2009 Toyota Sequoia: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2009 Toyota Sequoia received only a light update, led by E85 flex-fuel capability on some four-wheel-drive models with the 5.7-liter V8 in select regions. Otherwise, this large three-row SUV remained close to the Sequoia redesigned for 2008.
About the 2009 Toyota Sequoia
2nd gen (2008-2022), second model year after the 2008 redesign.
Toyota positioned the Sequoia as its biggest family SUV: a full-size, body-on-frame hauler that mixed three-row room with serious towing and rough-road durability. The core appeal was simple—carry a lot of people, pull a heavy trailer, and still offer a more polished cabin than many truck-based rivals. Compared with competitors, Toyota leaned on the Sequoia’s usable interior space, strong V8 power, and family-friendly seating flexibility rather than flashy styling.
The SR5 is the straightforward family-and-towing version, with three-zone climate control and seating for eight. Limited adds leather, heated front seats, parking sensors, and a power-folding third row, while the seven-seat Platinum brings navigation, heated and cooled front seats, second-row captain's chairs, and a comfort-focused air suspension.
What changed, by category
2009 Toyota Sequoia specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 4.7 Liter / V8, 5.7 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 5.7 Liter | V8, 5.7 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 5.7 Liter | V8, 5.7 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 5.7 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel |
| MPG City | 13–14 mpg | 13 mpg | 13 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 17–18 mpg | 18 mpg | 18 mpg |
| Horsepower | 276–381 hp | 381 hp | 381 hp |
| Torque | 314–401 lb-ft | 401 lb-ft | 401 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 9600 lb | 9100 lb | 9100 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 120.8 cu-ft | 120.8 cu-ft | 120.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.3 in | 35.3 in | 35.3 in |
| Seats | 8 | 8 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Front & Rear Parking Sensors | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Side Steps | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Cooled Seats | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Rear Seats | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||
| Memory Front Seats | |||
| Memory Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Folding Third Row Seat | |||
| Rear Window Shades | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2009 Toyota Sequoia redesigned?
No. The 2009 Sequoia was the second model year of the generation introduced for 2008, so its basic design, structure, styling, safety equipment, and technology largely carried over.
What was the main change to the 2009 Toyota Sequoia?
The main change was E85 flex-fuel capability for some four-wheel-drive Sequoias with the 5.7-liter V8 in select regions. Most of the lineup otherwise carried over without major updates.
Did every 2009 Sequoia with the 5.7-liter V8 support E85?
No. E85 capability applied only to some four-wheel-drive 5.7-liter models sold in select regions, not every 2009 Sequoia with that engine.
Which trim levels joined the 2009 Toyota Sequoia lineup?
The 2009 lineup added SR5, Limited, and Platinum trim entries. SR5 focuses on basic family utility, Limited adds comfort features, and Platinum is the luxury-focused version.
How do the 2009 Sequoia SR5, Limited, and Platinum differ?
SR5 is the straightforward eight-seat version, Limited adds leather and easier third-row use, and Platinum is the seven-seat luxury model with navigation, second-row captain's chairs, heated and cooled front seats, and an upgraded suspension.