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There is a respectable JBL cassette and six-disc, in-dash CD changer with 10 speakers and steering wheel audio controls, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, and all the bells and whistles you'd expect for a vehicle in this price range (about $60,000), including a good-sized moon roof.

The only issue we had with the interior was with the copious amounts of burled wood trim. It was obviously grown from Plasticus Cheapus, not a Giant Redwood (the vehicle's namesake).

I took the 2006 Sequoia for a spin around the side roads of Caledon, Ont., which provide a good mix of paved highways through to unimproved dirt roads. They were wet, muddy in places, with snow and ice on the occasional shady lane. Perfect.

As I set off, I immediately noticed the impressive pulling power. This vehicle, for its size, is certainly no slouch. The ride is solid, assuring, quiet and comfortable, although I did experience noticeable wind buffeting at speed.

Rough terrain and potholes were soaked up by the well-tuned suspension and barely noticeable. Its high seating position offers a commanding view, and all round visibility is reassuring.

This is the perfect vehicle for harsh winters, and it is more than capable for towing smaller horse boxes and utility trailers. The Sequoia is not a permanent 4WD vehicle, and when manoeuvring on gravel and dirt, I noticed wheelspin occurs easily from the power the V8 kicks out. At a press of a button this is solved as 4WD is activated. There is also rear air ride to compensate for heavy payloads.

VERDICT: 7+ out of 10

A solid vehicle that offers comfort and capability. Overall the driving experience was pure pleasure. My only issue was I felt that some interior improvements could be made, particularly for a vehicle in this price range. So is this vehicle overpriced? With Toyota's renowned reputation for reliability, and many Toyota previous owners having experienced years of trouble-free driving, probably not.

MSRP for the 2006 Sequoia SR5 V8 is $58,210, while the Sequoia Limited V8 has an MSRP of $66,100.