2007 L.A. Auto Show Environmental Activist Disrupts Unveiling of Beefier 2008 Toyota Sequoia

LOS ANGELES — The 2008 Toyota Sequoia's debut at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show was marred by a belligerent encounter between a Toyota executive and an environmental activist posing as another industry official on Wednesday.

The Chicago Tribune reported that the activist, who was not named, is a member of the San Francisco-based Rainforest Action Network. He asked Bob Carter, Toyota Motor Sales USA vice president and general manager, why Toyota is suing California over carbon-dioxide emissions regulations.

Police escorted the man outside the convention center, where he chewed his credential in his mouth before handing it over. The company is not expected to press charges.

In the meantime, Toyota showed off a second-generation Sequoia with a new body, new interior, new chassis and a new optional 5.7-liter V8 with a six-speed automatic transmission. The new engine churns out 381 horsepower, which Toyota notes is "one of the highest outputs in this vehicle class." The carryover 4.7-liter V8 is still standard on the big SUV.

The EPA says the 2008 Sequoia equipped with the 5.7-liter V8 returns 13 mpg in city driving and 18 mpg on the highway. In comparison, the 4.7-liter V8 returns 13 mpg in city driving and 16 mpg on the highway.The new Sequoia is bigger than the previous model, with increases in overall length, width and height.

What this means to you: The Sequoia has been beefed up nicely. Now someone needs to do likewise for security at auto shows. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent

© Source:edmunds
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