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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  Great car - 2016 Toyota Camry
  By Enrique - November 6 - 11:40 pm

  Worth the price, the only issue im having is the mpg, im getting an average of 21 mpg

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  2009 TOYOTA VENZA BLIZZARD WHITE - 2009 Toyota Venza
  By VERONICA SACRAMENTO - November 6 - 5:03 pm

  Purchased the new Venza August 2009 after months of research. Previously had a Nissan Van and was looking for a vehicle that would sit up as high but not have the van look. I compared several crossover vehicles and found the new Venza to be the best value. This is a great car inside and out. I compared this to the Acura MDX and Lexus and found I get the same luxury items and reliability for a lot less. During the first month I was surprised how many people commented on how nice my car was and wanted to know what it was, not something I was use to driving a van for over 15 years. I am spoiled with this car it is the perfect size and has great leg room in the back and lots of trunk space.

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  Nice Truck! - 2008 Toyota Tacoma
  By Paul - November 6 - 2:06 pm

  This is my second Toyota Truck, but have owned several Toyotas (I was a Toyota Master Tech years ago). I bought with the SR5 package (which is a MUST), aluminum wheels, and a factory hitch. If you want to buy the stripped version, drive the SR5 first, trust me. I installed a factory Toyota RS alarm also. This truck is the perfect size. My 1990 was a little small, but this one is perfect.

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  2014 Toyota Tundra Double Cab SR5 4.6L - 2014 Toyota Tundra
  By bigdave5 - November 6 - 5:45 am

  This truck is my third Tundra (2003, 2007, & 2014). It is by far the BEST model Tundra thus far. The upgrades to the new model refresh are long overdue. The new Entune system is a welcome addition. It makes it feel like a 21st century vehicle. This time around, Ford and Chevy were strong contenders (sorry, I will never be a Chrysler/Dodge customer). However, the big difference is long-term reliability AND trade-in value. The overall performance, style, and mechanical prowess for the price is unbeatable.

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  Sweet Truck! - 2008 Toyota Tacoma
  By Hugh - November 6 - 5:03 am

  I moved up from my 03 Tacoma 2.4L engine for this one. This truck has all the "bells and whistles" my old truck lacked and I love it so far. Powerful V6 engine, tighter turning radius than my smaller 03 Taco had, smooth shifting automatic. Its very comfortable for me to drive although there seems to be a good amount of wind noise at freeway speeds. Around town its quiet and seems to be rock solid so far. Keep in mind, I only have about 175 miles so far, but at this point Im very happy with the truck.

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  Loyal Toyota Owner - 2000 Toyota Camry
  By Linda - November 5 - 4:56 pm

  My Toyota Camry has required absolutely no repairs, other than regular maintenance, until now at nearly 170,000. How many other car manufacturers can boast that type of reliability. The transmission finally went out. I replaced it with a wrecked models low mileage transmission and shes running like new again. Engine light has been on for nearly 6 years now without any problems. Looking forward to driving her until she reaches 300,000 miles. Then Ill be buying another Toyota Camry!

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  Made it to 300,000 miles! - 1994 Toyota 4Runner
  By stnrphilip - November 5 - 4:52 pm

  I recently parted with a trusty "Yoda" toyota sr5 v6 3.0L that got me everywhere and back in style and comfort. Had the wonderfully over-built transfer case and the tank of a 5 speed manual transmission. I averaged about 22 mpg and was over joyed at the fact these things were made to do it all!. cant tell ya how many times i pulled ford, dodge, and chevy pickups out of 3 foot snow drifts with no problems. I would suggest the 1995 and older versions as they were built the heaviest. Would get another 1994 one without thinking :) Only reason i got rid of it was cause i decided it was time to trade and i picked up a Chevy 1500 in its place.

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  Great Vehicle - 2005 Toyota Highlander
  By Louisse - November 5 - 11:10 am

  The Highlander is a great vehicle to own. The luxury model has great features like heated leather seats and the 3rd row seating folds down to give extra cargo space which really comes in handy. The overall comfort of the vehicle is great whether you are short or tall, more headroom than Jeep. Wouldnt trade this reliable, fun vehicle for a BMW, Lexus, or any of the other "Luxury" models.

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  Economical Fun to drive - 2006 Toyota Corolla
  By Jason - November 5 - 5:43 am

  Great car for the money, bought as a commuter car. Joy to drive. More room than I thought it would have. Large trunk. Nice lay out. Really good handling. Good build quality. Nice fit and finish. Over all good quality for the price.

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  Best Value for your money - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Darryl Wheeler - November 5 - 2:00 am

  Good value and ride. Dealer played typical games of bate and switch made process a bit flustrating.