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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  6 mos. Review - 2006 Toyota Camry Solara
  By randy - May 17 - 12:13 am

  After driving my new convertible for 6 months I am thrilled to report complete satisfaction with all aspects of the car. Low wind buffeting, dry interior during car washes and heavy rains, great stereo system. The mileage has leveled off to 27 MGP around town and the seats are so comfortable I can drive all day and all night only to stop for a fill up every 500 miles or so. I wish the exterior styling was sexier, and Im quite happy that the car is not a hotrod as the professional reviewers have all lamented. Bottom Line: After only 6 months and 12,000 miles Im looking forward to the new spring/summer/fall driving season where I expect Ill put on another 18,000 miles, or more.

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  Great, if unexciting, car - 2009 Toyota Camry
  By Stuart - May 16 - 9:56 pm

  Lets be honest about things. If you want a car thats that fast, offers a sporty ride and sporty handling - the Camry is not for you. I can tell you that this is the most stress-free car I have ever owned. It goes where I need it go without a complaint, is not a gas hog, and while not overly powerful - can hold its own on the highway. There has been lots of carping about the interior materials but I think theyre ok and certainly better than the previous Mazda and Pontiac I owned. For an entry-level midsized car, I dont expect wood grain and leather. Anybody looking for reliable transportation for the long- term - this is the car for them.

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  Best truck I have ever owned - 2007 Toyota Tundra
  By Chas - May 16 - 9:40 pm

  I was in the market to buy another Dodge when I went to a local show and sat in a new Tundra. The rest is history. I bought it on a whim and Im glad that I did. I have the offroad package. The ride is stiff, but not what Id call uncomfortable. Its a truck!! I was pleasantly surprised after driving in the mountains that I had gotten excellent gas mileage. The engine is the nicest running I have ever had.

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  I love my Toyota Sienna - 2005 Toyota Sienna
  By millie - May 16 - 5:43 pm

  I replaced my 1991 Previa (Toyota) which had 214000 miles with the 2005 Sienna XLE Limited AWD which has the navigation system. This is a must. It can get you to and from anywhere. I have been able to navigate in, out and around Washington DC, Philadelphia, etc., not knowing where I was going. It paid for itself within 4 weeks of having the van. It has a wonderful drive.

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  Great utility and fast! - 2007 Toyota RAV4
  By Dave - May 15 - 9:40 am

  I have had my Rav for about 2 months now. I purchased Sport V6- great handeling and one of the fastest vehicles toyota now makes. There is very little wind noise on the highway at any speed. The driving position is comfortable although the seats are on the firm side. Lots of interior storage and the rear door opens to a nice flat floor. The floor storage is great for smaller items although you would be surprised how much can be fit in there. My mpg is averaging 20 city and 26 hiway- excellent for 269 hp! The added weight of the V6 up front really helps with snow/ice traction also.

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  1 year- 40mpg - 2010 Toyota Camry Hybrid
  By atomicalex7 - May 15 - 2:26 am

  I have had this car for about one year now. I previously had a buick century, but before that I had a 1993 camry with 190,000 miles. This car drives just like the 93. I have 20,000 miles on the TCH and I love it. It has lots of power and room. The only thing I dont like is when you put your hand on the driverside handle to unlock it, only the driver door unlocks. Also, I can drive up to 42mph on electric only. At 85mph, it doesnt sound like the car is on or moving. I love it and will get anotherone when this one goes.

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  Reliable, Light-Weight, Easily Tuned - 2001 Toyota Celica
  By ChrisDG - May 15 - 1:56 am

  Extremely reliable. In 7 years, Ive changed the battery once, and at 141,000 kms, the front brakes finally needed service. Back brakes they tell me have half the original material. I wanted a firmer suspension and a bit more hp, so I gave it a light tuning: AEM cold air intake, TRD cat-back system, shocks, lowering springs, and sway bars. The car ride extremely firm, but: a) never bottoms-out; b) its much safer with a terrific grip (Toyota claims 0.90 with my set up) and lane change capability (+5 mi/h). Ive no use for a back seat except to reduce insurance costs and carry my laptop. At 61", I can lie flat in the front. Ive also carried a 78" x 30" sheet of acrylic in the back.

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  Best Car Ive Ever Owned - 2002 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Ladylilu - May 14 - 8:06 pm

  I bought my car new and wouldve kept it until the wheels fell off, but a Dodge turned left in front of me and killed the car. But WOW, I cant believe how well my Solara did in the accident! She protected me well. I had the car for almost 6.5 years, 144,000 miles. Maintenance: Oil changes, battery and tires, brakes, tensioner, belts, catalytic converter (at ~135K), regular factory maintenance. Car was amazing. I miss it! I would trust the car to get me anywhere. 27mpg city (always), 30-32mpg highway (depending on if I was driving or my husband) :o). Buy one if you can!

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  What a great car! - 2008 Toyota Yaris
  By HappyYarisOwner - May 14 - 1:16 pm

  I have to say I was a tad hesitant to buy such a small vehicle, but after having it for a week, I can honestly say it does not feel small at all, either in terms of interior comfort, or the way that it handles and feels on the road. I normally drive cars with manual trans., so switching to an auto had me a little concerned, but in test driving them, I found that the auto seemed a little quieter on the highway. I do not regret the switch to auto at all, in spite of my reservations. The car feels just quick enough to get it where it needs to go (passing, climbing hills etc), and offers great fuel economy. I have filled the tank 3 times, and have averaged about 36mpg 50/50 city/hwy.

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  Awesome Truck - 2002 Toyota Tundra
  By George - May 14 - 10:06 am

  I drive 100 miles a day to and from work. Not one problem. I love this truck and see it going 200000 easy. Great power, comfort. I raised the front 1.5 inches to level the truck out, added Mickey Thompson wheels, Indy Firehawk tires and a hard tonneau and I have a clean, dependable ride. I have and will reccommend this truck to any and all that will listen. Buy one. The new 4 doors have room mine doesnt. BUY ONE