If we are not in need to combat global warming and meet the 35-mpg standard fuel consumption, larger vehicles would have still mattered a lot to everyone. But, I’m not talking about the Jeep type with good-looking Jeep fender flare or any other large vehicle. What I am pointing at are the full-size SUVs, such as the Toyota Sequoia, the Japanese automaker’s biggest product in the segment, which has been made larger for 2008 model year.

The world’s largest automaker intended to have the Sequoia resemble the Tundra pickup, adapting its B-pillar forward. The 2008 Sequoia has also taken few parts same with the Tundra, such as the control-arm front suspension, an optional 5.7 L V-8 engine, and a six-speed automatic transmission. The difference comes from a stouter, fully boxed frame along with an independent rear suspension with optional air-spring load leveling, and available variable damping.

For 2008 model year, the Sequoia’s wheelbase has been stretched. The rear doors were imporved and made wider to open, improving access to the back seats and at the same time increasing leg and shoulder space. However, the cargo capacity has been quite reduced, considering that the third row can no longer be jettisoned. Both benches and the front passenger seat can be folded flat, adding up the already spacious passenger space.

Toyota also enhanced the Sequoia power, from 273 hp to 381 hp. The new model also comes with a tighter turning circle that improves maneuverability. And due to the tall top gear of the six-speed automatic, the 2008 Sequoia’s highway mileage was improved at 5.7 L by 1 or 2 mpg better than the 4.7 L of last year’s V-8 -powered Sequoia.

Considering the capacity of the Sequoia it seems its practicality extend only to families with eight members. And it could even pass as an alternative to a motorhome.