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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  Possibly Perfect - 2008 Toyota RAV4
  By fd3sired - April 23 - 5:33 pm

  After testing other brands as well as the base and Sport model RAV4s, decided on the Limited. Much quieter, more comfortable ride (its based on a car platform, not truck) and better interior materials than the base. The two extra hidden storage behind the rear seats are awesome as well as the three 12v outlets and iPod jack. Seats are super comfortable. The 4WD handles off-road duties superbly. Everything on this vehicle is laid out well with emphasis on order and functionality. Purchased rain guards, mud flaps, bug deflector, and better crossbars for my kayaks to make it perfect. I purchased this car used and it now has 48,000 miles. Every tank has been 24-26mpg with mixed driving.

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  Last of the 07s - 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Thundarr - April 23 - 3:40 pm

  I had a hard time finding a Limited Edition AWD and had to settle for a FWD and put in my own Nav system. I am very pleasantly surprised with the vehicle and how fun it is to drive. The side mirrors give great visibility and I put a rear camera on the Pioneer Nav system I bought to cover directly behind the vehicle for backing up and parking. I looked around for a hybrid for my family and this is the best of the 07s. The 08s looked nicer but I didnt think I could get it in my garage and the hybrid wasnt going to be out till October and I wanted to catch the last $650 in tax credits which expire end of Sept for Toyota. Very pleased.

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  Best Value Among Its Competetiors - 2009 Toyota Yaris
  By Austin - April 23 - 2:43 pm

  After my research & comparison on Toyota Yaris & Honda fit, I decided to get Yaris because it wins in most category & fit my needs for daily use. For two fill-ups, I got 41 MPG ( 40% city/ 60% highway) by driving it gently. Its amazing & almost as good as a Prius. The finish is excellent & the dashboard & charcoal fabric are nicer than others. The ride is smooth & relatively quiet. It accommodates 4 adults comfortably. The power & acceleration is outstanding for this small 1.5L engine. There is nothing to dislike.The only thing I dont like is that the power door lock/keyless entry is not standard.

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  High Reliablity - 1992 Toyota Camry
  By joseagull - April 23 - 10:00 am

  Will be topping 275k miles this month. Still rides smooth and soft and a comfy. struts is an issue. scared to buy anything else since I am so used to the reliability factor and good ride. no major issues except for regular maintenance.

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  Best in class - 2004 Toyota RAV4
  By Hasan - April 23 - 10:00 am

  The higher displacement 2.4L (vs 2.0L) engine makes a huge difference in performance. For around $25K you get a great many amenities, AWD, all the safety features, and impressive performance, without sacrificing affordability - Im averaging 27 mpg. I love the 8 spkr sound system, heated leather seats (will come in handy in the winter)...the refreshed looks are lovely, as are the new alloys. Thank you Toyota for the 4 wheel discs this year. This car has it all, without straining your wallet. And its so damn reliable. Good job Toyota!

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  Finally - 2004 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Matt Welborn - April 23 - 10:00 am

  I finally bought a new car, and wow. I love this car. I have been told that Toyota made a mistake and should have put this car in the Lexus lineup. I must say I agree.

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  Superb - 2004 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Cyrenic - April 23 - 10:00 am

  I was also deciding between the g35 coupe and the new maxima, but for the price you cant beat this car. I bought the SE Sport in black and the car is drop dead gorgeous inside and out. I couldnt be happier with my decision. Perfect blend of class and sportiness.

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  My First New Car - 2004 Toyota Corolla
  By R. Taylor - April 23 - 10:00 am

  I was nervous about getting a new car but I knew that Toyotas were great cars. This car is beautiful inside and out. I love the look and the feel of the drive - and the GAS Milage is EXCELLENT. I love having a CD Player standard in the car. Its hip and fun to drive. Would Recommend to anyone looking for a First New Car.

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  King of the truck world - 2007 Toyota Tundra
  By PaulNOhio - April 23 - 5:53 am

  I have owned many trucks over the years and nothing compares to my 07 Tundra. If you dont believe the hype, go for a test drive and then you will understand. No other truck on the road can compare to the power, refinement, quality, and capabilities of the new Tundra. The big 3 are going to have to step up their game BIG time if they want to compete with the Tundra. I have had my truck for over a month and it is rattle free and very tight. Its a blast to drive and I cant wait for the next opportunity to drive it. Anyone thinking about buying a full-size truck, look no further. Trust me, you wont be disappointed!

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  My Toyota Delight - 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Richard Rousselle - April 23 - 2:10 am

  We have enjoyed our Highlander Hybrid immensely. We appreciate the better mileage than the regular Highlanders which we have had in the past. It has all the creature comforts of the Camry plus the Navigation system. It is very responsive to the foot when accelerating and will really get out and go in passing situations. The seating is comfortable and will seat 7 when taking out the expanded family. It is a good road car which lets you sit back, relax, and take in the scenery.