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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  Ilove my Toyota - 2000 Toyota Camry
  By littlewalty - February 14 - 10:00 am

  I just love "My Toyota Camary" I feel safe in my car, the ride is smooth and comfortable. The sound system is wonderful.

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  great SUV for the price - 2008 Toyota RAV4
  By shao - February 13 - 8:20 pm

  I got my Rav4 yesterday, 2008 4 cyl base model with roof rail and 17" wheels. Today I added 250 miles on it through moutain roads and freeways. The 4 cyl responses quick and provides sufficient power. The enginee is not quiet but sounds sporty. Handling is fantastic for a SUV at this price. It actiually handels much better than many sedans i drove. The ride is a little bit stiff tho. I think its the trade off of good handling. Interior space is bright, roomy and functional, the design and materials are nice but not the best in class. Overall, I am very happy with my purchase.

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  Wish Toyota still made it - 2015 Toyota Venza
  By jims - February 13 - 3:48 pm

  The Highlander has probably replaced the Venza but if you want sportier handling, slightly less cargo space and car-like comfort and convenience seek out a Classic Venza. Quality, reliability and convenience couldnt be better. Fuel economy on FWD is about 25 mpg overall.

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  A Great Vehicle - 2010 Toyota Highlander
  By Stinraymo in AZ - February 13 - 2:56 pm

  This vehicle is an all around great car. Performance is excellent both off the line and out on the highway when passing. It is very comfortable to drive (I am 6 5"). Gas mileage is as advertised 17-23. I have never gotten as low as 17 and it averages 21-22 in a combination of city/highway driving. The S/E has about everything standard that you could want. The only option that I elected to get was the XM radio receiver. I would highly recommend this car to anyone. My only other Toyota was a 1970 Corona which was a drive to work car. Kept it 14 years and 140,000 miles and it never failed to start one time. Best car I ever owned. Hope this one is as good.

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  I love this car - 2000 Toyota Echo
  By Echo lady - February 13 - 3:26 am

  I bought my car new in 2000 and have been very happy with it ever since. Have had oil and fluids changed regularly. Had timing belt and tires replaced. Otherwise, no problems. Always starts right up.

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  2010 Prius bought June 2009: cost, etc. - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By quist55350 - February 12 - 2:46 pm

  After two days, I am averaging 43 MPG but have driven less than 100 miles and have not gotten to study my manual yet or really practice my skills. Solidly built. Fun to drive. Comfortable. Paid just slightly below the MSRP at $22,690 + tax in Minnesota.

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  Excellent Midsize SUV - 2007 Toyota RAV4
  By Socal Guy - February 12 - 3:30 am

  Test drove the 4wd and 2wd versions and after all was said and done the 2wd sold me. It was just smoother and felt more precise. When you live in socal you dont really need 4wd I guess. Overall quality, performance, and build is just superior for a car that is just under $30k. No issues with noise, rattling, comfort, or performance. I also have a 2005 4Runner and this RAV4 totally beats it hands down! Im selling my 4Runner tomorrow!

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  LOVE IT! - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By chili - February 11 - 10:46 pm

  I debated for weeks as to whether to go with the SR5 or the LTD. Decided to go with the LTD as the higher end options were required (full leather, htd seats, jbl stereo). Got it 2 days ago and it snowed last night. On the way home, I can tell you that this thing is a BEAST in the snow...unbelievable. No slipping and I was trying to spin out. JBL system is outrageously delicious, and the ride is very nice. Headed to Beaver Creek this weekend and plan on testing it up hills, etc.

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  Perfect Car - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Wayne Brown - February 11 - 8:30 am

  I have over 148,000 miles now and havent had a single problem with the car except the MFD which was covered under warranty. The front brakes pads look extremely healthy still although the back brake shoes will likely need replacement within the next 30,000 miles. Easily, very easily, the best car I have ever owned; I have never been happier with any car and I have had more than 20 in my 40 years of driving!

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  My second Camry LE - 2005 Toyota Camry
  By David_H - February 11 - 2:46 am

  The 2005 Camry LE replaced a 2003 Camry LE. There was nothing wrong with the 2003. With 50K miles on it, it had still a quiet, comfortable ride, but I wanted a different color and the features the 2005 model. (ABS brakes, power drivers seat, steering wheel mounted audio controls, five speed automatic, and auto-on lights - and the price was almost the same as the 2003!) The Camry has a comfortable, quiet, refined ride. The four cylinder engine is smooth, quiet, and peppy, and the cabin has plenty headroom for me (Im 64".) The five speed automatic shifts smoothly, but it is a little busier than the 2003s four speed. For the money, the Camry is a very good value.