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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  Great Car - 2001 Toyota Corolla
  By Joe Someguy - July 8 - 3:36 am

  My dad got a five year lease on a Corolla CE in 2001 and it was an amazing vehicle. He just changed the oil twice and the tires and it never gave him any problems. Its a very reliable car.

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  Good second vehicle - 2003 Toyota RAV4
  By rav4brian - July 8 - 2:27 am

  I gave my son my 03 Corolla S to us for college, so I went out car shopping and after test driving the Rav4 is was hooked, it had a very comfortable drive, I knew I was driving a Toyota, . last winter here in Missouri we had several big snowstorms and blizzards roll through the area, my AWD Rav4 didnt have any difficulty getting around in the deep snow, the corolla would have never made it out of the drive way

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  Pleased so far - 2004 Toyota Highlander
  By Owner in Austin - July 7 - 5:50 pm

  We purchased our 04 Highlander new in Nov 04 after extensive research and dealing. 5000 miles later were pleased with our decision. In addition to day to day commuting we have used it for several long trips, including one with the vehicle packed completely full of furniture. It is comfortable and stable to drive, and has performed competently under a wide range of driving and load conditions. Very versatile and capable.

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  Happy - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By Kevin - July 7 - 4:40 pm

  The vehicle was well thought-out and smartly designed. The rear window that slides up and down is great for alittle ventilation when desired. The lift gate closes automatically when shut slightly. The vehicle is smooth riding and very quiet. Gas milage is good, but oddly decreases with lower outside temperature and ran best when 70 degrees-F or more. The location of the drivers window/lock controls could be mounted alittle better. Cruise, tilt, and mileage center are nice.

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  Not Too Shabby - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Stillc - July 7 - 4:06 am

  I commute 100 miles a day so my motivation was economy. Theres no doubt the Prius delivers great mileage. I average 48 MPG or better. I traded-in a F-250 Diesel Pick Up truck for this car and was lucky to do so just prior to the big fuel crisis. The Prius saved me about $500.00 per month in fuel cost based on what I was paying for diesel. Im not crazy about the style (looks like a bug) but it has plenty of head room and can carry more than expected in the hatch back with the seats folded down. Power is so so. Very slow to start off but will kick in and move fairly quickly once your rolling. Its all about fuel efficiency. I have to admit though, it can be a little emasculating.

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  Nice car - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By William - July 7 - 12:21 am

  Fun to drive. Have very problems

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  Reliability - 2000 Toyota Camry Solara
  By bruno libratore - July 6 - 11:40 pm

  This has been the most hassle free vehicle I have ever purchased. All I have done is change the oil and 3 sets of tires. No other maintenance except coolant every 50k miles. If you can buy one, get it.

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  Great mileage so far..... - 2010 Toyota Corolla
  By rangerman7 - July 6 - 10:54 pm

  OK. I am the biggest conservative driver that I know. I really keep the rpms down. I have been watching the computer and average miles per gallon. My general rural commute and riding around town so far I have averaged......... 37-38 mpgs!!!!!! I said "aw shucks" when I saw the new Elantra come out with its 40 mpgs, but with the lifetime drivetrain warranty and 0% financing on my Corolla I still think I made right decision.

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  Best little car on the road - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Shannon - July 6 - 8:50 pm

  Great car ! Fun to drive. It has saved us a ton with gas prices so high. I would highly recommend this car to everyone. Especially, if you live were there are hills and mountains. Gas mileage is amazing. You cant go wrong with this car! Toyota has out done themselves.

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  Very Happy - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Ohio Driver - July 6 - 8:00 pm

  I have owned my 08 Highlander Hybrid for just 5 days but I am very happy. I am a discerning consumer and I researched and thought about thiw vehicle for 5 months before purchasing. I have owned Toyotas for 23 years and this is the best out of the gate. It is actually smoother and quieter than I expected and rivals my Avalon - BUT the pick-up power is till great!