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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  Sleek and fun - 2004 Toyota Celica
  By littlezucster - September 26 - 10:00 am

  It has a sleek, aerodynamic shape. The action package is a must! The seating is comfortable for front passengers. The interior is attractive in two-tone red/black. The paint seems to chip very easily. I have more chips in this paint in 6 months than I did on my other Celica in 6 years. The hatchback storage space is a great feature. It allows a sporty look, while remaining practical. Fuel economy is a plus. Its slow compared to other sports cars but does have fair pick-up and excellent handling. Overall, I really enjoy my new 2003 Celica.

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  I must like it Im buying my third Prius - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By dwolf1087 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned a 2001 which was in an accident, a 2002 and am now buying a 2004 Prius. The Prius is wonderful. I get 55+ MPG. My driving style suits the Prius. I drive mostly on trips of 20 minutes or more at 35-40 miles per hour with limited traffic stops. Freeway miles are less at 46mpg. I also get less milage in winter, 45-50. On the other hand my record is 64mpg on a tankful (confirmed at pump not just the computer screen which tends to be off by a consistant 2mpg). The Prius will not get the best milage during the first five minutes or so as it warms up, often only 35. Performance is good, comfort levels high.

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  this is the best car made. period. - 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser
  By mikewils - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I have had no problems whatsoever with my landcruiser. It is flawless and remains beautiful, smooth, and powerful.

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  Franks review - 1994 Toyota Camry
  By frankp - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I found this vehicle very reliable and comfortable both on long rides and short excursions, cruise control is very useful on long trips. I found that doing routine maintenance was somewhat difficult due to the lack of manevering room under the hood, but overall a good car.

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  overall: ++Good - 2000 Toyota Celica
  By xxna - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I like me car. It handles well. I appreciate the designer engineering of the instrument panel and its been fun to drive these past 3 years.

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  montana perfect - 1999 Toyota Tacoma
  By hydroguy1 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  this truck is perfect for 1 or 2 people. stiff ride but didnt want a caddy. torquey 2.7L and 25MPG!! interior a little tight for 62", but seats very comfy.

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  My Matrix XRS - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Subman - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I have currently just over 7500 miles on the Matrix and have had reasonable luck with the car. Service on the vehicle has thus far been normal oil/filter changes (every 3,000 miles), tire rotation at 5,000 miles, and 2 warranty repairs. The first was a replacement door on the compartment below the shifter - it would pop open at the slghtest bump - after replacement - it still does it. The second was a check engine light - oxygen sensor and catalytic converter replaced.

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  Love it - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By krock - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I love this car. My girlfriend and I looked at everything from the Jeep Grand Cherokee to the VW jetta TDI and we settled on the matrix because it is the perfect blend of fun, function, and value!

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  Our Matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By T. L. Thompson - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This is the best new car we have ever purchased. It is easy to maintain and drive. The Matrix gets a lot of attention when we are out. Some people mistake it for a sports car. Others think it is a station wagon. We like it.

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  I Love my Matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By LeeAnna Jonas - September 26 - 10:00 am

  What can I say about the New Matrix? Isnt she hot! I love my Matrix. Great sporty looks, dependable, easy driving and about 300 miles to a tank. I needed something that looked good but also had room for my sons Hockey gear. Lots of space in this car. Not only could I put in 3 kids hockey equipment, but also the 3 kids! Very roomy backseat. Plenty of places to put your extras. It took me 5 months before I found 2 of the little compartments next to the dash for storage. A pleasent surprise. Good pick up and a smooth ride on the highway. Also plenty of power in the mountains. I would recomend this car to anyone.