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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  Best Bang For The Buck - 2006 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Brett - January 16 - 12:53 pm

  I have now owned my Solara convertible for all of two days. So far, this car has met or surpassed all of my expectations. I have never looked forward to driving so much. This car is just as luxurious as my Lexus RX300, but costs less and is much more fun to drive. Aside from a few minor quips...such as better rear visibility, more lockable compartments, and better illumination of the center controls, this car is a 10. I test drove the mid-range Saab and BMW convertibles and the Solara is just as nice -- and costs 10K less. If you are looking for a full size convertibe at a reasonable price that doesnt miss a beat (even with the top up) this is the car for you.

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  Love it and No Looking Back - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By LOLguy - January 16 - 11:13 am

  Moved on from a Subaru Outback and love the 54MPG from 21 with the Subaru. Great style and build, and lots of fun to drive. Much consideration has also been given to safety (side bags, traction control, etc.). Plus, being able to track whats powering the car (battery v. engine), bluetooth capability, navigation and now SIRIUS), its a big geeks dream. A BIG thumbs up!!!

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  Researched Choice - 2006 Toyota RAV4
  By Joe - January 16 - 8:46 am

  I researched a great deal to find a decent SUV that was reliable, appealing, and attained decent gas mileage. Boy was I thrilled to find the V6 Rav 4. Not only is it a much bigger vehicle than previous models, the performance of the V6 is phenomenal! I average 27 mpg on the interstate driving to work... incredible! The ride quality is wonderful and the increased amount of interior space makes trips so comfortable. Im so happy with my Rav4 V6 and I havent looked back. Do the research yourself, you wont be sorry... besides... its a Toyota.

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  260,000 miles. Amazed it is so strong. - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Dug Less - January 15 - 8:11 pm

  I just purchased a 1999 4Runner Limited with 260K on the odometer. I had driven many Toyotas and Subarus prior to this purchase. The interior shows wear but the drive and the ride are amazing. I live in Florida and this machine has never been in the snow/salt of the cold north. My plan is to fix and repair as needed. I am amazed that this truck feels so new. The only thing that needs fixed/replaced is the climate control module. It is intermittent.

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  21st Century SUV - 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By MWB - January 15 - 7:30 pm

  Though Ive only driven a couple hundred miles, I already love this SUV. Im impressed with the quality of the ride and handling. Im not anticipating the 31 mpg promised for city driving. Nevertheless, I can hardly believe what Im already seeing on the fuel computer! 25 mpg is awesome for the power produced in this 4X4! Im also impressed with the quiet, smooth car- like ride. I get all I had before plus a quality, hi-tech machine with a tax break!

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  Best First Car Ever!!!!!!!!! - 2000 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Taco16 - January 15 - 7:06 pm

  This is my first car and it has been nothing but great....Buy one you will love it. Very little if any maintance, first real problem was needed new air pump after 75,000 miles but nothing else, except required maintance. All my freinds want to drive it.

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  First Toyota Truck - 2009 Toyota Tundra
  By Scott - January 15 - 11:36 am

  Traded a 2003 Chevy Silverado with many reliability issues, most resent head gasket leaking anti freeze. I had it with Chevy quality. The new Tundra is a great hauling machine. I am getting just -1 mpg difference than the 5.3L Chevy. Was concerned about the stiff ride mentioned by other reviews but not much of a problem to me! Very quiet interior for a solid truck. Ive owned Chevy, GMC, Ford and Dodge trucks, most were good machines but I am very impressed the Tundra.

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  Have to love them to want to own one. - 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By bkd - January 15 - 11:13 am

  My grandfather owned an orig. FJ from 1965 until his death. It looked rough but ran well. Since he taught me to drive I have always wanted one. Never wanted to invest in a rust bucket. When the news ones came out it was a wish come true. You have to love them for yourself. It is not for kids or soccer moms. It is for dad and trip to the outdoors. If you love being outside in the mountains it is worth every penny. I grew up in Colorado and have dreamed of my get away and now it is here. It isnt practical but it is mine and it gets me out in style and reliability.

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  MY TOY - 2003 Toyota Sequoia
  By Ladydi - January 15 - 2:00 am

  Love my sequoia, very roomy and comfy, added flowmaster gave a little more horsepower and a few more turning heads. Got mine without roofrack for a more longer sleeker look, no need for rack with all the storage space inside. FWD handles great in snow. Kids and hubby love it too. Love My Toy!

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  Glad to have my Spyder - 2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder
  By ksb-now40 - January 15 - 2:00 am

  This car (like others have stated) is fun fun fun to drive. Corners very well, but the sequential shifts like a little ofd lady would. Thats ok with me. It is hard to describe all of the heads that turn (young and old alike) when they see my baby blue MR2. I feel fortunate that the couple of teenagers, who wanted my car, had parents that would not cosign for them. My biggest problem is time-sharing the second seat between my wife and two children.