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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  While the Sun Shines - 2006 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Stone - September 24 - 5:50 am

  This vehicle has the typically great Toyota quality. The mileage is impressive, 26 MPG around town and 32 MPG on the Thruway. The "Absolutely Red" color is terrific.

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  A truly great SUV - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By Runner - September 24 - 2:00 am

  This is a great truck for the money.

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  Great SUV - 2001 Toyota Sequoia
  By John D - September 24 - 2:00 am

  Have had vehicle for 3 years and love it! Typical Toyota quality. Fantastic in 4WD, great on and off road stability. Tires last about 25,000. VSC an annoyance when taking a corner!

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  the toyota matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By trekker - September 24 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. It is fun to drive and it has great performance. At todays gas prices it fuel economy is greatly appreciated. I like the way the seats fold down to allow room to carry all sorts of things.

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  Our Space Shuttle - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By levertz - September 24 - 2:00 am

  We got one with all the bells and whistles. It is by far one of the best vehicles Ive ever driven. The ride is smooth and quiet. It has tremendous pick up when you need it. Toyota has added features that are usually only found in higher priced luxury vehicles...dual interior ceiling lights, door lights, assist handles above all four doors. Standard tie down on floor of hatchback. Sporty steering wheel.

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  2001 Toyota Rav4 Review - 2001 Toyota RAV4
  By etodd4 - September 24 - 2:00 am

  The car is great to drive. It handles exceptionally and is actually quite high off the ground.

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  4 Great Years - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By ownerofavalon - September 24 - 2:00 am

  This has been a great car. Weve extended the lease to wait for the 2005 Avalon which is scheduled for spring. Never needed a repair after 60,000 miles (other than tires). Love the room and the ride. Plenty of power. Good gas mileage with regular gas.

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  Love It!! - 2000 Toyota Camry
  By Healthlady - September 24 - 2:00 am

  This is my first Toyota, but wont be my last. I truly love my Camry. It was a hard choice between the Camry and the Accord, but I am glad that I chose the Camry. I am glad that I purchased a vechile with all the options, because I use them all!!

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  Wish I had bought one sooner - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By newtotoyota - September 24 - 2:00 am

  As a former chevy driver I can say that I am sorry I did not buy my 4runner sooner! The V6 is more than adequate if you are driving in town. It is surprisingly powerful! The exterior is more stylish than the older models and the interior is roomy. Although I do not have a third row seat I think it would be a tight fit for anyone other than kids.

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  First SUV, Love It and Having Fun!!!! - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By lccbrooks - September 24 - 2:00 am

  I love my SUV. At first it kept jumping 4 a lack of a better word. Whenever I pressed the gas, especially going around corners, my SUV jumped into gear late. Make sure B 4 buying, U R sure U want 2 spend money 4 gas, maintenance and insurance. Short/Petite ladies U will get a workout from the trunk door. It is very heavy. However, on the positive side, my husband said that was good because I wont have 2 worry about it falling down on me. The driver window/door controls are a little award 2 get 2, but will get use 2 the location. If U have long arms, it may not bother U. Overall a wonderful choice.