Sequoia gets bigger

Leading Japanese car maker Toyota has launched its biggest car to date in the kingdom - Sequoia.

The all new Toyota Sequoia 2009 was launched at the Toyota Showroom in Sitra by Ebrahim K Kanoo, the sole distributor for Toyota and Lexus in Bahrain.

Ayman Shehadeh, Toyota and Lexus brand manager said: "The Sequoia will create new standards for the big car segment."

Intensive research and analyses were conducted to study the Gulf market before unveiling the brand.

The look and feel of the all new Toyota Sequoia has been designed to catch the eye while retaining the familiar stamp of the brand's quality. Its design and engineering meet the needs of drivers looking for a full-size SUV which provides versatility to accommodate various usage needs, a spacious interior, powerful driving performance and a sense of security, while meeting the latest global standards on emissions and safety.

Ismail Akbar, executive general manager of sales at Ebrahim K Kanoo, said: "The all new Toyota Sequoia will exceed the expectations of our customers and those who have marvelled at the wonderful engineering that Toyota cars have.

"Toyota Sequoia is not a new product in the Toyota range. It may be new to the region, but Toyota Sequoia has been being sold successfully in the United States and many parts of the world since 2000.

"We are 100 per cent confident that the all new Toyota Sequoia lives up to the respected reputation of Toyota as being the number one car manufacturer in the world."

The engine, transmission and platform in the Sequoia were all newly developed using cutting edge technology to provide power performance, handling performance and driving performance that are top of their class. The Toyota Sequoia features a 5.7 litre, V8 engine with 381 HP, which uses Chain Drive and Dual VVT-I (Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence) for more power and better fuel economy.

A new six-speed super intelligent electronically controlled transmission (Al Shift) also fully utilises the engine torque and increases power, on-road acceleration and fuel efficiency.

Also, to make handling more stable and safer, systems such as Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-Lock Braking Systems with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist come as standard equipment in the all new Toyota Sequoia.

The Sequoia comes in 10 different colours. The spacious interior and cargo space dominate the competition with practical utility and versatility especially with seat configuration.

Mr Shehadeh said: "In developing the Toyota Sequoia, the efforts of Toyota Motor Corporation engineers and technicians were joined to make an SUV that meets the smallest details of the users' needs.

"The main objective was to produce a truly competitive full-size SUV with exceptional power, ride comfort and operability. "

Despite the global recession catching up to various parts of the society and the motor industry proving no exception, officials of the brand in the kingdom seem optimistic.

Mr Shehadeh said: "December was low because of the holidays but I think we are OK. Bahrain will be the least affected in the GCC and Toyota will be the least affected in Bahrain."

The three models of the Sequoia costs between BD13,600 to BD19,900. For more information call 17730730.