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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  Terrific! - 2000 Toyota Tundra
  By iamdot - November 22 - 10:00 am

  It does what you want when you want it to. Have had my truck for almost two years and the only problems Ive had is a little shaking when braking (which the dealer fixed) and some squeaking with my belt. Has the power to peel out when towing a bass boat, charge up hills, and went up some "expert" 4x4 trails which the fixed up truckers didnt think I had a chance (since mine is stock). The TRD helped with the 4x4ing along with overall ride, would highly recommend.

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  need more A/C in Texas - 2001 Toyota Highlander
  By dphipps - November 22 - 10:00 am

  I enjoy the size and comfort of my highlander. BUT the thing I hate, no rear air. I have one child and another on the way not to mention we live in Texas. My child roasts in the back seat because the air isnt hitting her. Would it be that hard to put a vent in the back? I also am bothered by the noise when one window opens, intense pressure on your ears.

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  New Owner - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By W.D. - November 22 - 10:00 am

  First foreign auto but I believe we got the pick of the litter. Had a Sedan Deville for several years and already the Avalon has made us forget about the luxury and performance of the Cadillac. Will want to give another review after subtantial number of miles are driven.

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  Luxury From Toyota - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Daniel Morthole - November 22 - 10:00 am

  The car has a very luxurious interior and the 2003 Avalon is even beter. The 2003 Avalon has a navigation system, mine didnt come, even as an option.

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  Buy it -- youll like it! - 2002 Toyota RAV4
  By RAVingit - November 22 - 10:00 am

  I loved my two Honda Civics -- that is, until I purchased the RAV4. A friend purchased a Lexus RX300 and, after enjoying rides in her luxury SUV, I decided I wanted one of my very own. So I purchased the affordable one - RAV4!! Believe it or not, the RAV4 L package even looks like the RX300 from the outside. I like a small car, so I was looking for a vehicle that drove like a small car but had the convenience of an SUV. The ride, quality and design of the RAV is everything I imagined! It zips in and out of traffic and is extremely fun to drive. The visibility is great -- I cant imagine driving a car again!

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  Many, many miles... many more to go! - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By Tough Tacoma - November 22 - 9:10 am

  I bought this truck in 9/07 with 204000 miles on it from a neighbor who purchased it new in 1997. Exterior has lots of bumps and bruises, paint is pretty shabby. However the interior is very nice and the mechanicals are in excellent shape. I think it will last another 10 years, no problem!

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  First Car - 1994 Toyota Camry
  By ohsookay - November 21 - 5:44 pm

  I bought this car in 2012 after I got my license, and it really is a great car. Purchased the car at 130k, and Im current at 216k. Never had any major problems with it; just the usual standard routine; oil, tires, brakes, struts, and transmission fluid. The only major thing I take in my Camry is for the timing belt, but other than that the car runs amazing. Seats are super comfortable, and compared to most cars nowadays, theres plenty of leg and head room! And a spacious trunk as well. I get about 28/29 ish mpg on highway, and just a little bit less on the street.

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  My 4Runner - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By FredK - November 21 - 1:00 pm

  Recently purchased a 2006 Toyota 4Runner Sport Edition. I love this truck! I definitely suggest the upgraded suspension that comes with Sport Edition and is available with the Limited. The ride is noticeably better.

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  The Best Car Out There!! Period - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By ERazor - November 20 - 10:26 pm

  I buy them used and I replaced my 1995 Avalon with a 2003 Avalon. I will replace this one with another. If it ever wears out that is. They are the best cars that I have ever owned.

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  Love It!!! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Love my 4 runner - November 20 - 7:16 pm

  No regrets about buying this vehicle. Ive had my 4 runner for almost a year now. The more I drive it, the more I love it. It runs, rides, and looks great. Gas mileage has been far better than I had anticipated. Great vehicle overall!