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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  Just cant part with it! - 1994 Toyota Camry
  By Sam - May 15 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my Camry in 1996, from a single owner. My plan was to drive it for 10 years, then buy a new car, but I just cant seem to part with it. After 14 years, and 200,000 miles, both the interior and exterior look new, with just one speck of rust where the spoiler is attached to the car. The only problem I have run into is that the antenna only goes up half- way, but the reception is still great. I have never put any money into it, other than regular maintenance, and I still get 30 mpg. The engine is incredibly quiet, and the ride is very smooth. I havent decided which car I will buy next, but Im sure that it will be a Toyota!

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  poor navigation system - 2010 Toyota Avalon
  By CS - May 15 - 10:00 am

  This is the fourth Toyota and the second Avalon that I have owned. I have loved them all and would rate them all a 10. However, I will never buy another Toyota because of the poor navigation system. I cannot believe that Toyota would put such a poor system in their cars. (See below). We purchased this car especially because we wanted a GPS installed system.

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  Best Toyota Ive owned yet - 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By mshw - May 15 - 10:00 am

  Ive been driving Toyotas since college. Original Toyota truck, 4Runner, Highlander, 96 Tacoma; you get the picture. But, the FJ is by far my favorite Toyota that Ive owned over the past 20 years. Unique styling, excellent power, good interior thats very forgiving to active lifestyles, and comfortable ride. Gas mileage is fair but its a real SUV, not a wannabe. And for the so called "blind spots", 2 small blind spot mirrors work like a charm!

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  Bland but Grand - 2007 Toyota Corolla
  By Ralphist - May 15 - 10:00 am

  I got this car in June 08 with about 6,000 miles on it. It now has 62,300 and it runs wonderfully. The car always starts right up. I think the idle runs a bit high, but I am told this is normal. As per the manual it should idle at around 750 RPM. Mechanically nothing has needed to be addressed. I have only replaced a front light bulb. I have really scrutinized EVERYTHING with this car. Other than the idling (which turned out to be normal) the other thing I noticed is that the belt sometimes squeaks after start up. This happens during wet weather, particularly during the first start. Thats about all I find as far as the negatives go. This car runs smoothly and is very easy to drive

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  A formidable achievement. - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By James - May 15 - 10:00 am

  My 2010 Prius II is the finest overall car I have ever owned and I have been driving my own cars for forty years. It has the unique ability to transport four people in comfort and do so with an overall average of 50 mpg. I am impressed with the technology and am convinced Toyota loses money on the base car. It combines excellent driving characteristics (its no sports sedan, however) with an engaging dash and controls. I enjoy driving this car. Gripes? The tires need more compliance as they now transmit too much road noise and harshness into the cabin. Also the radio/entertainment system combo is weak. I am not convinced spending more on factory pieces would be worthwhile. The after-market s

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  2011 XLE 4K Miles - 2011 Toyota Camry
  By RGLove - May 15 - 10:00 am

  Purchased demo with 4000 miles and the car seems like it came off the assembly line. Great fit/finish, quiet as a vault and not a rattle. This is our 10th Toyota purchase so expectations are high and car does not disappoint. Gave my 07 SE to daughter and bought 11 XLE. Thought I would miss the SE sporty ride, bit very pleased with the responsive handling/ride of the 2011. The 4 banger is peppy and the 6 speed works quietly with smooth shifts. The exterior color Barcelona Red Metallic sparkles and has an expensive rich look.

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  Its a Screamer!! - 2006 Toyota RAV4
  By Mark A Probus - May 15 - 2:26 am

  I absolutely love driving this vehicle. I cannot imagine why anybody would buy the 4 with the amazing V6 performance that is available for a few $k more! MPG is pretty good, and on regular.

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  Fun little car - 2008 Toyota Yaris
  By LarryP - May 14 - 1:33 pm

  Ive had my car for one month after three tanks of gas Im averaging 33 mph combined, my highway driving is rush hour and mostly stop and go. Ive seen 80 mph with no problems and it seems pretty peppy for a 1.5 engine. I think Ill get a scan gauge and try to increase my mpg, I have a heavy foot which probably accounts for my lower mph, 33 mph isnt really that low as far as Im concerned as I was driving a Ford F150. Great car I recommend it if you looking for an inexpensive commuter.

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  Best Car You Can Buy - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By Monkeys rok mi sox - May 14 - 1:30 pm

  If you are looking for a car that will be worth every penny you spent on it, the 4Runner is your best bet. It is probably the most comfortable midsize SUV. The drive is also superb. Also, it is very reliable. You dont want to get out of the car once you get in. AWESOME CAR!

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  Toyota Solara Convertible SLE V6 - 2006 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Sylvia Gallina - May 14 - 2:36 am

  This car handles like a sport car. Very stable and hugs the curves like a dream on the mountain roads. Also, the ability to shift from automatic to manual is great both going up and down hills.