Toyota’s full-size SUV, the Sequoia, drops an engine and adds Blu-Ray in the back for 2013. This 8-seat family-friendly vehicle now has more power thanks to the 5.7-liter V8 making 381 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque introduced last year, which is now available at all trim levels. It is matched to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with AWD drive available at each trim level.

The levels of trim begin with the well-equipped SR5, which includes fog lights, moonroof, roof rack, and an 8-speaker AM/FM/CD player; 18-inch wheels are standard, with an option for 20-inchers. Next up is the Limited level, which adds a power liftgate, heated/powered external mirrors, and 14-speaker 6-CD system and makes the 20-inchers standard. The Platinum, of course, contains all the features of the others, plus goodies such as a power telescoping steering wheel and diamond-cut finished alloy wheels. Good news for the kids is a Blu-Ray system for the rear seats, standard for Platinum trims and optional for Limiteds.

Inside, the Sequoia is nice and roomy, with seating for 8 people—7 if you opt for the second-row captain’s chairs. Everyone, even those tucked in the third row, will not feel cramped, and access to the back is made easy by long, wide rear doors. To make sure no one is thirsty, Toyota boasts the Sequoia has 16 cup/bottle holders, 18 in the Platinum, and a number of other storage spaces accessible to drivers and passengers. With the back 2 rows folded, the Sequoia offers 120.1 cubic feet of storage space.

Of course, the Sequoia is also very powerful, having a maximum towing capacity of 7,400 pounds. The car itself weighs almost 6,000 pounds, and because of that, pays the price at the pump: It is estimated to get 13 mpg city/18 highway. But because of its size, the Sequoia can be difficult to maneuver and park. True sporting enthusiasts may lament its lack of off-road-type equipment options, but the vehicle is loved by large, upscale families that crave comfort and power in spite of those drawbacks.

In addition to the plethora of standard safety features like 8 airbags with full-length side curtains, Trailer Sway Control is standard this year. Available for Platinum models is a Blind Spot Monitor.

The Sequoia has been a hit, and now that it has an upgraded engine for all trim levels, it's sure to gain more traction against its competitors, including the Chevy Tahoe and the Ford Expedition.