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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  Expect more Goodies in Limited Version - 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Verysatisfied - May 1 - 6:36 pm

  Ive been trying to get this car over a year in California. I bought it in Reno, NV--only a 2 month wait. Pros: Much better mileage than my Sequoia! I get about 25 hwy/31 city--but I drive 80-85 mph. Great design, but would like more hybrid-specific markings/colors. Great power and acceleration. Smooth, tight driving compared to most SUVs--doesnt feel like a boat. Fun to drive, always watching power meter to improve my driving. Helping environment. Cons: Need better stereo=IPOD/satellite radio. Want to roll down rear hatch window--major bummer! No rear heat/air controls. Need Distance to Empty data! No telescoping steering wheel adjustment. Not allowed in commuter lane!

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  Smooth riding SUV - 2006 Toyota Highlander
  By Joe - May 1 - 12:43 am

  Had my Highlander for about a month and have not been disappointed. Rides almost as smooth as my Acura. Engine shifts effortlessly, very quiet, rides as if you are in a luxury car with SUV capabilities. Great engineering with amazing handling. Owned 3 other SUVs with none of them either close in design or quality.

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  Read the Reviews, Everyone Cant B Wrong - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Morky - April 30 - 10:03 am

  I had a hard time making up my mind but then when I drove the 4 Runner I couldnt believe how smooth and powerful it was for a 6cyl. It honestly feels like an 8cyl. I had a 95 Lexus GS 300 and my 4 Runner is much smoother and quieter. The resale value is the best from any SUV. There is no reason to buy anything else. If you drive this truck you will think youre driving a Lexus truck. Before I purchased my 4 Runner I read a lot of reviews and everyone loves their 4 Runner. I couldnt find any negative comments. Well maybe one but Im sure that was someone who regrets not purchasing one.

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  Very Reliable Car - 1999 Toyota Camry Solara
  By enrik - April 30 - 10:00 am

  I have had my 99 Solara for 5-1/2 years now and have not had a single problem with it. The only expenses have been for maintenance. My daily 40 mile commute to and from work is very comfortable and effortless in this car.

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  Great truck! - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By Geojer - April 30 - 10:00 am

  I bought it new and drove it all over the Montana forest roads, then moved across the country to Miami, Solid feel on two track, mud and on the highway, the 4cly wasnt porsche-like at takeoff with a bed full of rocks but did just fine considering, Great MPG on the road. Seats are a little puritanical in their comfort level, but the ride is good. Overall this is a great small pickup, its not flashy or full of buttons and levers to break, just a solid pickup!

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  Great Truck with one issue - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By hedofbred - April 30 - 10:00 am

  Excellent truck for the price, and all that Toyota quality. One outstanding issue is with the drivers seat. It seems to disengage itself from whatever position you locked it in. Its like a little click and it happens every time you accelerate or brake ie; motion makes this happen.

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  Great Vehicle - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By KHP - April 30 - 10:00 am

  I have owned 3 4Runners before this one. They have continued to improve a great vehicle. Fun to drive, reliable and all around a good vehicle.

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  great van - 2004 Toyota Sienna
  By crab - April 30 - 10:00 am

  Always reliable. Very little maintance.

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  this is a greatcar - 2005 Toyota Corolla
  By roxy - April 30 - 10:00 am

  i love this car

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  2nd time owner of an HH - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Barry - April 29 - 9:26 pm

  Overall very pleased with the vehicle. It is very quiet and smooth riding and plenty of room. I expect the fuel econ to improve at 600 miles driven fuel econ at 23.4 mpg on tank 1 and 25.1 on tank 2