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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  Would Buy Again - 2008 Toyota Sienna
  By Two Time Owner - January 25 - 5:46 am

  Our first van was totaled with no injury to occupant. We haul grandkids all over and love the Sienna. The automatic sliding door malfunctioned after vehicle was out of warranty - replacement part too expensive - disappointed about that. However, overall it is a great van.

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  Worth every Penny - 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Hybridgirl - January 25 - 3:20 am

  I truly love driving this vehicle. I have the acceleration needed combined with awesome gas mileage. I am averaging 27-28 mpg mainly highway miles. It is very spacious except for the 3rd row seat. It handles fairly well especially for a SUV.

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  right for me - 2011 Toyota Tacoma
  By dstretch - January 24 - 11:40 pm

  Bought my 2011 sr5 about a month ago. Did lots of previous research prior to buying it, fuel, reliability, pricing, etc. Month later, cant say enough of the Tacoma. Great mid size truck that stands up to all others with good gas mpg. Would highly recommend the Tacoma if your looking for a dependable mid size truck that delivers good fuel and pulling power for weekenders.

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  Very Nice Car - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Very Nice Car - January 24 - 2:00 pm

  I have owned this car for two months and have put 5000 miles on it. I have been on a 3000 mile trip and the performance of the car was great. On that trip I used 47 gallons of gas which gave me 63.8 miles per gallon. You cant ask for anything better. I really like driving the car because it is different than what I was use to driving. In all honesty if you are looking for a nice car with good performance, a nice ride, and outstanding gas mileage this is the one you are looking for. I down graded the exterior design due to the spoiler blocking your rear view vision. I thank they need to re-design the rear view window for better visibility and safety. All in all it is a great vehicle to own.

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  Toyota hits it out of the park..... - 2009 Toyota Venza
  By Flamesfan - January 24 - 10:46 am

  Toyota doesnt bring out many new vehicles but when it does its time to pay attention. First impressions were great and when I bought the venza I was not disappointed. Its got the styling, drives like a car but is practical like an suv. The venza has a ton of neat features-power rear door, back up camera, storage compartment and accessory holders... The list goes on. My one concern was the blindspots but it has not been an issue. The awd is great in the snow too, no need to throw on winter tires every year. This vehicle fits all my needs and with Toyota reliabilty and strong resale value I look forward to years of enjoymeat.

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  Sequoia #1 - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Claudia - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I love my vehicle. It is my dream car.

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  Love of My Sequoia - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Kendall - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I love everything about this SUV

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  Sequoia - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Jackie Smith - January 24 - 10:00 am

  We love this SUV its fun to drive looks great and has lots of room. We were going to go for the Landcruiser but for the price differance we thought the Sequoia was a better choice, and just as good as far as quality.

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  Second Sequoia - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By jackiesmom - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I originally had the 2002 SR5. In September 2002, my family and I were in an accident which totalled the Sequoia and the 2 other vehicles that were involved and also took out the utility power box at the intersection. We all walked away with the only injury being with my dog and a broken nose on my 10 year old son. After that I could only purchase another Toyota Sequoia because I really feel the quality of the frame and body of the truck saved our lives.

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  all around excellent suv - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By diesel - January 24 - 10:00 am

  This suv is just all around reliable.The fuel mileage is hanging aroung 17.6 which is very good for the size and weight of the vehicle with very good power for a toyota. It does not remind me of the earilier toyotas with the 4 and 6 cylinders, this ones got some power. It is also a very quiet ride, When running you cant even tell the engine is running !!! I highly recomend It !!