speeds and don't have low range gearing, you just push on the GAS and hope for the best.
3lakeswi: GM's push button 4WD. Don't push any of the FOUR buttons unless you read the manual first; the damage is not covered by the warranty. The Sequoia system is simplicity itself and requires no knowledge of 4WD systems at all. Just ONE button marked 4WD. What could be easier? It's fool proof and damage proof and will satisfy 90% of owners; the other 10% will figure out what the lever on the floor does. Ever wonder what a parking valet could do to a part time 4WD just by pushing a button?
And since you asked, My boat's little, but the ramps can be nasty, thanks Cliffy for explaining that. My reference to a pre 2000 vehicle was for insurance purposes only.
Doudoudid: Great idea, a separate forum for Seq. v. GM. How about it?
714cut: touché!
Great discussion it's good to see that this forum is back in the top 10!
boslaw - thanks for the answer, so if for the people who don't have a keyless entry option, could we use the remote starter to get in/unlock and lock the door? cos i seems to remember people saying they want to put keyless entry and remote starter into one remote fob, so i thought it may be possible.
2nd question: after you use the starter to warm up your car, do you still need to insult key when you drive away? if yes, the key needs to pass the ignition position again? i'm sorry if these questions sound a bit dumb, but i really don't understand how it works, cos i thought to myself if the answer is no, then there must be a button on the remote starter to turn off the engine, will it be dangerous putting it into the pocket or even inside the car when the car is moving?
also thanks heatwave3 and aix91 for the answers....
The bottom line here is that if you bought either a Toyota or GM or a Yugo and are happy with your vehicle then nothing else matters. If Joe Blow wouldn't touch a GM with a 10 foot stick then so be it. Your money, your choice. Too many posts here are in the "sorry grapes " category.
Doudoudid: I've insulted a few people in my time but never my key. Maybe your on to something. I'll try it next time to see it helps my gas milage.
I also had a long drive after picking up my Sequoia. The manual is sketchy on break in--do not exceed 50 (or was it 60?) but keep the rpm between 2000 and 3000. I personally did not feel like driving in 2nd for 420 miles. In speaking with mechanics, the engine break-in strategy is "old technology"--the tolerances of today's machining equipment virtually eliminate the seating of metal-against-metal components (I assume that rings are excluded from that categorization). Note that no 1000-mile oil change is required as in past times when you needed to get rid of the oil with fine particles of metal.
I chose to go by the rpm guidelines (after 1 hour for the first 20 miles in LA traffic). I varied my engine speed between 2000 and 3000 rpm and I alternated OD on and off to vary vehicle speed. I still did have to endure scoffs from my mechanic friends but it's my car and I plan to have it for 10+ years at ~18 to 20k miles per year.
If anyone says one negative word about the almighty Toyota they are chastised and sent to bed without dinner. Some people in this forum have been very helpful (TDX, 714cut and others) while some are just plain brainwashed into thinking that the Toyota is the perfect SUV and anyone who says different is wrong. They know everything about every SUV ever made and then explain how the Toyota is just plain better because they said so. They even seem to know the make-up of every boat landing in the US and Canada - which might be a great opportunity guys - you could draw maps and rate the landings based on the neccessity of 2WD, 4WD or 4WD Low.
I have read enough one-sided Toyota news for one week and will refrain from future postings to this forum - though I will continue to read. My effort is futile (or should I say feudal?). I gave a lengthy, unbiased, comparison between the GMC (oops I said it) and Toyota a few posts ago. It was what I gathered from OWNING BOTH of the vehicles for an extended period of time. If anyone else out there owns both a Sequoia and a Yukon/Tahoe (there it is again) I welcome your thoughts, without bias or prejudice, as well.
I have to go wash and wax my Toyota - did you know the Toyota is shinier than every other SUV on the market? It's true - just ask Cliffy or 2heeldrive.
As a lurker, I have no vested interest in defending or bashing the Sequoia. I for one think your posts have been unbiased and insightful. I think some people here do tend to have blinders on when it comes to the Sequoia (based on Sequoia ownership by a friend of mine), but I would not characterize cliffy as one of them. I would encourage you to keep posting. Please just don't bring up towing
There are facts and then there are opinions and this is a real doosey of an opinion:
3lakeswi wrote:
"I would bet since they are making a cookie-cutter vehicle to rival the Expedition that the quality will fall and correspondingly the resale. These vehicles are NOT LandCruisers by any stretch of the imagination. The LandCruiser is tried and true - WORLDWIDE. The Sequoia is an Expedition with a Toyota badge and hence better (initially) reputation for quality and resale. As I said, only time will tell."
Describing the Sequoia as a cookie cutter Ford Expedition with a Toyota badge? Come on now that's really a stretch! And then after saying that you whine about being chastised for negative posts?
And perhaps you didn't know that the Sequoia and Land Cruiser share the same "tried and true" drivetrain. (Fact).
If you are really that unhappy with the Sequoia, see what the resale value is and buy another Yukon. Maybe Heatwave will let you use his GM supplier discount.
To change direction for a moment, has anyone installed an aftermarket video or DVD system? With two kids I am considering it but wanted to get some feedback if possible.
Let me get this straight. You came to this board looking for help to a "problem" that turned out to be a normal operation of your Sequoia. When several people tried to help you with your "problem", you just got angrier. So you decided to tell us that you had a GM product that you felt was better that the Sequoia. We laughed at you. So now you're going to take your toys and go home? Grow up. I don't care what you own but I do expect you to be rational and civil when you ask for help. Cliffy tried to help you and you end up attacking him in your last (I hope) post. I'm beginning to believe you don't even own a Sequoia. It won't be the first time a GM lover streched the truth here. Good luck with beloved Yuckon or whatever.
> I've insulted a few people in my time but never my key. Maybe your on to something. I'll try it next time to see it helps my gas millage.
thanks for making fun of my English, as a foreigner i have tried very hard to communicate to you American. may be i shouldn't. next time you should try using my language, IF YOU CAN and stick to your own engineering instead of buying our country's products.
doudoudid: ordinarily, your last post deserves no response for the shear silliness, but, what was that all about, anyway ? so what if you are not American... who cares ? and what was it your country produced which Americans should stop buying again ?
And BTW, many people here have tried to help you with your unending questions about a remote starter for the Sequoia. Aren't you satisfied yet ? Do you even own this vehicle yet ? Just in case you forgot or missed the answers, you could buy one for $55 from Staples, or have your dealer install one for $500. Satisfied ????
I hope no one bothers to answer any of your other silly questions and hope that you just go away to some other forum and badger them all over again about something even sillier than a remote starter !
Go away for a day and everyone gets all riled up. Now, now....everybody take a deep breath and repeat after me..."its just an suv".
pschreck and 2heeldrive: The Denali and the Escalade do not offer a low 4wd. I suppose it would be nice to have and in fact I have had 4wd low in the 4 previous 4wd vehicles I have owned (Nissan, Jeep and two Chevy Subs before this GMC Denali XL). For those of you on your first 4wd vehicle, your about to find out that you will rarely, if ever use 4wd low during the entire time you own it (other than the first day you bring it home and put it in low for the wifey and kids).
Over the past 20 years I have used it maybe 3-4 times. Even for off-roading, I found myself primarily using 4wd but not low gear. Maybe on the beach or doing some modest rock climbing, but those are very rare occasions for me and I suspect for most people. Would it be a nice insurance policy...yes, but in the end I think most people will almost never use it.
714cut: Sorry my friend, but it is just as reasonable to compare a Sequoia to a Yukon XL as it is to a Yukon. Here's my reasons:
For the record the Edmunds TMV $ on a Denali is $43,000 and the XL is about $44,500.
I think based on weight, turning radius and price plus the length being in between the Yukon and the XL, it is equally legitimate to compare the Sequoia to either the Yukon or XL.
thanks so much for your quick response, i hope i could get a quick response for my silly question too, i don't know who give you right to say that a question for remote starter is a silly question, can't i ask something that i feel it's important to me in my life, i thought it's personal. i have never disrespected people who have tried to help me and i always say thanks to them. i just feel that using a foreign language is hard enough to commincate, and why people need to pick on one little mistake then ignored my question. by the way what make you think that i don't even own the vehicle, this is the first time i aware that people will suspect on this, may be people around you keep lying all the time, but i don't grow up like that.
pschreck: No...just because you have auto4wd, it is not the same as AWD. Here's why. In the Denali AWD, 38% of the engine power goes to the front drivetrain ALL the time through a center limited slip differential, transferring even more power from the rear to the front if the rear tires lose traction. Likewise there is a rear limited slip diff. that transfer power from left to right depending on which rear tire has the better traction. The key difference is that there is power at all times to the front tires.
The auto4wd system in the Sequoia has power going to the front wheels until the rear tires lose traction, at which the center diff than briefly transfers power to the front wheels until the rear tires regain traction. This is not an instantaneous tranfer as there will always be some lag in the transfer of the power. In slippery conditions (or even non-slippery) it is always preferable to have AWD over auto4wd, however auto4wd is definitely better than a 4wd system where it must first be mannually engaged by the driver. However even here, it may be preferable under some conditions to have 4wd over auto4wd, if having constant power to the front wheels is desirable.
2heeldrive: would you care to share any data supporting your sophmoric view regarding GM's transmissions "That transmission was never designed for the horsepower of the 6.0L or the weight of an SUV." or is this just another Toyota fan losing a rocker arm.
There are no passenger cars running with any of GMC's truck transmissions and I am quite confident that the GMC transmission in the lightest duty truck is beefier than the Sequoia's transmission, given its paltry 245hp which is exceeded even by Chevy's mid-size TrailBlazer suv with its 270hp 6 cyl engine.
Regarding your statement "If you need more power at low speeds and don't have low range gearing, you just push on the GAS and hope for the best." I think Sequoia owners will be doing alot more hoping with their foot on the gas of that anemic 245hp when compared with the 320hp beast in the Denali.
Regarding your other statement "The Sequoia system is simplicity itself and requires no knowledge of 4WD systems at all. Just ONE button marked 4WD. What could be easier? It's fool proof and damage proof and will satisfy 90% of owners; the other 10% will figure out what the lever on the floor does."
I'll tell you what's easier...how about no buttons to push at all as in the GMC Denali. Just gobs of HP, tons of grunting torque, all hooked up to maximum traction all the time to all four corners. That's what I call simple and more fun than should be legal.
3lakeswi: don't get out now! It's just getting to be fun, like shooting fish in a barrel:)
I had my 1st remote starter way back in 1992. It was from avital and installed by a respected local alarm dealer. Had no problems with it and the range was phenomenal. You can get an alarm system with keyless entry and a remote starter using one keyfob/remote. In the system that I had you still need to insert the key in the ignition and turn it to the on position to be able to drive the car. I believe you can turn the car off remotely also. If you forgot there is an automatic timer that's turns off the car after a 20 minutes. The systems available now you can even program when you want the car/suv to start. Let us know about your experience if you ever decide to have it installed.
I don't know what auto4WD system you are trying to describe, but it's not the Sequoia 4WD system.
You are in denial that your top of the line GM vehicle does not have GM's best and strongest transmission, but it is a fact, not a "Sophomoric view". Get over it Dude, ask any transmission shop or your friendly GM service manager. You can't get that kind of information in a brochure or on a web site. How do I know? 27 years of experience.
What's the point of comparing GM and Toyota transmissions? The Sequoia uses Toyota's best and strongest transmission. The same transmission that is in the LandCruiser, Lexus LX, LS, GS, and SC (300hp).
The Denali AWD system may be simple but it's not much good off road. The viscous coupling will overheat and fail if used off road. See this link for more info: http://www.4x4abc.com/4WD101/awd.html
You seem surprised at the passion the Sequoia owners show for their vehicles. Don't forget this is a Toyota Sequoia topic not Sequoia vs. Yukon. While both of you contribute in your inimitable styles and have something to offer, sometimes your remarks are inflammatory; thus the passionate responses back.
It would be boring without you around here. I'm just gathering some more facts so we can revisit the towing debate. Will post shortly.
Despite your best efforts I am unconvinced that the Sequoia and the Yukon XL are comparable. They are clearly sold as different vehicles by the same manufacturer. I looked at XL but it was too big for me. It goes beyond their weight and turning radius. I think most people would consider the Yukon vs. Sequoia as the better choice.
Regarding AWD, as with everything there are pros and cons. You have pointed out some pros but AWD is generally regarded as inferior in many ways to 4WD such as no low range, lack of locking full time 4wd etc.
Also are you saying that a Sequoia Ltd. is only $1000 more than a Yukon XL or slightly more than that vs a Yukon? Wow, what a deal. Give me the Sequoia any day as a lot of the negative posts have been about Sequoia price.
I think your other numbers are off on Denali. As noted earlier a Denali XL in Canada is $7000 more than a Sequoia Limited.
Like most posters here I enjoy my Sequoia, but there are some things I would change to have the "perfect Sequoia": --I think the HVAC fan is too noisy --the rear window defogger seems inadequate at times --I agree the wheels look a little small for the wheel wells --I would prefer push button 4wd controls. I find the floor shift lever gets in the way and there is some noise transfer. --the stereo is not the best --and I'd be lying if I didn't say more power would be nice. Not because its underpowered, but because more is always nice and it would be great to have 300 hp to cool down heatwave comparisons --I also like bells and whistles and the Sequoia could use some more.
I read your post, and thought, "Damn, he's read my mind". My wife has had hers for 4 months, and my critique would be just about identical to yours.
-The HVAC is noisy - and it would be nice to be able to have different temps left side versus right side. -The rear defogger could work better. -Toyota should be embarassed for calling the JBL stereo "Premium" without a subwoofer, and the power antenna is an accident waiting to happen -More power is always good. I'm on a list at my dealer to purchase the TRD supercharger when it is released in the spring. ($3000-ish for +40% HP and Torque, no effect upon warranty!!! ) It should be a factory available option.
That's about it for now. I'll check in as soon as the snow starts falling to see if I have any other complaints.
Comments
BTW, hold on to your hat. As a DXL owner posting on this forum, you are about to be lambasted by Toyota fans for even remotely suggesting that there is any vehicle on the planet that could be superior to a Sequoia.
Having compared the Sequoia, Excursion LTD, Navigator and Denali XL there really is no comparison from a comfort, power, luxury, value or towing capacity comparison. The only other vehicle to consider IMO was the Escalade which didn't come in an XL version. Consider me in full agreement with your assessment above.
IMO, there are three specs to consider wrt third row seating in f/s SUV's:
1. ease of access and comfortability
2. available head, shoulder and leg room
3. available storage space with/without 3rd row seats.
On #1: ease of access:
On the Seq, getting to the third row seats is quite simple and fool proof. The second row has a 60:40 split, and a simple mechanism permits both sides to tumble forward for ease of access to third row. One end (40%) is even neat with its simplicity....No idea how this works with the Yukon line.
In addition, you can roll, tumble and slide the third row seats forward. You can also recline them backwards... Can you do all of these in the Yukon ? I don't know but I hope someone with a Yukon (3lakes...) can help out here.
Comfortability is a little difficult to measure. I have had my mum and two kids seat back there on a 10-hr San Diego-Las Vegas-San Diego trip, with no problem or discomfort whatsoever. Maybe my mum at only 5"4' and my 8- and 9-yr olds are small enough to have no problem back there. I have sat there once, and so has my wife, and we have no discomfort issue at all. You will have to judge this for yourself by trying it out...
On #2: roominess
For third row seating, the Seq lists 36.8"/60.9"/50.3"/29.8" for head/shoulder/hip/legrooms, respectively, While none is provided for the Yukon XL SLT. If you go by the second row numbers, the Yukon XL and the Seq averages out about same (marginal differences here and there...)
On #3: space
seats can be completely removed to provide additional storage space. although Toyota claims ca. 128 cu ft of storage space, this is with BOTH second and third row seats completely removed. But you get very decent space with only the third row seats removed. Here, the Yukon Denali XL (Chevy Suburban) thump the Seq in the amount of space behind the third row seats, no context there (but remember, the Seq does not actually complete directly with the Yukon Denali...)
Hope these helps
Congratulations on your GM purchase. I'm glad they financed it for free. That's all they'll do for free. You can use your finance savings to extend the warranty. You'll be using your warranty about three times a year if you have the same experience that my wife and I had. Astro, K1500, Blazer. All crap.
3lakes,
I guess you'll get to see the difference in reliability first hand. Just don't come back and stretch the truth like some people from who post to this board. Keep in mind that most of us have owned GM products in the past. We've been there. Good luck.
"1. ease of access and comfortability
2. available head, shoulder and leg room
3. available storage space with/without 3rd row seats."
1) ease: My info is for a Yukon XL which is the same as the Denali XL I own and am most familiar with. The second row is split 65/35. The "35" seat slides forward with a one hand lever for access to the third row. Both the 65 and 35 second row seats also fold forward by lifting the seat bottoms against the back of the front seats and folding the second row seat backs flat by folding them down. No levers are needed for these maneuvers. With the third row out of the vehicle you would have a flat space that can accomodate a 4'x8' sheet of plywood. There is also an option for removable Captain Chairs in the second row with a center aisle for access to the third row instead of a 65/35 bench.
The third row folds flat and can be rotated up against the back of the second row seats for additional storage space without having to remove the third row, although it is also easily removed, if needed. The third row provides belted seating for three with the obligatory comfort features such as lighting and cup holders. There is also a footwell in the third row that is not available in the Yukon which is an important consideration. The third row seats do not tilt.
Our family has taken 5 hr road trips with three teenagers comfortably in the rear seat.
2) Roominess: For the 1st and second rows the Yukon XL and Sequoia have similar Head and Legroom dimensions however there is about a 3" advantage in Shoulder space and a 2" advantage in hip space for the GM products over the Sequoia.
The third row dimensions for the Yukon XL are: 37.4, 27.3, 64.4 and 49.2 (Head, Leg, Shoulder, Hip). There is a slight advantage in head to the Yukon XL, a 2.5" advantage in Leg to the Sequoia, a 3.5" advantage to the Yukon XL on Shoulder and a slight advantage to the Sequoia in Hip.
3) Space would go in favor to the Yukon XL with 131.6 cu ft to the front seats, 90 cu ft to the back of the second seats and 45.7 cu ft to the rear of the third seat. With the third seat in you would have nearly twice the cubic ft of a Sequoia.
I hope this helps.
FYI, on this issue of quality. I have now owned my Denali XL for 13,000 miles and coming up on 1 year. In that time, I have changed the oil 4 times and had the steering wheel aligned at about 1200 miles (it was off-center by about 1 inch which was simply a visual annoyance, the wheels were aligned however not with the steering wheel). The alignment was covered under warranty. Nothing, absolutely nothing else, has been required for the vehicle other than gas and detailing. I could not have asked for a higher quality vehicle combined with the many luxury and perfomance benefits that have come with the Denali XL. The dealer threw in the first 5 oil changes at no charge and that was on a deal that was a GM Supplier Program purchase which was at $200 UNDER FACTORY INVOICE. I paid $42.5K out the door and after one year of ownership would have felt I got my money's worth even if I had spent $50+K. I would never have said that about any other vehicle I've owned including my Avalon and 740il.
can somebody answer me that what is remote starter? and do they have that in sequoia option?
PS. sometimes i wonder why people feel a vehicle is so bad, but they still keep reading that vehicle's forum? i have never read anything or comment anything on the GM products forum, wait! do they have one?
By the way, I apologize that I don't have info on remote starters other than the one I saw in the Target ad this Sunday for $55.
Why Sequoia instead of the full size GM machines?
More leg room in the second row and with longer seat cushions, third row seats adjust forward and back -- choose leg room or luggage space.
All seats recline -- this is big!!
All seats are covered in leather (with the right option of course) the third seat in the GM's (except Denali) is vinyl! (it's in the brochure).
Seats are exceptionally comfortable -- I found the front seats in all the GM products extremely uncomfortable, and I sat in every single one. Believe it or not, this was the largest factor in my decision. Every time I climb in and sit down, I smile.
More room in the front; the low console with lots of cubby's is very convenient. The console in the GM's esp. the Denali is incredibly huge and intrusive. Ever want to climb through to the back?
Warranty -- why doesn't the warranty ever come up?
GM includes a standard 3yr/36k. Toyota has 3/36 plus a 5yr/60k drivetrain warranty . This is big! Those are expensive parts down there and Toyota is confident that they will live a long time. If you choose a GM product, esp. a Denali or Escalade (4yr/50k) be sure and get the extended warranty. For some unknown reason, GM decided to use their light duty (passenger car) differential and 4L60E transmission and with the high output version of the 6.0L engine in their most expensive SUV's. I can hear the screaming now -- "but it's a special, beefed up transmission" -- yes but it's still the light duty transmission. If you order GM's 3/4 ton chassis with the 6.0L you get the heavy duty 4L80E transmission. What does that tell you? They could have at least extended the warranty.
Selectable Full time 4WD with low range and 2wd. Only the Denali and Escalade has full time 4wd but it's always in 4WD and has no low range. Low range is pretty handy at boat ramps and on mountain back roads and trails. All others are part time only.
Ok, what don't I like:
My insurance increased 50% over my '99 Suburban.
It's kind of plain looking.
The 1/2 ton transmission is the 4L60.
The 3/4 ton has the 4L80 HD (Heavy Duty).
The Denali models have the 4L65 HD (Heavy Duty).
By comparison the Sequoia offers one transmission and no option for AWD which for my decision-making made the Sequoia a lesser choice.
doudoudid: I had a remote starter in my previous 3/4 ton Suburban. It is an especially nice feature to cool down the vehicle or heat up its interior before enterring the vehicle. I used the VIPER model which is avaliable at a lot of specialty radio shops. Its worth considering as I am sure they have a model that is compatible with the Sequoia. I think it may have run about $150 installed.
I have read tons of things like "the Toyota seats are much more comfortable" - OPINION. I prefer the Yukon seats which are like huge recliners on 4 wheels. My opinion. There are tons of opinion things I could share - I hate the Toyota sound system, hate the climate controls, hate the 2WD system, hate the VSC system - all OPINION items. Yes, there are things I hate on the Yukon as well - hate the fit and finish of the exterior rear doors, hate that it doesn't come with bigger tires (that aren't Firestones - mine is not a Denali, though I did buy the Denali wheels and Michelins off eBay for it), I guess that's about it.
The reliability comparison is that the Sequoia (yes Sequoia) has been in for warranty work on 4 occasions and is returning for a 5th this Tuesday. The GMC, with 2 times as many miles - NEVER been in for anything other than oil changes.
My personal comparison (lots of opinion here folks):
Gas Mileage: Yukon 16 Sequoia 18
Exterior Styling: Toyota
Interior Styling/Ergonomics: Yukon
Driver Comfort: Yukon
Stereo: Both are marginal at best - Yukon is slightly better (also of note is that the Sequoia has a power antenna - clip it off on your garage door or a tree branch and find out how much one costs)
Climate Control: Yukon
Rear Seats: Sequoia (they recline)
Rear Seats When Down: Yukon (fold flat vs. Sequoia seats take up about 18" of cargo room)
3rd Row Seats: Sequoia (optional on Yukon and we didn't get them - our Seqoia seats have actually been out since we bought the vehicle. Also, as someone noted, the 3rd row seats in a GM are VINYL!)
Wheels/Tires: Toyota
Engine Power: Yukon
Engine Noise: Sequoia (smooth and quiet)
4WD: Yukon (all push button)
Towing: Yukon (here is where the Yukon really outshines the Sequoia - though my Yukon has Autoride)
Size: Sequoia
Second Row Room: Sequoia
Storage Room Seats Down: Yukon (as I stated the Sequoia seats take up a ton of room when down)
Storage Room Seats Up: Sequoia (It should have, it's longer)
Price: Yukon
Trade-In: We'll find out - this is one reason we bought the Toyota. It will be interesting to see what these bring on the used market in a few years.
Ride Comfort: Tie
There you have it. I will say that we do not have kids and that the second row is really of no consideration as far as our likes or dislikes of either vehicle are concerned. In fact, the second row in my Yukon has been down almost since the day I bought it.
4WD High
4WD Low
Auto 4WD
2WD
Also wondering what grade a boat ramp is on that requires 4WD Low to get out of? Or maybe the better question is how big is that boat?!?
The basis for my price comparison is not a comparison of List Prices but the actual prices paid for the vehicles as there appears to be substantially greater discounting off list regarding the GM products and a more rigid position by Toyota dealers.
If I had a Yukon XL SLT I would say I would be even more likely to suggest it over the Sequoia. Reason being, the YXL (or Suburban) offer a usable 3rd row and can haul 4x8 plywood, the Yukon offers neither and the Sequoia offers only a marginal 3rd row and no 4x8. A decked out YXL SLT can be out the door for about $40,000 - or about as much as a Limited Sequoia.
As far as bragging about resales go, I hope it rings true that the Toyota will outshine the GM. However, with the initial quality of our Sequoia I will not hold my breath. I would bet since they are making a cookie-cutter vehicle to rival the Expedition that the quality will fall and correspondingly the resale. These vehicles are NOT LandCruisers by any stretch of the imagination. The LandCruiser is tried and true - WORLDWIDE. The Sequoia is an Expedition with a Toyota badge and hence better (initially) reputation for quality and resale. As I said, only time will tell.
As far as suggesting one over the other. They are both outstanding vehicles for the intended purpose - hauling loads of people and/or cargo in adverse conditions when required. Formulate your own opinions and choose the vehicle that YOU like best. Both will break your bank and both will get you where you want to go all safe and sound.
I prefer the Yukon. Obviously that doesn't mean I think the Toyota is junk or I wouldn't have bought one. Just saying that long-term, after spending 30,000+ combined miles with the two vehicles, I think the Yukon is an overall better vehicle for ME.
Since the Denali has only two options (second row Captain Chairs and moonroof) and the out-the door-price quoted by others for recent Denali purchases was about $42K for the Denali and about $44K for the XL, I felt it was a more reasonable comparison than a Yukon (or XL) based on price.
Obviously there are more features and power in the Denali(s) than a Sequoia, but the price didn't seem out of whack as a reason for a comparison of a top end Sequoia to what essentially is a top end Yukon.
I just purchased a 2002 Limited Sequoia with just about every option. It has not been built yet - It's being built tomorrow and delivered a few weeks later. One of the options that was included was keyless entry. This is a clicker that will allow me to get in/unlock the car without a key.
Keyless remote starter, as someone earlier mentioned, is a clicker that will allow me to start the car while I'm still in my house so that it's warmed up before I get in it.
I asked my dealer if they had a keyless remote starter option, and he said they could install one for $500 (parts & labor total). Sounds high to me, but at least I can feel relatively comfortable that they won't screw any of the electronics up, or if they do, it will be under warranty.
Really? The Denali doesn't have 4wd low? I had heard that the Escalade didn"t have it but I didn't know that the ALMIGHTY Denali was lacking in the 4wd department. I guess I should have spent more time looking at the GMC brochure and website. I wonder if anybody from this board has been to the Denali board to point that out to them. You know, just in case they might like the vehicle that they purchased. Maybe they need to be taken down a peg or two. We wouldn't want them to be TOO happy about their purchase.
So, basically, the Denali has a big engine and a sissy AWD system like my wifes' Subaru? Wow.
Also has a feature call locking differential.
Secondly, it is different sized vehicle. It is bigger, and along with the benefits of that come the negatives.
If it wasn't considered a different vehicle, why would GM produce both a Yukon and a Yukon XL. Let's compare apples to apples. The true comparison here is Yukon to Sequoia. Not a larger vehicle that is clearly positioned upscale.
Also while it's true there are few options on a Denali, the option list on a Yukon are huge (at least in Canada). The Sequoia has few options and when you start paying for sunroofs, wheel packages, larger engine, axle ratios, towing packages a loaded Yukon is very expensive and priced comparably to a Limited Sequoia.
You may want to read more about Toyota four wheel systems. I drive with mine in four wheel drive on dry roads all the time. Doesn't that qualify as a AWD option? Plus it has 4wd low. That should come in handy while pulling Denali AWD equiped SUVs out snow drifts.
And you have been drinking the GM Kool-Aid again. It doesn't matter what GM calls their light duty, passenger car transmission, be it Turbo350, 4L60E 4L60E HD or 4L65E it's still the same basic product with some beefed up parts. That transmission was never designed for the horsepower of the 6.0L or the weight of an SUV. It is however, a cash cow for the transmission repair industry. You can't made a silk purse out of a sow's ear. Your AWD argument is irrelevant, the AWD system is a separate unit from the transmission. So why doesn't GM use their best and strongest transmission, the 4L80E in their top of the line vehicles????????? And while we are on the drive train subject, why do they use the light duty, passenger car rear end on the same vehicles? Check out any GM discussion board for transmission and rear end issues, there are many. I still do not understand how GM can quote such high tow ratings with such a light duty drive train.
And what is the warranty on your Denanli??? 3/36? Can you still get the extended warranty? I sure like that 60K warranty on my Sequoia.
Joker35: The GM tow/haul switch determines when and how fast the transmission shifts gears. It's not another gear. If you need more power at low speeds and don't have low range gearing, you just push on the GAS and hope for the best.
3lakeswi: GM's push button 4WD. Don't push any of the FOUR buttons unless you read the manual first; the damage is not covered by the warranty. The Sequoia system is simplicity itself and requires no knowledge of 4WD systems at all. Just ONE button marked 4WD. What could be easier? It's fool proof and damage proof and will satisfy 90% of owners; the other 10% will figure out what the lever on the floor does. Ever wonder what a parking valet could do to a part time 4WD just by pushing a button?
And since you asked, My boat's little, but the ramps can be nasty, thanks Cliffy for explaining that. My reference to a pre 2000 vehicle was for insurance purposes only.
Doudoudid: Great idea, a separate forum for Seq. v. GM. How about it?
714cut: touché!
Great discussion it's good to see that this forum is back in the top 10!
2nd question: after you use the starter to warm up your car, do you still need to insult key when you drive away? if yes, the key needs to pass the ignition position again? i'm sorry if these questions sound a bit dumb, but i really don't understand how it works, cos i thought to myself if the answer is no, then there must be a button on the remote starter to turn off the engine, will it be dangerous putting it into the pocket or even inside the car when the car is moving?
also thanks heatwave3 and aix91 for the answers....
Doudoudid: I've insulted a few people in my time but never my key. Maybe your on to something. I'll try it next time to see it helps my gas milage.
I chose to go by the rpm guidelines (after 1 hour for the first 20 miles in LA traffic). I varied my engine speed between 2000 and 3000 rpm and I alternated OD on and off to vary vehicle speed. I still did have to endure scoffs from my mechanic friends but it's my car and I plan to have it for 10+ years at ~18 to 20k miles per year.
I have read enough one-sided Toyota news for one week and will refrain from future postings to this forum - though I will continue to read. My effort is futile (or should I say feudal?). I gave a lengthy, unbiased, comparison between the GMC (oops I said it) and Toyota a few posts ago. It was what I gathered from OWNING BOTH of the vehicles for an extended period of time. If anyone else out there owns both a Sequoia and a Yukon/Tahoe (there it is again) I welcome your thoughts, without bias or prejudice, as well.
I have to go wash and wax my Toyota - did you know the Toyota is shinier than every other SUV on the market? It's true - just ask Cliffy or 2heeldrive.
3lakeswi wrote:
"I would bet since they are making a cookie-cutter vehicle to rival the Expedition that the quality will fall and correspondingly the resale. These vehicles are NOT LandCruisers by any stretch of the imagination. The LandCruiser is tried and true - WORLDWIDE. The Sequoia is an Expedition with a Toyota badge and hence better (initially) reputation for quality and resale. As I said, only time will tell."
Describing the Sequoia as a cookie cutter Ford Expedition with a Toyota badge? Come on now that's really a stretch! And then after saying that you whine about being chastised for negative posts?
And perhaps you didn't know that the Sequoia and Land Cruiser share the same "tried and true" drivetrain. (Fact).
If you are really that unhappy with the Sequoia, see what the resale value is and buy another Yukon. Maybe Heatwave will let you use his GM supplier discount.
2HD.
Thanks in advance.
Thanks.
thanks for making fun of my English, as a foreigner i have tried very hard to communicate to you American. may be i shouldn't. next time you should try using my language, IF YOU CAN and stick to your own engineering instead of buying our country's products.
And BTW, many people here have tried to help you with your unending questions about a remote starter for the Sequoia. Aren't you satisfied yet ? Do you even own this vehicle yet ? Just in case you forgot or missed the answers, you could buy one for $55 from Staples, or have your dealer install one for $500. Satisfied ????
I hope no one bothers to answer any of your other silly questions and hope that you just go away to some other forum and badger them all over again about something even sillier than a remote starter !
Grow up !!!
pschreck and 2heeldrive: The Denali and the Escalade do not offer a low 4wd. I suppose it would be nice to have and in fact I have had 4wd low in the 4 previous 4wd vehicles I have owned (Nissan, Jeep and two Chevy Subs before this GMC Denali XL). For those of you on your first 4wd vehicle, your about to find out that you will rarely, if ever use 4wd low during the entire time you own it (other than the first day you bring it home and put it in low for the wifey and kids).
Over the past 20 years I have used it maybe 3-4 times. Even for off-roading, I found myself primarily using 4wd but not low gear. Maybe on the beach or doing some modest rock climbing, but those are very rare occasions for me and I suspect for most people. Would it be a nice insurance policy...yes, but in the end I think most people will almost never use it.
714cut: Sorry my friend, but it is just as reasonable to compare a Sequoia to a Yukon XL as it is to a Yukon. Here's my reasons:
Comparisons of fully loaded, 4wd models
Vehicle Length Weight Turning rad Edmunds TMV$
Yukon 197" 5,050lbs 38.3ft $40,500
Yukon XL 219" 5,123lbs 42.3ft $41,000
Seq Lmt 204" 5,270lbs 42.3ft $42,000
For the record the Edmunds TMV $ on a Denali is $43,000 and the XL is about $44,500.
I think based on weight, turning radius and price plus the length being in between the Yukon and the XL, it is equally legitimate to compare the Sequoia to either the Yukon or XL.
by the way what make you think that i don't even own the vehicle, this is the first time i aware that people will suspect on this, may be people around you keep lying all the time, but i don't grow up like that.
The auto4wd system in the Sequoia has power going to the front wheels until the rear tires lose traction, at which the center diff than briefly transfers power to the front wheels until the rear tires regain traction. This is not an instantaneous tranfer as there will always be some lag in the transfer of the power. In slippery conditions (or even non-slippery) it is always preferable to have AWD over auto4wd, however auto4wd is definitely better than a 4wd system where it must first be mannually engaged by the driver. However even here, it may be preferable under some conditions to have 4wd over auto4wd, if having constant power to the front wheels is desirable.
2heeldrive: would you care to share any data supporting your sophmoric view regarding GM's transmissions "That transmission was never designed for the horsepower of the 6.0L or the weight of an SUV." or is this just another Toyota fan losing a rocker arm.
There are no passenger cars running with any of GMC's truck transmissions and I am quite confident that the GMC transmission in the lightest duty truck is beefier than the Sequoia's transmission, given its paltry 245hp which is exceeded even by Chevy's mid-size TrailBlazer suv with its 270hp 6 cyl engine.
Regarding your statement "If you need more power at low speeds and don't have low range gearing, you just push on the GAS and hope for the best." I think Sequoia owners will be doing alot more hoping with their foot on the gas of that anemic 245hp when compared with the 320hp beast in the Denali.
Regarding your other statement "The Sequoia system is simplicity itself and requires no knowledge of 4WD systems at all. Just ONE button marked 4WD. What could be easier? It's fool proof and damage proof and will satisfy 90% of owners; the other 10% will figure out what the lever on the floor does."
I'll tell you what's easier...how about no buttons to push at all as in the GMC Denali. Just gobs of HP, tons of grunting torque, all hooked up to maximum traction all the time to all four corners. That's what I call simple and more fun than should be legal.
3lakeswi: don't get out now! It's just getting to be fun, like shooting fish in a barrel:)
You are in denial that your top of the line GM vehicle does not have GM's best and strongest transmission, but it is a fact, not a "Sophomoric view". Get over it Dude, ask any transmission shop or your friendly GM service manager. You can't get that kind of information in a brochure or on a web site. How do I know? 27 years of experience.
What's the point of comparing GM and Toyota transmissions? The Sequoia uses Toyota's best and strongest transmission. The same transmission that is in the LandCruiser, Lexus LX, LS, GS, and SC (300hp).
The Denali AWD system may be simple but it's not much good off road. The viscous coupling will overheat and fail if used off road. See this link for more info: http://www.4x4abc.com/4WD101/awd.html
Despite your best efforts I am unconvinced that the Sequoia and the Yukon XL are comparable. They are clearly sold as different vehicles by the same manufacturer. I looked at XL but it was too big for me. It goes beyond their weight and turning radius. I think most people would consider the Yukon vs. Sequoia as the better choice.
Regarding AWD, as with everything there are pros and cons. You have pointed out some pros but AWD is generally regarded as inferior in many ways to 4WD such as no low range, lack of locking full time 4wd etc.
Also are you saying that a Sequoia Ltd. is only $1000 more than a Yukon XL or slightly more than that vs a Yukon? Wow, what a deal. Give me the Sequoia any day as a lot of the negative posts have been about Sequoia price.
I think your other numbers are off on Denali. As noted earlier a Denali XL in Canada is $7000 more than a Sequoia Limited.
--I think the HVAC fan is too noisy
--the rear window defogger seems inadequate at times
--I agree the wheels look a little small for the wheel wells
--I would prefer push button 4wd controls. I find the floor shift lever gets in the way and there is some noise transfer.
--the stereo is not the best
--and I'd be lying if I didn't say more power would be nice. Not because its underpowered, but because more is always nice and it would be great to have 300 hp to cool down heatwave comparisons
--I also like bells and whistles and the Sequoia could use some more.
I read your post, and thought, "Damn, he's read my mind". My wife has had hers for 4 months, and my critique would be just about identical to yours.
-The HVAC is noisy - and it would be nice to be able to have different temps left side versus right side.
-The rear defogger could work better.
-Toyota should be embarassed for calling the JBL stereo "Premium" without a subwoofer, and the power antenna is an accident waiting to happen
-More power is always good. I'm on a list at my dealer to purchase the TRD supercharger when it is released in the spring. ($3000-ish for +40% HP and Torque, no effect upon warranty!!! ) It should be a factory available option.
That's about it for now. I'll check in as soon as the snow starts falling to see if I have any other complaints.