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:

• 

  2003 4Runner after 6 years of ownership - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Steve - December 30 - 1:56 am

  Overall Ive liked the truck. I have close to 100K miles now and have taken good care of it. It still looks like a new truck when I get it all cleaned up which I think is due to the quality of paint and components used. Ive been disappointed by the reliability. Among those things gone wrong are: AC compressor clutch relay, Heated mirrors dont work, Lights in several areas of the dash dont work, Front brake calipers froze up. Had to be replaced Transmission or rear end has a whine that Im afraid is the beginning of a big bill. Would I buy again? Maybe, but I would want to look at other trucks first. The harsh ride of the vehicle tends to make those sitting in the rear get car sick.

• 

  A wonderful step-down from mini-vans - 2009 Toyota Venza
  By retired teacher - December 30 - 1:46 am

  I drove my new Toyota off the dealership in mid-January and have been loving my choice! Great acceleration-smooth driving on interstate-comfort all the way! I personally love the fact that there is no 3rd seat- after 4 mini-vans, I now feel like Im driving a Lexus-for a lot less! It even looks similar to the Lexus-I love the low to the ground entry-exit-my Venza is fully loaded- the only negative is the fuel efficiency-but I love the fact that I have more room than the more fuel efficient Prius. It was worth the wait! I test drove Honda CR_V, Subaru Tribeca and the Nissan Murano.

• 

  FJ Cruiser Review - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By Garry Ray - December 29 - 7:06 pm

  I was skeptical about buying this vehicle at first. But Im sure glad I did. This FJ is so fun to drive both on and off road. Ive had it since June of 06 and I still have a silly grin on every time Im driving it. She gets a lot of looks. The rear visibility took about 2 days to get used to. Its not a vehicle for everyone but then Im glad it isnt.

• 

  Youll Feel Rich When You Drive It - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Kelly Minyard - December 29 - 2:53 pm

  This SUV drives better than any SUV on the market

• 

  Great Car - 1998 Toyota Camry
  By JRad - December 29 - 2:47 pm

  Bought my 98 camry with 130K on it in 2009, I will be trading it in soon to get another car. Ive done a lot of driving in this thing, yearly trips from Delaware to Connecticut, some trips to Boston and Buffalo as well. Weekly commutes to Philly, etc. Currently sitting at 220K miles and this thing could probably last me another 100K if I needed it to. Only repairs it ever needed were basic wear and tear, aside from fuel injectors going out (conveniently) right after the warranty expired. A few minor issues like one of the door speakers going out, and the drivers side window motor breaking. The motor was replaced but now it doesnt always sit in the door right but its okay. Great storage, Ive hauled a full drum kit in this thing so many times and carried my hockey gear in the trunk almost daily. Well worth every penny, I trust Toyota more than any other brand!

• 

  Car of a Lifetime - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Howard - December 29 - 6:56 am

  Power and more! Lots of snap when needed in traffic. Very little road noise and no rattles. Spacious interior with passengers in mind. Best car I have owned in my fifty years of driving.

• 

  I love my 2008 Toyota Highlander! - 2008 Toyota Highlander
  By Diane - December 29 - 5:03 am

  I never thought Id own a vehicle this big as Ive always had smaller cars. However, we needed something that could tow. I knew I wanted a Toyota but didnt like the 4Runner look. Was going to get the RAV4 until I saw the re-designed Highlander. I had to have one - love the look! Not crazy about the black 2-tone interior, but that is a minor thing. Also, wish the Bluetooth capability was standard. Not worth the additional $ in the higher end package. This thing drives excellent! Love the quiet drive especially on the highway. I recommend the 08 Highlander to everyone!!

• 

  Initial Review - 2009 Toyota Corolla
  By Bob W. - December 29 - 1:16 am

  Less than 1000 miles since purchase. So far very happy. First compact ever purchased but was out of necessity (economy). Will report again in 6-9 months. Always had mid size vehicles so this is an adjustment that on first report seems to have been a good move. Anxious to take a long trip to get the real feel of the car and more accurate idea of true gas mileage. Like the reported reputation of Toyota vehicles. See ya in 6-9 months. Ratings given above are based on only having vehicle for one month. Liked the style compared to all considered. Really went to purchase the Corolla LE. However when I saw the S model I quickly made the mental financial adjustment to a much better looking vehicle. My wife wasnt too happy but reluctantly allowed me to go for it!

• 

  Great will keep it 4 ever - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By Shocker88 - December 28 - 9:06 pm

  I purchased my 2001 4Runner sport pkg new and love it. I have put 72000+ miles on it todate. My wife now drives it daily to college. She loves it. Has enough power for her. I love it as well. 4wd system from older Limited versions is great auto 4wd handy for the wife. No problems really to report after 6 yrs of ownership. Did great in snow and ice storms of VA & NC. MPG is okay for SUV, wife gets better then me. Love all the options, would have liked more information gauges like my old 89 Toyota SR5 truck (volt meter, oil pressure).

• 

  Poor Gas Mileage - Less than EPA Rating - 2006 Toyota Tundra
  By Robert - December 28 - 3:43 pm

  My wife and I are both Toyota owners. My wife owns a 2003 Avalon, while I have access to the 4.7L V8 engine 2006 Tundra. I have really been disappointed with actual fuel mileage compared to rated fuel mileage for the Tundra. This issue looms even larger in light of the higher fuel prices over 2005 prices. Actual highway mileage is 14-15 mpg, while the EPA fuel rating is 18-20 mpg for higway driving. Actual city mileage is poor. The Tundras turning radius is also problematic. Typical u-turns from a two way street or highway onto a two way street or hignway are virtually impossible without having to turn and backup.