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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  Brand New Yaris - First Impressions - 2007 Toyota Yaris
  By OKJoe - July 4 - 8:13 am

  We picked up our Yaris under a week ago so this is definitely a first impression, but Ill keep you updated. Although very small there is generous room inside and a surprising amount of rear leg room. Several people sat in the drivers seat and one 62 would have a difficult time driving the car. The center mounted speedometer took all of 10 minutes to adjust to. We put 240 miles on a trip this weekend, very little highway, and used half a tank of gas. Based on the tank size it calculates out to 42.2 MPG. Probably 40 mpg is more reasonable. Exterior is black metalflake - very nice paint. I would recommend this car to anyone!

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  tacomatastic - 2016 Toyota Tacoma
  By jeffrey EATON - July 4 - 1:17 am

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  Really nice ride - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By lagonzal - July 2 - 11:16 pm

  We traded in an 05 Ford Supercrew for the 4Runner. The F150 was simply too long to park in our side entry garage. The 4Runner is sized just right and is easier to maneuver and park. Excellent inside and out. The interior looks and feels expensive, way superior to our old Ford. It gets better mileage than the F150 but has less interior room. Its not the best family vehicle but it will have to do for now.

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  Gem of a Car - 2002 Toyota Echo
  By solid citizen - July 2 - 10:00 am

  I bought my 2002 ECHO brand new back in 2002. Over 6+ years later, shes still a winner. Not many vehicles can boast that after 5 years they are problem- free, reliable, economical and stylish. I am SO glad I decided on getting an ECHO. Still cute as ever. This car is a gem. Something ECHO owners know very well. Best car ever made, without a doubt.

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  Moving up to the Tundra - 2006 Toyota Tundra
  By Mr. Josh - July 2 - 6:43 am

  I recently traded in my T100. The new Tundra helps me cope ;) This truck rides smooth; plenty of room for me and the family. For those wanting MORE towing, look for the 2007 Tundra with a 5.7L. For those wanting MPG, this truck does great. My T100 was getting 17/20, my Tundra gets 16/19. Not a bad trade for a lot more truck.

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  Luv My Tundra - 2005 Toyota Tundra
  By The Duke - July 2 - 5:53 am

  I bought my 05 Tundra about two weeks ago, and I am still in love. This car is the Lexus LS 430 of Trucks. The truck rides smoothly, has all the punch when I need it, and has a good size bed and room for passengers and kids. The TRD package is a great suspension to have for Los Angeles, as there are plenty of rough roads even in the city.

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  Episcopal Priest says Yea to Toyata Pri - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By The Revd Mark KJ Ro - July 1 - 4:36 pm

  Steady in snow ice, wind and rain. Traded in SUV and although it was difficult at first not being so high. I have learned how to drive it with a focus on economy. It drives very well and I have three others in my congragation... and three more about to be ordered!

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  Back to Toyota - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Lisco - July 1 - 12:56 pm

  I have owned and driven trucks of all makes, mid-size and full size. My wife will drive nothing but Toyota cars. My most recent truck was a new design mid-size domestic model and I was very disappointed, most notably the fuel economy. I did not want another full size truck because I use one for everyday use and not for work. The new double cab Tacoma long bed suits my needs. I have owned it for one month and driven over 3,200 miles on the open road, hilly back roads, and city, and did so at 22 mpg for the month. It is good to be back in a Toyota.

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  Gas fillup - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Quinton Qualls - July 1 - 8:56 am

  Since purchasing this car we have had difficulty filling the gas tank. It continually cuts off and just keeps clicking off before we can complete filling the tank. Finally the tank was replaced but we still have the problem. What is the problem. Never had this problem with any other car.

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  Love this SUV! - 2005 Toyota Sequoia
  By Jill - July 1 - 7:40 am

  Make sure the recalls have been fixed.