What year did Toyota put the 5.7 in a Sequoia?

The 5.7-liter V8 first appeared in the Toyota Sequoia with the 2008 model year, and it remained the primary gasoline engine through the end of the second-generation Sequoia before the lineup shifted to a newer powertrain in the third generation. This article traces that timeline and what it meant for Sequoia buyers.

Timeline of the 5.7L in the Sequoia

Below are the key milestones outlining when Toyota introduced and maintained the 5.7L i-Force V8 in the Sequoia, and when a changeover began.

• 2008 model year: Sequoia gains the 5.7L i-Force V8, replacing the previous 4.7L V8 as the available V8 option.


• 2008–2022: The 5.7L V8 remains the sole gasoline V8 option across Sequoia trims, typically paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and available in 2WD or 4WD configurations.


• 2023 model year: Toyota introduces the third-generation Sequoia with a new powertrain lineup, moving away from the 5.7L V8 to a different engineering approach (i-Force MAX 3.5L V6 hybrid in the latest designs).

In summary, the 5.7L was a fixture in the Sequoia from 2008 through the 2022 model year, before the generation change introduced a new engine strategy.

Engine specs and what it meant for owners

Understanding the 5.7L V8 in the Sequoia helps explain performance, towing capability, and maintenance considerations that affected buyers during its run.

Key specifications

• Engine: 5.7-liter V8 (i-Force)


• Estimated output: approximately 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque (variations by model year)


• Transmission: 6-speed automatic with 2WD and 4WD options


• Towing capacity: typically around 7,000–7,500 pounds depending on configuration

These specs helped define the Sequoia’s role as a capable family and utility SUV, particularly for towing and highway use, during the 2008–2022 period.

What changed with the third generation

With the arrival of the third-generation Sequoia, Toyota shifted to newer powertrain technology, moving away from the 5.7L V8. The latest Sequoia models employ a hybridized i-Force MAX powertrain based on a 3.5-liter V6, reflecting Toyota’s broader move toward electrified solutions in its large SUVs.

Why this matters to buyers and enthusiasts

The switch from the 5.7L V8 to a different setup marks a notable change in performance characteristics, fuel economy, and maintenance considerations for Sequoia buyers. While the 5.7L offered robust torque for towing, the newer powertrain prioritizes efficiency and modern electrification benefits without sacrificing capability.

Summary

In brief: Toyota introduced the 5.7-liter V8 to the Sequoia in the 2008 model year and continued to offer it through the 2022 model year. The third generation, starting in 2023, switched to a different powertrain approach, moving away from the traditional 5.7L V8 to a hybrid V6 setup. For collectors and long-time owners, the 2008–2022 Sequoias with the 5.7L remain a recognizable era of Toyota’s full-size SUV history.

What are the bad years to avoid Toyota Sequoia?

The Toyota Sequoia years to avoid are primarily the first generation models from 2001 to 2008 due to issues like frame rust, and potential problems with the engine, brakes, and steering. Within the second generation, 2008-2010 models also have specific concerns, such as secondary air injection system issues. 
First generation (2001-2007)

• 2001-2008: These years are frequently cited for being problematic due to a range of defects, including frame rust, steering issues, and engine and brake problems. 
• 2001-2007: Often mentioned for a higher risk of frame rust, especially if you live in an area that uses road salt. 
• 2002: This year stands out as having a high volume of severe complaints, notes CarBuzz. 
• 2003: Multiple recalls and issues with the Vehicle Stability Control system. 
• 2004: Subject to the Takata airbag recall. 
• 2006: Recalled 10 times by the NHTSA. 

You can watch this video to learn about the common problems of the Toyota Sequoia: 55sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Jan 3, 2024
Second generation (2008-2017)

• 2008-2010: These models can have issues with the secondary air injection system, which can be expensive to fix. Early models also had a recall for accelerator pedal friction. 
• 2009: A recall for oil leaks that could lead to a sudden loss of power steering assistance. 
• 2017: Cited as a year to avoid by some sources. 

Is the Toyota 5.7 V8 a good engine?

Yes, the Toyota 5.7L V8 is generally considered a very good and reliable engine, known for its longevity and performance, though it has a few known issues. It is praised for its durability and is capable of reaching high mileage with proper maintenance, but potential problems include some early model cam gear and timing chain issues, along with later concerns like broken intake valve springs and oil leaks. 
You can watch this video to learn about common issues with the Toyota 5.7L V8 engine: 47sI Do CarsYouTube · Mar 23, 2025
Pros of the Toyota 5.7L V8

• Reliability and longevity: The engine is known for its robust design and can last for hundreds of thousands of miles, with many examples reaching over 400,000 to 500,000 miles. 
• Strong performance: It produces a significant amount of horsepower (381381381 hp) and torque (401401401 lb-ft), making it well-suited for towing and heavy-duty use. 
• Solid build: The engine is considered "over-built" and can handle more power than it produces stock, with many owners adding superchargers or tuning it for increased performance. 
• Timing chain: Unlike some older engines, it uses a timing chain, which typically requires less maintenance and can last the life of the engine. 

This video demonstrates how to perform maintenance on the Toyota 5.7L V8 engine: 41s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Nov 21, 2024
Potential drawbacks and common issues

• Early model problems: The first model years (around 2007) had some early issues, including problems with the cam gear and timing chain tensioner. 
• Valve issues: There have been reports of broken valve springs and dropped valves, though this is not a universal issue. 
• Oil and coolant leaks: Some owners report issues with cam tower oil leaks and coolant leaks from the valley pan. 
• Fuel efficiency: As a large V8, it is not very fuel-efficient. 

When did Toyota change the engine in the Sequoia?

2010
For the 2010 model year the 4.7 L V8 is replaced by an all-new 4.6 L 1UR-FE engine paired to a six-speed automatic transmission.

What is the last year Toyota put a V8 in the Sequoia?

The Sequoia and its V8 engine stayed the same between 2008 and 2022 because Toyota didn't see a need to since the V8 engine worked so well. Eventually, in 2022, Toyota did end up moving on from the V8 Sequoia and came up with a whole new system for the 2023 Sequoia model.