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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  Computer problems - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By kdc - July 3 - 10:00 am

  We immediately started having problems with the prius computer saying check engine and take to service station immediately. Our dealership said it was safe to drive, and that toyota would have the fix for it in several weeks. Meanwhile, we were responsible for paying for the rental car while they took their time to have it checked out. Toyota customer service is terrible.

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  Ooh what a feeling - 2004 Toyota Sequoia
  By TK10 - July 3 - 10:00 am

  Great Ride! I love a smooth riding Toyo

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  Some problems early, but very nice now - 1999 Toyota Camry
  By firstblood10 - July 3 - 10:00 am

  When my Camry was less than a year old, it was in the shop for a 59 day stretch when a defective part had to be replaced. I got a free loaner (Corolla ...) and they paid my two payments, plus gave me the platinum warranty. Since then, its been a pleasure. I for one think there is plenty of power in it considering it is a 4 cylinder. I never have to merge below freeway speeds. Thats good enough for me. The brakes have never been as good as they should be. They work fine, but they shutter and ocassionally grind, and nothing theyve ever done has fixed this. The suspension rattles in the city, and is a bit loose.

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  New Double Cab Tundra - 2004 Toyota Tundra
  By BDWhitt - July 3 - 10:00 am

  I had initially decided to buy the Tundra Access Cab, but after seeing the first double cab on the highway, I decided I wanted to get the extra doors. Im glad I did. A lot of power and comfort and the reliability of a Toyota.

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  Solara 1999 - 2004 Toyota Camry Solara
  By LitlSicily - July 3 - 10:00 am

  wonderful car for a woman. Very reliable & "bullet proof" performance. I will buy another one next year

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  Good Truck with a Thirsty Engine - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By road2cycle - July 3 - 10:00 am

  Pros: No mechanical problems so far Stylish exterior Comfortable seats Sufficient interior storage Engine has sufficient power Radio, AC, Heater controls in easy to reach locations Deep cupholders Great view of the road Cons: Gets blown around in crosswinds Poor gas mileage (17mpg - 60% highway and 40% city) Rough ride on bumpy roads Clock is in a bad location Gear shift rattles on bumpy roads Baby seat doesnt fit in rear Pillar and headrest block view over left shoulder (driver)

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  Awesome Vehicle!!! - 2004 Toyota Highlander
  By nshaw - July 3 - 10:00 am

  Its been a two weeks that Ive this Toyota. Cant say how much happy Im with it. Had to decide between Van and SUV. Im glad I chose Highlander.Gives same city milege my v6 Honda Accord gives.

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  highlander review - 2004 Toyota Highlander
  By bill bortz - July 3 - 10:00 am

  great vehicle all arouind!!!

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  Dealer DVD - 2004 Toyota Sienna
  By Montee - July 3 - 10:00 am

  My only problem has been a bad DVD player which was known by the selling dealer before delivery but not repaired. Our local dealer Sun Toyota replaced the DVD but it required Two 40 miles trips for service.

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  DESPISE MY CAMRY - 2003 Toyota Camry
  By jowho - July 3 - 2:06 am

  1st day I drove it home I felt alignment problem. After 6 visits, no fix. 4th set of front tires. Toyota reps were RUDE and told me to turn up radio & ignore pulling!! Cust. svc. was NO help. Went to arbitration, waste of time. Rain pours in if window opened a crack. ABS kicks in ALL the time. Seatbelt locks up when I stretch to look for cars coming.Cant see cars coming when I turn my head. Chips EASY. I am more than disappointed. I thought Toyota had an excellent rep., and Ive been ONLY disgusted with dealership, customer service, and still having alignment problem!