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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  best car out there and very stylish - 2007 Toyota Camry
  By becky - September 13 - 3:23 pm

  this car is amazing.. i fell in love with it before it became popular.. i had to order the se when i never even saw what it looked like in person since no dealership had the se in stock and they only make 10% of the ses.. i recommend this car to anyone.. the se is especially good for younger drivers, since it has ground effects, sunroof, and a nice sound system and nice color dials

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  It Rocks !!! - 2002 Toyota Camry Solara
  By shank - September 13 - 2:50 pm

  Been almost 3 years not... but I can just say, that this car has lived up to my expectations. No major issues at all. Just a few trips to the shop for the top. Interiors are great, excellent space in the rear.

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  Great little car - 2001 Toyota Echo
  By Chopper - September 13 - 5:30 am

  With gas prices close to $4 per gallon, I had to step down from my Yukon XL and wanted the most economical car I could find without going hybrid. I didnt know what an Echo was, but in my research, this car continued to show up with top ratings and top MPG. I have had the car several months and several thousand miles and the reviews were right. Gas mileage 36-38 combined driving, with interstate driving at 70 mph. I am very pleased with the car and would consider another. Better performance than a 2000 Ford Focus I also own. It is amazing what that 1.5 L engine can do with this car. I plan to keep this one for a long time.

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  Great Car No Matter What Your Size! - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By 1217trees - September 12 - 11:33 pm

  I have owned my Matrix for 2 years now. I love it. I am 52" and fit very comfortably and my son who is 66" has plenty of leg room and head clearance! This vehicle is so reliable and fun to drive. Love this car!

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  What a car.... - 1999 Toyota Camry
  By beetzmee - September 12 - 5:14 am

  I bought mine back in the Summer of 1999. I owned a 1992 model prior to this. Said another way, I have driven 2 Camrys over the last 19 years. Both were absolutely excellent. I was lucky, this one was built in Japan. The car has been flawless. 137K miles on it now. The AC, Power Windows have never gone down. The original Panasonic Battery lasted 8.5 years. I finally put a starter in it last year at 11.5 years of age. This car, without a doubt, has been the most reliable and competent vehicle I have ever owned, bar none. Its one of those models that if if you can find a clean, well-maintained one. BUY IT. What it lacks in appeal it more than makes up for in reliability.

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  Fun In The Sun - 2006 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Ed Levy - September 11 - 11:46 pm

  I have found my Toyota Solara convertible to be a very satisfying automobile. Converting it to an open car takes slightly less than 10 seconds. The top and the four windows all go down with the touch of one button. The button, unfortunately, is partially hidden behind the steering column and cannot be seen easily. A minor criticism -- but its difficult to fault the car. The ride and quietness feel like a much more expensive car. Especially the quietness which is unusual for a convertible -- and is greatly appreciated. I have driven the car 5,000 miles with absolutely no adjustments or service required. I have owned many new cars and this Solara ranks with the best. At its price, it is a bargain.

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  Is there any other? - 1999 Toyota RAV4
  By Walter & Naomi - September 11 - 11:50 am

  Our 4th Toyota. Currently at 520,000 kms. Is a daily driver seven days a week as my wife is a travelling home support worker. Replaced brakes twice, timing belt three times only as good practice. Never needs wheel alignment. Never fails in any weather. Handles like a dream and my wife drives fast. Car handles like a sports car. Traveled once from Nova Scotia to Ottawa and back with 5 occupants and full of luggage not a problem and only $250 of fuel. Would not think twice of leaving for California in this vehicle tomorrow without service before leaaving. I handle a lot of vehicles and this is the best all around auto in the world by price, comfort, appearance, dependability.

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  2003 Tundra - 2003 Toyota Tundra
  By alejandro - September 11 - 10:00 am

  Great Truck! Everything about this truck is awesome, a real mans truck

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  best darn truck out there - 2003 Toyota Tundra
  By seymour hopskins - September 11 - 10:00 am

  dang good, i think this truck is the best and that ford can never be able to beat this great truck

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  2004 Solara is hot - 2004 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Mickey1 - September 11 - 10:00 am

  Just bought this car 2 days ago and love it.