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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  Corolla S - 2003 Toyota Corolla
  By Sunny - July 29 - 8:26 am

  Nice car, fun to drive, tight handling.

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  Gets the Job Done - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By Day Tripper - July 29 - 7:40 am

  This is a great truck with a lot of get up and go. The Tacoma is well-built and Toyotas trademark mechanical craftsmanship has not disappointed. However, there are two areas that have been below par. The comfort is not the greatest. This isnt the vehicle one wants to travel in for long distances! The other detractor is the emergency brake. I cant even tell the brake is engaged. A couple of times I have forgotten to let it out, I have still been able to roll backward and drive forward without realizing the brake was on. In addition, the brake is ancient in its design - a pull out stick under the ignition. That may have something to do with its effectiveness.

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  Outstanding Vehicle - 2001 Toyota Camry Solara
  By NYABU - July 29 - 7:03 am

  Bought this car new, almost 9 years later it runs and looks as good as it did when new. No major repairs, except for maintenance and the car has never broken down. Particularly comfortable on weekly drives between LA and Vegas. Was rear-ended while sitting at a light by a car traveling 40 miles an hour. The other car was totaled, mine is being fixed and I feel fine. Im glad they could fix, would never get the true value of this vehicle.

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  Im converted - 2007 Toyota Yaris
  By I M AWESOME - July 29 - 1:06 am

  I wanted the Rabbit as I have always had a GTI and couldnt afford the new ones. I mosey into the Toyota dealership and see the Yaris and wasnt convinced at first until I drove it. Its a little slow off the gun, but once you get into the mid-range, she has some go. Its the most fun car Ive driven and its more comfortable than the Mini. I got the convenience package which is good, but plan on getting all the TRD accessories. Gas mileage is great, which was my primary motivation for the car, but I never expected it to be so fun to drive. Got the Blazing Blue and plan on making it look like the commercial. Overall I am very pleased with my purchase and recommend it to anyone.

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  Very reliable, great mileage - 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid
  By jh - July 29 - 12:46 am

  Have both a 2004 Prius and 2007 Camry. The Camry is a big step up in comfort, performance and amenities relative to the Prius, with similar mpg (40 miles versus 46 for Prius). Only wish they made a Camry wagon since the trunk/pass thru is pretty limited. Very reliable but a little dull to drive. Great sound system.

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  Fun passing cars when going uphill! - 2005 Toyota Sienna
  By Colin - July 28 - 10:10 pm

  We have had our Sienna for 5 months and we love it. Comfort and performance are excellent. Adult and kid friendly. Never had a van that can so easily pass cars while heading up the hill to Tahoe.

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  Very Reliable - 2000 Toyota Sienna
  By Most Reliable - July 28 - 1:46 pm

  I have owned this Sienna from day one, and so far w/95000 miles it has lived up to the reputation of Toyota by being the most reliable van I have owned. Have there been problems, sure, but minor: rear brake squeal and sliding power door sensor. Other than routine service, its been a pleasure. Hope to have it another 7 years w/200,000 miles!

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  Simply the Best - 2000 Toyota Camry Solara
  By seeblue - July 27 - 3:50 pm

  Almost 11 years old and Ive only had oil changes, tire replacements, one battery replacement, and a tuneup at 110000 miles. Geez, I have the same muffler! This car is the boss and worth every penny.

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  So Kool! - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Pebbles2006 - July 27 - 4:43 am

  My driving and ownership have been nothing like my driving and ownership of may cars in the past. When Im in my Prius, I feel like Im somewhere in the Future. I know I made the best choice. When passengers ride in it, they cant believe the smooth, comfortable ride and the touch- pad system for temperature and audio control, etc.

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  Most SUV for the money - 2009 Toyota Highlander
  By DCPhill - July 27 - 1:26 am

  Bought to replace 2000 Mercedes ML320. Little bit roomier, more like a station wagon. Cost about same as Mercedes did in 2000. Very comfortable and quiet, handles well. Ergonomics of controls are strange, i.e. GPS/Bluetooth/Radio controls difficult to sort out. So far no regrets.