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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  Lovin It! - 2016 Toyota Corolla
  By Julia Trueblood - July 5 - 10:59 am

  This is my second Corolla in 13 years. You cant go wrong with any Toyota. My 2016 Corolla S Plus is sporty looking and feeling, and rides beautifully. 2 yrs/25,000 miles of free maintenance by Toyota is greatly appreciated.

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  Amazing Truck Right From The Start - 2017 Toyota Tacoma
  By PaulDnCali - July 4 - 11:03 pm

  Most Tacoma owners add aftermarket modifications to their trucks; I will be one of this majority. However, without these modifications, this truck is a comfortable beast right off the lot. It has power, stamina, just enough clearance to get you through many obstacles, and great looks. I do wish however that Toyota would have given more luxurious options (for example: interior with brown leather seats and trim in more than just the Limited model). I am so far very happy with my new Taco and believe I will continue to be happy for many years with it. In the first 1000 miles of driving, Ive already taken this truck through the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California twice with no complaints and I plan on many back road / off road adventures through the years.

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  My 3rd 4Runner - Bullet Proof as Usual - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By John - July 4 - 3:56 am

  Just purchased my first new car ever and my 3rd 4runner (first baby on the way!). I have always been a used car guy, cant stand new vehicles depreciating 10 - 20% the moment you drive it off the lot. But if any SUV holds it value and limits "day one depreciation" its the 4Runner. My first 2 4Runners, an 87 and a 94 with combined mileage of 565K were rock solid and my new 07 holds true. Much better ride and handeling in this new version thanks to an increase in 4 inches in width. The 4WD V6 is plenty powerful for my driving needs and the sport package looks sharp. Averaging 19 MPG - wish could be better. Only complaint is that its my wifes and future childs daily driver and not mine.

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  Rock Solid - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By Atlanta Renegade - July 4 - 1:10 am

  This truck is bulletproof and surprise me everyday. Bought it 2.5 years ago and never missed a beat. Its built by Hino which is Toyotas truck division, very solid and great smooth 4.0l V6 engine. Ultra low maintenance. I use it to tow my boat and also do some offroading. Great vehicle is you like using your vehicle to do adventure outdoor type of stuff and dont want to worry about damaging something on the vehicle. Do yourself a favor and look underneath one and youll find that the truck is way overbuilt and great bang for your buck.I enjoy mine and use it everyday

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  Excellent auto - 2001 Toyota Camry
  By RICHARD BURNS - July 3 - 9:43 pm

  I bought this car used in 2003. The body and interior look brand new, it drives like a new car. I havent done any repairs. I perform the schedule routine maintenance and am thoroughly satisfied with the performance. I see no need to purchase a new car at this time as my Camry is totally reliable.

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  Driving the Best - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Chris Rollins - July 3 - 3:43 pm

  Personally, Id prefer a solar generated vehicle but since that isnt available, I chose the next best environmentally friendly vehicle. I feel good about doing something constructive about preserving the environment.

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  Newbie to the SUV world - 2007 Toyota RAV4
  By Faus - July 3 - 3:23 pm

  Even though it has been a short period of time, but after having owned several sedans and mini-vans in the past few years, and having rented other SUVs ocassionally, I can say I am amazed about this car. It is easy and fun to drive, it has most of the features you would ever want, and it is very safe and stable to handle. Finally, visits to my dealer are also fantastic.

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  Amazing! - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By holdem185 - July 3 - 3:11 am

  I have always wanted a 4runner and I finally got one for Christmas. It drives awesome! Its so smooth and quiet. Gets up and goes taking off from a stop light unlike my old car. Roomy front seats, comfy leather seats. Just an amazing car! Highly recommend.

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  A Nice Transition - 2010 Toyota Camry
  By travelkat - July 2 - 11:50 am

  I bought the Camry SE after driving a 2002 Camaro Z28 for 7 years. I have been very happy with the sport suspension on the SE model (did not like the feel of the LE model at all -- much too soft). But my silver Camry SE with charcoal leather interior is fabulous! It looks great, feels great, and its easy on the wallet. I became interested in Toyota when my husband bought a Tacoma back in the spring. I decided Toyota equals quality! We test-drove the Prius but I felt like I was riding in a tin can. When I drove the Camry SE I fell in love. This is how a car should drive! I dont understand the reviews that say the car is bland or unexciting, maybe they did not get the SE model.

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  No More Fords For Me - 2009 Toyota Tacoma
  By Randy - July 2 - 8:13 am

  After almost buying a 2009 F-150 4.6L, I decided upon the Tacoma. I was leery about the 150s fuel mileage, and checked many Tacoma Forums for their mileage assessments. That being said, I have NO regrets at all. The Tacoma, to me, rides like a car with the benefit of a truck. I owned two Ford Rangers previous to this purchase, and the difference is night and day. Interior is superb and luxurious compared to the Rangers plain design. Seats are more comfortable but the seats are lower, which is the only dislike I have about this vehicle. Id much prefer to sit up a bit higher. I feel a bit like driving a Miata with my legs out rather than in a normal sitting position.