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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  Reliable car - 2004 Toyota Camry
  By rita adams - April 6 - 1:30 pm

  Very reliable car.

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  Good move to buy Camry XLE - 2006 Toyota Camry
  By Bob - April 6 - 9:46 am

  I find the handling great and the fuel economy wonderful. Thought about a Lexus GS 300, but made a better decision with the Camry. Like the 6 disc CD changer and sound system very much!

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  Everything you would expect from Toyota - 2010 Toyota Camry
  By BC - April 6 - 9:13 am

  I drove the Sonata, Accord, and Malibu before choosing the Camry. I enjoyed all the cars except for the Honda. When 0% interest hit I took the Camry out for a spin. This vehicle is smooth, quiet, and surprisingly peppy. I have read the reviews about the interior and I feel that it is very adequate. I also enjoy the ride and like the steering feel. As a commuter or family vehicle you cant go wrong with the Camry. This is my first Toyota and I am impressed thus far.

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  Awesome - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Bong Alquiroz - April 6 - 7:36 am

  When I bought my 4runner in 2004 I am not expecting that this car is that good, I am satisfied with the power and the stability when you are driving in the freeway, going up in the mountain and offroad, the engine is very quiet, gas mileage? Just right. What else can I say..it is an awesome SUV.

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  Love My Camry - 2000 Toyota Camry
  By Holly - April 6 - 1:00 am

  I have had my Camry for 10 years and have loved it. It has needed minimal repairs: new brake pads after 5 yrs, new battery after 10 years and a couple mufflers. It is fun and extremely comfortable to drive, and in fact is the only vehicle seat that doesnt aggravate my back condition. I would highly recommend it to anyone.

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  Best... Truck... EVER - 2007 Toyota Tundra
  By Ted - April 5 - 9:53 pm

  I was a Dodge guy for years until I got sick of replacing brakes and front ends every 10,000 miles. Ive had my Tundra for just over a year, and its by far the best truck Ive ever owned. Its fast, smooth, reliable, and eagerly takes on any weather the Northeast can dish out. I will never buy another brand again. As long as Toyota makes the Tundra, Ill own one.

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  Very reliable AWD car - 1997 Toyota RAV4
  By Bill - April 5 - 9:00 pm

  I actually own 2 1997 RAV4s. These cars have been very economical and no problem mechanically. I am in the mountains of North Idaho where there is lots of snow and ice. They perform very well on all-season tires. I am now looking for a third RAV4 and I will pass the older model off to another child of mine.

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  Great Little Car - 2006 Toyota Corolla
  By scapesuit - April 5 - 6:06 pm

  During warm weather getting 40+ miles per gallon (35 in sub-freezing weather). Never have to worry about it getting me where I need to go. Recommend keeping tires inflated to 30 psi as Toyota recommends.

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  Avalon XLS - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By RL - April 5 - 11:06 am

  First foreign car I have purchased and pleasantly surprised. We like everything about this car. Very comfortable, excellent engine power, and good fuel economy. Would recommend the Avalon to anyone.

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  Second to none - 2004 Toyota Land Cruiser
  By luckylug - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Why did I waited so long to purchased this great vehicle ? Oh , yes the price.