“You need to drive it to feel the comfort and safety of the vehicle before you make any decision.”
2016 Toyota Sequoia: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2016 Toyota Sequoia is a light carryover update rather than a redesign. Its main change is upgraded Entune 2.5 multimedia with Siri Eyes Free across the lineup.
About the 2016 Toyota Sequoia
2nd generation (2008-2017), late-cycle model before the 2018 exterior and tech update.
The Sequoia is Toyota’s traditional full-size SUV: body-on-frame, V8-powered, and built for families who need real towing ability, a usable third row, and more rough-road confidence than a car-based crossover. Toyota sells it as a roomy, comfortable family hauler that can also tow a big trailer and handle bad weather or dirt roads with less fuss, while keeping the brand’s reputation for durability and everyday usability.
The SR5 covers the essentials with a 5.7-liter V8, three-row seating, a tow package, tri-zone climate control, and a 6.1-inch touchscreen. The Limited adds leather-trimmed heated front seats, parking sensors, and a power-folding third row, while the Platinum brings adaptive cruise control, an adjustable load-leveling suspension, and rear-seat Blu-ray entertainment.
What changed, by category
Tech
Every trim received Entune 2.5 software and Siri Eyes Free voice control. The SR5 gained standard Connected Navigation, while the Platinum’s JBL navigation and audio system received quicker responses.
Safety
The Limited gained a new optional Safety and Convenience package with blind-spot monitoring and driver memory features. There was no lineup-wide safety hardware change.
2016 Toyota Sequoia specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 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 | Auto, 6-Spd Seq Shft | Auto, 6-Spd Seq Shft | Auto, 6-Spd Seq Shft |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD | 2WD / 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel |
| MPG City | 13 mpg | 13 mpg | 13 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg |
| Horsepower | 381 hp | 381 hp | 381 hp |
| Torque | 401 lb-ft | 401 lb-ft | 401 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7100 lb | 7100 lb | 7000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 120.1 cu-ft | 120.1 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 | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Front & Rear Parking Sensors | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Touch Screen Monitor | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| 115V Power Outlet | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| 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 Driver Seat | |||
| Power Folding Third Row Seat | |||
| Rear Window Shades | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Toyota Sequoia?
The biggest change is the Entune 2.5 multimedia upgrade. It adds Siri Eyes Free to every trim, while the SR5 also gains standard Connected Navigation.
Is the 2016 Toyota Sequoia redesigned?
No, the 2016 Sequoia is not redesigned. It remains part of the second generation introduced for 2008, with only light multimedia and equipment updates for this year.
Does every 2016 Toyota Sequoia have Siri Eyes Free?
Yes, every 2016 Sequoia trim has Siri Eyes Free through the updated Entune 2.5 multimedia software.
Did the 2016 Toyota Sequoia get a new engine or transmission?
No, the engine and transmission carry over. Every trim keeps the 5.7-liter V8 and six-speed automatic.
How is the 2016 Toyota Sequoia different from the 2015 model?
The 2016 model is mainly different in its multimedia features. It adds Entune 2.5 and Siri Eyes Free across the lineup, gives the SR5 standard Connected Navigation, and introduces an optional Safety and Convenience package for the Limited; the V8, transmission, chassis, and three-trim lineup carry over.
2016 Toyota Sequoia Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Toyota Sequoia.
4.4
2016 Toyota Sequoia
(126 reviews)
“Lots of interior space and room for many passengers. Comfortable and rugged. Love it!”
“If you want a very comfortable large SUV with spacious seating for 8, which converts to a huge storage back area in seconds - THIS IS THE SUV YOU SHOULD PURCHASE.”