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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  A great first car !!!!! - 2004 Toyota Camry Solara
  By komodox - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I originally wanted an Acura TSX. I test drove the Solara with the hope that I wouldnÂ’t like it and be forced to get the Ac. Much to my surprise, I absolutely fell in love with it. A 2.4L-4cyl. manual with a kick. The interior is rather spacious, especially in the back, and the materials and layout are on point. IÂ’ve put 1860 miles on it in only 2.5 weeks with never an uncomfortable moment. The sport editionÂ’s aggressive stance looks like nothing else on the road. It fits my lifestyleÂ…young, fun, and corporate. People canÂ’t help but stop, stare, and complimentÂ…and I just love driving it.

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  The Best Car for the Best Price - 2004 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Tiffani - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I traded in my Saturn for this brand new Solara. I never really was intrested in Toyota but in a new Honda Accord which was way over priced! Being 20 I wanted a sporty car that also looked more "grown up". Then I saw the new Solara and I fell in love. I test drove one and then ordered mine. I cannot find one flaw in the car. And the best part everyone thinks its the Lexus Coupe!

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  You cant go wrong!! - 2001 Toyota Camry
  By Runner 3604 - November 4 - 2:00 am

  This car has been flawless in its function and design. It has run great since day one. The only services performed to date are an alignment, the 30K service and routine LOF and tire rotation. The dealer has been excellent both in the buying process and service. I hope to have this car into the 100k range. I believe that the secret to keeping these cars in top shape is to follow the service guides faithfully.

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  Toyota 4 door - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By Toyman of San Diego - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I have always owned a Toyota and I know I am paying extra for this privilage! Tiyota will last for 150k to 200k miles with just an oil change! They are worth every penny!

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  Great car - 2004 Toyota Highlander
  By Emma - November 4 - 2:00 am

  After driving a Buick for 11yrs, my Highlander has been a real joy. It handle great and gets wonderful gas milage

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  Great Quality - 2004 Toyota Corolla
  By elan - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Toyota did a very good job at redesigning this vehicle. For the money, I think its the best value out of the compact vehicles.

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  Toyota - 2004 Toyota Corolla
  By Alitote - November 4 - 2:00 am

  It is the best Toyota out there

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  Reving to go - 2004 Toyota Camry
  By arjam - November 4 - 2:00 am

  My experience has been wonderful with my new Camry. I could not asked for a better vehicle. It is roomy and comfortable. It drives so smoothly. Im glad I made this purchase. I will defintely buy again.

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  Prius Rocks - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By pmanza - November 3 - 4:20 pm

  Traded in a Lexus RX 300 for the Prius, mostly for better gas mileage. Was shopping Camry Hybrid against Prius, but went with Prius as a better overall value, plus I actually like the hatchback design. While the car isnt as comfortable as a Lexus, or as quiet, it still is very nice and I dont find myself missing my old car at all (well almost). Many complain about the seats in the Prius, but for me they are fine, plenty comfortable and supportive. It also was really nice filling up for the first time after 400 miles and it only cost $24! Even my husband was sold after we drove it home getting 55 mpg on the highway right off the lot.

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  Good Car - 2009 Toyota Camry
  By LKB207 - November 3 - 10:40 am

  I didnt really purchase the car but my family rented it. Rides very nice and is very comfortable. Best Toyota I have ever ridden in. The motor is very quiet and the car is very nice. Keep it up Toyota!