3rd Row Seat question on '04

[JenDawn]

I currently own a Sequoia. I used to own a Durango, which I loved. The Sequoia is way cool ... but it is also way big compared to my old Durango. For me, the Durango was a perfect size. It had 7 seats and enough room behind the 3rd seat for groceries, etc... and it was fairly easy to manuever in and out of parking spaces, to see behind me when I'm pulling out, to clearly see if there are any cars next to me when I'm about to switch lanes, etc.

We are now considering trading in the Sequoia for either a 4-Runner or a Highlander. I totally love that the 3rd row seat folds down in the Highlander, just like in the Durango. However, I also like the more sporty SUV look and feel of the 4-Runner. The problem is that I'm worried I'll get frustrated with the 3rd row seat in the 4-Runner, since it doesn't easily fold down and hide away.

So, for people who have the 3rd seat option, tell me what it's like. Is it convenient? Do you find there's plenty of room for things like $200 worth of groceries when the seats are folded away to the side? Is there any space whatsoever behind the 3rd seat when it is in normal sitting position? I worry that I'll ended up keeping the seats out all together and then I won't have them in if something comes up and I'm not at home where I can put them back in.

We looked at Highlanders and 4-Runners a few months ago, but never talked to a salesman at the time and didn't see any 4-Runners with the 3rd seat. We may go looking tomorrow, but I thought I'd get some input from you 4-Runner folks.

I have 2 kids, so I don't need that 3rd row very often, but it sure comes in handy from time to time.

We are in a lease, so we'll only trade for another Toyota or not trade at all.

Thanks for your input!

Jen

 

[leftyrb]

I have the 3rd row seats on my 04 SR5. They consist of two seats that flip up against the side window. They are not much good for taller people, as both leg and head room is limited.

As I had no use for them at this time, I simply removed them and stored them away in the house. They are light and easy to remove. With them removed, you get full access to the rear. With 3rd row, you also get fold forward seats to enable access to the rear. I believe the second row seat armrest is also different. You also get taller headrests for the second row. I simply folded one seatback ahead to enable a better view when backing up.

Hope this helps

 

[JenDawn]

Thanks for your reply. What is the cargo space like with the 3rd row seats folded to the side? I imagine if I got the 4-Runner, I'd probably keep the seats folded to the side most of the time ... unless they simply took up too much space ... in which case, I might not even want the 4-Runner.

 

[02sport]

have a look at this thread...a few pics here

 

[mswscco]

For smaller parcels (like grocery bags) I think you would be fine leaving the third row folded up to the side since they don't take up floor space that way. I've only removed the seats for loading large, bulky items.

There is very little room behind the third row when it's down, maybe enough space for 5-6 grocery bags.

We don't sit people in the third row very often, but like having that option when we want/need to.

 

[JenDawn]

Thanks for all your replies ... especially the picture link. That helps a lot.

My husband just talked with our guy at Toyota. I'm really torn. Part of the point in doing this would be to lower our monthly payment, so my husband doesn't want to get the Limited 4-Runner. We were leaning toward the Sport, but found out it doesn't have the option for the 3rd row seat.

It's so hard to consider downgrading when you already have a Limited. The leather seats, heated for that matter, the dual visors, climate control, etc. I could get an SR5 and even upgrade to leather seats, but I have to really think if it's worth it to pay about $60 less per month.

My other option is the Highlander, which I COULD get in the Limited edition. However, it's just not the "cool" kind of car I like to drive. It is very nice, though and I'm seriously considering it.

And yet another option is simply selling my Sequoia privately which opens us up to a whole array of vehicles to choose from. But it's not all nice and tidy and quick as it would be if we just leased another Toyota from our guy that gives us great deals.

What to do? What to do? We may just keep our Sequoia. I'm sure a lot of people would think we're nuts for trading it in. It's beautiful. Just big! My sister has owned a couple of Suburbans (as has my husband) and she is completely thrilled to now be driving her smaller, 3rd Generation 4-Runner.

Thanks for letting me vent!

Jen