Overview & Reviews

Toyota is a Japanese brand whose refined, well-designed vehicles have earned it a great deal of popularity. Toyotas also have a superb record for reliability and durability, which goes a long way toward justifying their typically high purchase prices. For buyers who plan on owning their new vehicles for a long time, the Toyota marque is a very compelling choice.

The automaker's name is a variation of the surname of its founder, Kiichiro Toyoda. After years of research, Toyoda unveiled his first prototype, the A1, in 1935, marking the birth of the Toyota Motor Corporation. The '40s witnessed the launch of additional passenger cars and even a pickup. By the end of the decade, the automaker had produced more than 100,000 vehicles.

Toyota grew bigger in the '50s and expanded its roster with a slew of new small cars. The company also unveiled the utilitarian BJ truck; this vehicle was the precursor to the Land Cruiser. By the end of the decade, Toyota had commenced exports to the U.S. with the establishment of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc. The first Toyota to be sold on American shores was the Crown; it held the distinction of being the first Japanese car to be sold Stateside.

The '60s witnessed even more growth for the emerging juggernaut. Toyota introduced the Corolla, an immensely popular model that is still in production today. Vehicles like the home-market Publica, the 2000GT, Hiace and Miniace were also launched. The decade closed with Toyota reporting annual domestic sales of 1 million units; cumulative exports also reached 1 million.

Japanese-market cars like the Carina, Light Ace and Publica Starlet were launched during the 1970s. In the States, the Corolla grew in popularity and the Corona and Mk II models debuted as well. The successful Celica sports coupe was also rolled out and would remain in production for more than 30 years. Toyota's shadow had spread far beyond Japan by this point. The decade's oil crisis had made the manufacturer's compact, fuel-efficient models more popular than ever in the United States. By the time the '70s drew to a close, the automaker had exported more than 10 million vehicles.

Toyota expanded its presence in the U.S. market during the '80s, with the introduction of popular models like the 4Runner SUV and the MR2 sports car. The true high point of these years, though, was the birth of the Toyota Camry sedan. Originally known as the Celica Camry in Japan, the car went on to be a hit of phenomenal proportions, earning kudos as America's best-selling car of the year time and time again.

During the '90s, Toyota rolled out the Avalon full-size sedan and expanded its selection of SUVs with the compact RAV4. By the end of the decade, more than 100 million Toyota vehicles had been produced in Japan. The company also proved itself on the cutting edge of new technology with the rollout of the Prius, the world's first mass-produced hybrid. The car debuted in Japan in 1997; by 2001, the fuel-sipping sedan had made its way to American highways. Despite the presence of a growing number of competitors in its segment, the Prius continues to boast class-leading sales.

Toyota's current lineup is relatively extensive, including minivans, cars, trucks and SUVs. The brand remains extremely popular among savvy consumers who place a high value on quality and dependability.

User Reviews:

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  awesome! - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By Katy - April 29 - 6:43 pm

  I previously owned a 98 4runner SR5 4x4, loved it for 3 months then it was in an accident and totalled. Immediately went out of state to bring home a newer model because I loved my 4runner so much! The 1000-mile drive back home was a pleasure, wasnt uncomfortable at all. I wonder why no other car manufacturer has figured out that the auto-roll-down rear window is a winning feature...Im so spoiled by it that its hard to imagine not having one. Havent had to do anything other than routine maintenence so far. Also, sunroof, running boards and roof rack I believe are standard on most SR5s. It also drives absolutely AWESOME on sand, even in the deep soft stuff!!

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  Great Vehicle for most anything - 2005 Toyota RAV4
  By CoGrl - April 29 - 2:43 pm

  I love my Rav 4. Its practical for anything Ive done. I take it on camping trips, rock climbing day trips and cross country. The gas mileage is great for a car that can do so much. I highly reccommend this if you need ample cargo space. The seats are easily removeable, and did I mention my Husky loves it.

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  Ah my Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By BobbyJo - April 29 - 9:43 am

  The most surprising thing to me about my Prius, is the power. The handling would be second, just excellent! Finally, it is such a substantial car for the price category.

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  Great Little Car - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By RKendall48 - April 29 - 6:33 am

  Great little car that is fun to drive & gets great MPG..50+

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  love this truck - 2016 Toyota Tacoma
  By Bermaeri - April 29 - 6:05 am

  You Have to sit in this case before buying it. There are some body types that are going to uncomfortable in the drivers seat.

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  Re-Designed Rav4 - 2013 Toyota RAV4
  By lkalbfleisch - April 29 - 4:54 am

  I just got my new Rav4 yesterday but have completely fallen in love with it. I researched all the small SUVs and decided the Rav4 was the best value. I wish the blind spot monitor was an option for the XLE. Everyone that has seen it has commented on how it looks much more expensive than the $23,600 that we paid for it.

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  Great car to drive - 2009 Toyota Highlander
  By Ken in Vancouver - April 29 - 3:10 am

  This SUV has it all, style, ride, quiet, and most of all comfort. Being a senior and retired this vehicle will get plenty of use. Having owned a Ford Explorer, a GMC Envoy, both being top of the line models, the Highlander is superior. Gas mileage is not a factor in my case, but 19 MPG local is acceptable. This vehicle was a surprise as I intended to purchase a Toyota Venza.

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  Good Bang for The Buck - 2005 Toyota Corolla
  By AMR - April 29 - 1:43 am

  Needing to save $ on gas, this car does it. Excellent wood grain interior, all controls easy to access so you dont take your eyes off the road. I cant wait to see how long I can make this car last.

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  Re-Review Of 08 Prius - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By oldcoach - April 28 - 10:53 pm

  I am writing a re-review because this car is just super.Our Prius is with packages and option #2. Option #2 makes it one great car. We have driven it for a week and have over 300 miles on it and are getting 49.6 MPG, without trying, just driving. The no key system is great. Stereo sounds great. Like the back-up camera (but car is not that hard to see out of) really like the energy useage screen. The Prius is so high tech all on touch screen and also on steering wheel. Very easy to operate, only takes a couple of times driving and you are set. Just wish I could get my wife out of the prius so I can drive it. HaHa

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  Still in love since 2002 - 2002 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Kris Peterson Bogacz - April 28 - 9:56 pm

  I bought this car new and have not had one mechanical problem (except the radio antenna replacement at 100,000 miles) thus far. The car still drives like a new Lexus, such a smooth ride at so many miles. Luxury and comfort--- Im keeping this car as long as it allows me. No problems with convertible top to date. Had to replacement rear seat cupholder one time. Very flimsy.