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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  First Toyota - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By MD-80 - May 14 - 2:56 pm

  So far so good. Car seems dependable but not without its problems. Fuel mileage is not as stated (less than what Toyota claims). Takes several attempts to open the cover for radio and Nav, (have to push the buttons numerous times to open the cover). Nav is difficult due to having to use the "Enter" button constantly, older models were more intuitive. Difficult to find garage opener buttons on rear view mirror at night since they are not illuminated (neither are the buttons for the rear shade, trunk and fuel cap). Needs body side molding desperately to prevent dings and dents!

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  1998 tacoma 4x4 - 1998 Toyota Tacoma
  By Mikep - May 14 - 10:00 am

  Greatest truck I have ever had. It does not even know what the word stuck means!!!!!!!!

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  What happened to Toyota? - 2006 Toyota Sequoia
  By Mom of Two - May 13 - 3:53 pm

  Previous happy Toyota owner. I have had nothing but problems - electrical problems with this SUV since I got it. Toyota seems to not care. I tried arbitration with no luck. My car at 2 yrs old spent ONE month at the dealer maintenance only to have more electrical problems. I cannot let it idle without it wanting to stall - such a bummer when stuck in traffic!! At the time of arbitration Toyota claimed that the car is working at that instant so there is no issue, they will continue to fix problems that arise. That is not product reliability to me. I think I got stuck with the lemon.

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  Used 2007 Prius - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By hadrian - May 12 - 3:42 am

  Purchased used in 2/12 for $ 10,300.with 66k. Have driven for 1 year, now have 80k on vehicle. Has performed well in daily commute avg 40-43 mpg 30 mile round trip daily. Maint. costs very low, replaced frt pads, air filter and changed oil twice; thats it. Put snows on front and performs okay in up to 4" of plowed snow. Beige interior not best looking and shows dirt and/or stains; get something darker. Overall no regrets; will have a long time; prob give to daughter for longer commute out of town for two yr masters.

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  Comfortable and Reliable - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By Daniel - May 11 - 1:23 pm

  Never had a problem since I bought the car in 2000. Very comfortable and quiet. Good acceleration and mediocre brakes. Less than satisfactory gas mileage in city driving. Car rattles unlike near luxury car when driving over uneven surface. Suspension could be a little stiffer. Sound system could be a little better.

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  So Far So Good - 2001 Toyota Sienna
  By RubyRedSienna - May 11 - 10:00 am

  Have had several minor problems, but nothing major. On hot summer days, the door locks stick, and you cant enter or exit through that door. Locks were replaced by dealer twice in 2002. Also had problems with seat belt jamming in retraction mechanism. I have heard about the engine sludge problem, so we have changed the oil on time every time without fail. Havent had any problems with the engine yet (so far, so good). Overall, it has been an excellent vehicle. The ride is extremely comfortable, and there is enough room to be comfortable, even loaded with bags on vacation (although there are only 4 of us). Might be too small for a family of 5 or 6.

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  TRD off road double cab - 2016 Toyota Tacoma
  By Matt - May 10 - 9:21 am

  So far I have been pleased with the truck. Shifting can be a little quirky at times but nothing major. Ride is nice and has plenty of power for me. Gas milage has been better than expected. Getting 21-22 for commute with up to 26 if I dont hit a bunch of lights. Cant wait to get it out on some trails to see how itdoes.

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  Love My Sienna - 2004 Toyota Sienna
  By PR - May 9 - 10:20 am

  I love my Sienna, I carry everything but the kitchen sink in it. It is roomy and has made life easier for me and my 4 year old. My only disappointment is that I do not think it is fast enough when I have to enter the highway or pass someone. Also, outside noise is not filtered and the air conditioner is not strong enough. Could be because its a big car. Not sure, but overall, Im happy. Oh, its also great on gas!

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  2000 Se - 2000 Toyota Sienna
  By Gordo - May 9 - 10:00 am

  Excellent minivan! We have three daughters 10,8, and 3. This van is smaller than the other minivans, but will certainly be more than adequate for our needs for the next five years. The middle row captains chairs are ideal, allowing one of the girls to have the entire 3rd row to themself.

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  It meets my needs. - 2001 Toyota Tacoma
  By Diana - May 9 - 10:00 am

  I am very happy with my pre-runner. It has been flawless in the 10K I have owned it. Actually Im not a big off road person, but I have hauled some big items with this truck, and for my small needs the truck is perfect. Good gas milage, low maintenance, and a great value for many years. It also hauls the kids and equipment fine. Then Ill give it to my son and buy another.