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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  Great SUV! - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By coman - April 7 - 9:23 am

  Solid, quiet, fun! One drive and I was hooked. After driving a Mercury Mountaineer for 9 years, this truck feels like driving a sports car (and I dont even have the sport suspension). Definitely a truck but the smoothest riding and quietest truck Ive even driven. Havent heard a single rattle or squeak. Toyota quality cant be beat!

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  Excellent Value but Blah - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By horsenaround - April 7 - 8:13 am

  Ive owned my Avalon for 9 mos now and really like it. The fuel economy and comfort are great. The car is a breeze to drive, quiet, and smooth (except when the transmission down shifts - abrupt). It lacks youthful style and a few amenities, like an iPod connection, that I would like to have. The keyless entry system is wonderful; however, the remote start is disappointing. The car also needs body side molding for protection. The interior materials are also inferior for a car cost $32k+. I would not buy another Avalon, mostly because they are not fun to drive. Im in my early 50s and not ready for an old folks car just yet.

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  Great vehicle except for typical Toyota rust - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By EJG - April 6 - 3:42 pm

  I bought mine used with 125,000 and sold it with 185,000 several years later. Mechanically it has been great, only did typical maintenance and some smaller repairs, such as a tune up, timing belt. It did need and axle seal and bearing, water pump and A/C compressor, ABS pump and a few other items later on. However, with approaching 200,000 miles it still had the original engine, transmission, all suspension and differentials and drive like it had 50,000 miles on it. No squeaks, rattles and just a pleasure to drive. My biggest disappointment was how bad it rusted out. The frame rusted through by the lower control arm perches in the rear. I had it repaired and a few years later it rusted out right next to the repairs. The frame was literally rusting from the inside out and flaking apart, even after I caught it soon after purchased and had it rust proofed three times. By 185,000 the rocker panels were also rusting though, even after rust proofing and trying to prevent any corrosion. Unfortunately after worrying about the compromised safety of it since I used it to transport my 2 children I had to trade it in. It is probably one of the best vehicles I have owned but with the frame crumbling it has made me have second thoughts about Toyota build quality, especially with no recall for it offered by Toyota. If looking at one I would suggest finding one from the southwest or pacific northwest, somewhere free of road salt and have it thoroughly inspected.

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  Reliability, & ALL the bells & whistles! - 2008 Toyota Tundra
  By Halls1030 - April 6 - 3:40 pm

  Currently have just under 12k on the odometer. I have the top of the line Limited fully loaded. I traded in a 06 SR5 Double Cab for this truck. I also test drove the Silverado, Avalanche, Titan, and F-150/250s prior to purchasing the truck. Granted, everyone is entitled to his/her opinion but I just dont feel anything comes close to the Tundra... Bluetooth, nav, rear window and sunroof, huge backseat, rear DVD, aux jack for your iPod or MP3 player, heated seats, rear backup camera, huge towing power, silky yet powerful brakes, quick off the line (although itll swallow your gas) and real "torquey" feel. Huge ride, but plush. Doesnt drive like a truck - thats a good thing to me!

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  Fully Meeting Expectations - 2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid
  By B Boswell - April 6 - 1:50 pm

  Replaced a 2005 Lexus ES330. Planning ahead for inevitable return to high fuel prices, now almost certain with Federal Government policies. Achieved an average of 37.7 miles to the gallon during the first 2 weeks and 500 miles of mixed driving and ownership. Ride and comfort compares very well with the Lexus. CVT transmission much smoother than the Lexus. Actually think the shape and comfort of the seats exceed the Lexus. Have learned how to utilize only the electric motors and battery at around 30 miles per hour on the flat streets in our community. Overall, very pleased with the car and am convinced that we made the right purchase decision. $1,000 incentive from Toyota also appreciated.

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  Beats Ford - 2000 Toyota Tundra
  By Cain Toyota - April 6 - 12:53 pm

  Prior to buying a Tundra, I owned a ford 150 and paid about 3000 dollars less then the Tundra. Over the long term comparison, the Tundra out preformed the ford 150 in every aspect. I enjoy the performance of the Tundra and over the seven years I have put very little money in to repair bills. I have followed all the specs for mileage requirements and my truck looks and runs as well as it did the day I drove the truck off the lot. I plan to keep this truck for another 7 years.

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  Love My Sequoia - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By jraider - April 6 - 10:00 am

  We purchased our Sequoia in Nov. after our 98 Sienna lease was up. Our dealer showed us the Sequoia, we drove it then drove a new (03) Sienna, we knew it was the Sequoia hands down. Our kids are older (12 and 14)they fit better in the Sequoia, and they are only getting bigger. The Sequioa is fun to drive, and handles great for a large SUV. The interior has lots of cubbies and cup holders, and numerous sunglass holders (dont know why). For us its a great family vehicle. My husband recently rode in a friends new Lexus SUV for a fairly long drive, and he said our Sequoia was much more comfortable.

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  Great car - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By wcroninger - April 6 - 10:00 am

  Weve been 101% happy with this vehicle. Gas mileage is somewhat better than claimed. We have a 45 mile total daily commute at speeds 55-60mph. Sufficient umph for turnpike driving and sufficient pickup once you get used to the idea that you have to use the accelerator alittle harder than usual to bring the electric motor online. All around great car.

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  A noisy little commuter - 2003 Toyota Echo
  By bmick - April 6 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car after driving it around town, thinking it was a good buy. Problem: the features changed so much between 02-03, the dealer did not know what I was requesting. I ended up without the split seats, the remote mirrors, and the larger tires. Also, the car is a great around-the- town car, but a pathetic commuter. It is NOISY, POORLY INSULATED, AND TOO LIGHT ON THE FREEWAY IN THE WIND. If you make this purchase, plan to be thrown around on the road and unable to hear your favorite CD playing. Oh, yeah, turn the volume up to max on your cell phone also.

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  Best Compact Sedan on the Market! - 1997 Toyota Corolla
  By Flyest - April 6 - 10:00 am

  I recently purchased my car (two months ago) and I have fell in love with it. It looks great, it’s reliable, and it has great gas mileage. I have the DX model, with all of the possible features, and I have to say...it is the "Queen" of all other 1997 Corollas. I would definitely recommend a Corolla to anyone.