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Which Sequoia has captain chairs?

Captain chairs are the two individual seats in the second row, as opposed to a single bench that spans the width of the row. In Toyota’s Sequoia lineup, the second row can be configured with captain’s chairs on higher trims; the base SR5 generally uses a bench seat. Capstone and many upper trims tend to offer captain’s chairs, but exact availability can vary by model year and market.


Understanding the Sequoia’s second-row seating


The Sequoia’s interior can be configured for eight or seven passengers depending on whether the second row is a bench or captain’s chairs. Captain’s chairs make it easier to access the third row and often come with premium seating features, which is why they’re more common on higher-end trims.


Trim-by-trim guide to captain chairs


Below is a quick guide to which current-generation Sequoia trims typically offer second-row captain's chairs. Availability can differ by year and region, and some configurations may require a package.



  • SR5: Typically comes with a second-row bench seat (three across) by default; captain’s chairs are not standard.

  • SR5 Premium: May offer captain’s chairs as part of an optional package or market-specific configuration.

  • Limited: Often available with captain’s chairs, either as standard or as an upgrade depending on the model year.

  • Platinum: Usually ships with second-row captain’s chairs as standard, reflecting its luxury focus.

  • Capstone: The flagship trim typically includes 2nd-row captain’s chairs as standard along with high-end interior features.

  • TRD Pro / off-road trims: These emphasize rugged equipment; captain’s chairs are not the default focus and may not be available on all configurations.


Conclusion: If captain’s chairs are important, target Capstone or Platinum for likely standard inclusion, check Limited for possible availability in your year, and note that SR5 generally uses a bench seat. Always confirm the exact seating arrangement with a dealer for your specific model year and region.


Why seating configuration matters


Seating layout affects passenger comfort, entry and exit, and the practicality of accessing the third row on long trips. For families or anyone frequently loading and unloading passengers in the back, captain’s chairs can significantly ease movement and provide a more premium experience.


Additional considerations


Beyond second-row seating, buyers should consider factors such as cargo space with the seats folded, climate control for rear passengers, seat materials, power-adjustment options, and how seating options interact with other features like rear-seat entertainment or USB charging. The Sequoia’s premium trims pair captain’s chairs with refined materials and technology to enhance overall comfort and convenience.


Summary


Captain chairs are most commonly found on the Sequoia’s higher trims, with Capstone and Platinum often including them as standard. The base SR5 typically uses a second-row bench, and some mid-range trims may offer captain’s chairs as an option depending on the model year and market. If captain chairs are a must-have, verify the exact seating configuration for your target year and region with a Toyota dealer.

Does the Toyota Sequoia have captain chairs?


Second-Row Seating
Sequoia's size speaks for itself. With second-row bench seats that make room for up to eight or available captain's chairs that seat up to seven, the whole family can stay close and still have plenty of space.



What is the difference between the Sequoia Platinum and Limited?


The main differences between the Toyota Sequoia Limited and Platinum are that the Platinum trim adds more premium features, such as standard leather upholstery, heated and ventilated second-row seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a higher-end audio system. While the Limited has a powerful engine and upscale amenities like heated front seats and SofTex upholstery, the Platinum enhances comfort, technology, and luxury touches. 

Feature Sequoia Limited Sequoia Platinum
Interior Upholstery SofTex-trimmed seats Leather-trimmed seats with premium contrast stitching
Front Seats 8-way power front seats with 2-way lumbar control 10-way power front seats with 4-way lumbar support
Front Seat Function Heated Heated and ventilated
Second-Row Seats Standard with heat Heated and ventilated second-row captain's chairs
Sunroof Moonroof with a sliding shade Panoramic sunroof with a power sunshade
Audio System Standard 14-speaker JBL premium audio system
Steering Wheel Standard Power tilt/telescopic with heating
Exterior Details 20-inch dark gray-painted and machined-finish alloy wheels, chrome mirror caps, and roof rails Premium LED headlights, sequential turn signals, and dark chrome mesh grille
Other Features Standard three-zone automatic climate control Standard three-zone climate control with climate-controlled seats in the front and middle rows
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What year of Toyota Sequoia to stay away from?


You should be wary of Toyota Sequoia model years 2001-2008, as they experienced a higher number of issues, particularly concerning rust, brake problems, and various electronic failures in early years like 2001 and 2002. The 2008 model also introduced the second generation with early transmission concerns, notes MotorBiscuit. Additionally, some models from 2004-2010 are prone to frame rust.
 
Models to be cautious about

  • 2001-2004: These years had engine, brake, and rust issues. 
  • 2002: This model is particularly flagged for problems with the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), oxygen sensors, and premature brake wear. 
  • 2008: As the first year of the second generation, it can have early transmission problems. 
  • 2004-2010: These models have a higher risk of frame and suspension rust. 

Other considerations
  • Recalls: Check for open recalls on any model year you are considering, as some years have had multiple recalls (e.g., 2020 and 2021). 
  • Maintenance: Even with a model year known for issues, a thoroughly maintained vehicle with a solid history can still be a good purchase, so check maintenance records. 



Which Toyota models have captain seats?


Several Toyota models offer captain's chairs, including the Sienna, Grand Highlander, Highlander, Sequoia, and 4Runner. The availability of captain's chairs often depends on the trim level, with some models offering them as an option for a seating capacity of seven instead of the eight-passenger bench seat configuration. 
Toyota models with captain's chairs

  • Toyota Sienna: Comes standard with second-row captain's chairs and can seat up to seven or eight passengers depending on the configuration. 
  • Toyota Grand Highlander: Available with second-row captain's chairs. 
  • Toyota Highlander: Offers captain's chairs in its seven-passenger configuration. 
  • Toyota Sequoia: Can be configured with optional second-row captain's chairs for seating up to seven passengers. 
  • Toyota 4Runner: Some configurations offer captain's chairs, which reduces the maximum seating capacity to six. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.