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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  Cool car - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By mdahmus - September 15 - 10:00 am

  A lot of "wow" factor with this car for friends and family; extremely solid; Camry-like except newer-looking and cooler.

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  Toyota is Reliable Despite Quality Issue - 1998 Toyota Camry
  By AlmostTRDCamry - September 15 - 10:00 am

  I have owned this Camry for over 5 years. It has served as the most reliable vehicle despite 3 major defects that you wouldnt expect in a Toyota (verified online). 1)Oxygen Sensor 2)Engine Gel 3)ISC Valve Fortunately, these arent expensive repairs, but persist despite recommended maintenance in the handbook. Despite not being able to start the car reliably, the car will run. Buy again? Not this one, it mustve been the worst generation. If you dont like body roll, upgrade the tires to 16" Kumho Ecstas, this is a major handling upgrade. Major pet peeve, this car rides low and scrapes steep driveways.

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  Best Buy for under 45K! - 2002 Toyota Sequoia
  By S. Rand - September 15 - 10:00 am

  We considered EVERY SUV on the market for 45K or less b4 buying (Tahoe, Envoy, Jeep, Yukon, etc). We took the time to dive/ride in each one b4 deciding. Ultimately Toyota held its value the longest, had the nicest feel (plushy) and reliability, and got us the most bang for our buck. Would recommend to all and would rebuy!

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  Excellent Value - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By RobbM - September 15 - 10:00 am

  The optional Navigation system is a must for anyone who travels and/or likes to have the latest gadget.

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  an underrated car - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By ed_norman - September 15 - 10:00 am

  After comparing every SUV in the same price range, ($35,000-40,000) I choose the 4runner based upon features, quality, and looks, and have not been disappointed. This is one of the best designed cars I have owned; the interior features are great. The handling with the X-reas suspension is also excellent, and will easily exceed the limits that most people feel comfortable with. The ride and handling are excellent for an off-road capable SUV.

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  Nearly all 10s - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By K Lewis - September 15 - 10:00 am

  Our first 4Runner but not our first Toyota. Outstanding features: ergonomically well thought out; very smooth on-pavement characteristics. Ample power with the V6, many of the features found on the higher-priced Lexus GX. A few insignificant issues have caused us to trade the vehicle for a Sequoia. The cabin didnt provide enough head room--with the seat fully lowered, I would brush the headliner with the top of my head. Also, the front windshield had imperfections which were distracting. A small rattle in the sunroof and high- frequency noise from the ventillation system added up to too many dissatisfactions for us to keep the vehicle.

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  Highlander Again! - 2004 Toyota Highlander
  By Pamela Doolittle - September 15 - 10:00 am

  This being my second Highlander, first was the 2001 model. It is such a joy to hop in my car and go. I did not want the third row seat but it has not been an inconvenience, I keep it down and have just as much space as my last Highlander. Driving on the road which I do a lot of is just my cup of tea!

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  2004 XLE Ltd a great van - 2004 Toyota Sienna
  By JTM - September 15 - 10:00 am

  Wasnt crazy about the high price tags on the Sienna but finally decided that it was worth it. The build quality and features on the XLE Ltd couldnt be matched. This is a vehicle we should be able to enjoy for a long time to come. Its fun to drive and the features, comfort, and luxury actually make me proud to own a minivan.

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  ...Even turns the heads of Benz owners - 2004 Toyota Camry
  By ms.sunshine - September 15 - 10:00 am

  So far I am loving this car! Its strong, solid, and fun to drive. I even got a compliment today from someone driving a new Mercedes SL500 today. Now that makes a statement about the fine appearance of this car! Ive driven an E-class before, and the smoothness and handling of this car ranks right up there with it. Just hoping the gas mileage improves as the car breaks in. 17 mpg is tough on the pocket book. If not, Ill still love it.

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  Nice car - 2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid
  By Waleed almekhlafi - September 14 - 11:58 pm

  Its an airplane riding the ground. So dont worry ride and enjoy.