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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  The Excellence of Toyota - 2001 Toyota Corolla
  By Deb Smith - November 24 - 2:00 am

  I recently purchased my first Toyota Corolla LE: What a sweetheart she is! I could not have asked for a better car at ANY price. She handles beautifully, starts when most other cars will not (the cold weather), corners like a dream, and looks like a "doll." I am very pleased to give my "Philly" a high mark of excellence in auto manufacturing. I would, indeed, buy another Toyota Corolla in a heartbeat!

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  Perfect For Dad and Mom - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Matrix Lover - November 24 - 2:00 am

  This car rocks!!! I purchased it about 6 months ago and I could not be happier. It is a well balanced vehicle and has both performance and practicality.

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  practical choice - 2002 Toyota RAV4
  By hilberto - November 24 - 2:00 am

  As with my 2 forer Toyotas, Camry an 4runner it is relia ble and has thiooughtful amenities. I need a vehicle with good traction for my work, and with fuel economy. The ride is better than my 94 4runner, and is affordable

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  AWESOME! - 2003 Toyota RAV4
  By Johnny B - November 24 - 2:00 am

  I love my RAV4-L! The way it handles and the quiet ride are a great selling point. I love the 4WD, fog lights, and the design inside and out. Everyone at work has complimented it and my family and friends love it too. This is my second Toyota and I know its going to be as great as my first Toyota.

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  Wow !! This thing continues to amaze - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By Sequoia Eric in OR - November 24 - 2:00 am

  We at all the SportUtes and bought the Sequoia. Recently sold a Chev product & had nothing but troubles with the build quality, ride & mechs. Wanted another but were wary. The Ford products were about the same. We like the features, reputation & build quality. No leather & sunroof. We did get the alloy package & the dual climate control. The dealer dealings were a breeze, no trade-in, had our own loan lined up and "stole" in for about $3,800.00 under list. At the time dealers were getting $1000 + mark up over sticker. Weve had it 14 months & even with higher gas prices we still love the vehicle. No problems. Its a Toyota...

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  Great SUV - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By valley - November 24 - 2:00 am

  I was going to buy the 2002 4Runner when the huge discounts started last September. Boy, Am I glad I waited and bought the 2003. Not only does it outperform, but so far has lived up to everything as advertised and the dealer matched my price of $800 over invoice. I have already had the pleasure of taking it through the Snow Packed Sierras during the Xmas holiday. Since then, I have racked up 5500 miles in 6 weeks between the mountains and coast. I didnt think I would like the dual cargo system, but for the Californian who skis and golfs, it is perfect. Finally, as a former GM Truck owner the interior controls are more user friendly and of better quality.

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  Toyota Highlander - 2002 Toyota Highlander
  By Leslie Vieau - November 24 - 2:00 am

  Vehicle has performed perfectly in all weather and including in deep mud. Skid control is excellent on wet surfaces. Power is good. Very quiet.

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  Great Car (I mean truck) : ) - 2003 Toyota Highlander
  By Presto - November 24 - 2:00 am

  The Highlander is a great car. With the utility of an SUV, and the ride of a car it meets my every need for all 362 days of the year that Im not camping. I love this SUV!!! Good acceleration, nice ride. I have the Limited 4x4 v6. I love it!

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  Great SUV - 2003 Toyota Highlander
  By bedeaton - November 24 - 2:00 am

  We bought the Highlander for my wife and she loves it! It has great visability and all options. It is a very comfortable ride with plenty of power with great fuel economy. I would highly recommend this for anyone who needs a little extra room and does not need an off road vehicle.

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  Out the door under 20K - 2003 Toyota Camry
  By joel345 - November 24 - 2:00 am

  I wanted a nice car under 20K and I found it. The 2003 Camry LE. I upgraded to the ABS Brakes and side/curtain airbags. Total price was $19300 at Roseville Toyota. Nice ride, quiet 4 Cylinder Engine. Very comfortable seats with great leg and headroom. Muffler hangs low under the car, you really notice this when you follow a camry. Ugly ... My only real complaint about the car is that it seems to vibrate a little when you are stopped at a light and the transmission is in drive. Put it in park and it is fine. Dont know if this is a common thing with the 4 banger.