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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  2004 highlander 8cl - 2004 Toyota Highlander
  By Antonio Borrell - February 11 - 10:00 am

  Is one of the best suv I ever drove.

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  No regrets - 2004 Toyota Sienna
  By new to minivans - February 11 - 10:00 am

  1 year & 18.5K miles later, we have had no problems with this minivan. Have been pleasantly surprised at its practicality. Extremely spacious. Had to go on a 90 day tour of duty away from home, family came with me and we were able to pack so much into the van. Kids love the DVD and it handles well on the road. Would definately buy another Sienna in the future.

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  Excellent - 2004 Toyota Sienna
  By Ellyn Davey - February 11 - 10:00 am

  We went on our first road trip with our new Toyota Sienna 2004, and it was the best road trip yet. Thanks for making a van that the whole famiy can appreciate and enjoy!

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  A Dream Car - 2004 Toyota Sienna
  By Ainthair - February 11 - 10:00 am

  I have bought new cars since my first (a Ford Mustang) in 1963. The Toyota Sienna is the FIRST car I ever loved so much that I bought a second! It is the safest, most comfortable and yes, even the most enjoyable car to drive Ive ever owned. I have an entertainment center, AWD, "run-flat" tires, a rear- view camera, and a navigation system all of which gives me a sense of security Ive never known before. I LOVE THIS CAR!!!

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  Love my Sienna! - 2004 Toyota Sienna
  By Mommymobile - February 11 - 10:00 am

  For reliability, safety features, handlind, and comfort, the Sienna cant be beat.This is not my first minivan, but it IS my first Toyota. I wont go back to any other minivan.

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  New Sienna better than 2000 model - 2004 Toyota Sienna
  By billdipaulo - February 11 - 10:00 am

  This is our 2nd Sienna and we love the improvements made in 4 years. Ride is still smooth and mileage adequate for highway driving. Great car for travel as we winter in Florida and take short trips in summer. New features aid in packing hanging clothes and not removing seats, just fold them down and up again when reaching destination. Good acceleration when needed and much better vision through all windows.

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  Archers Dream Vehicle - 2004 Toyota Sienna
  By John E. Archer - February 11 - 10:00 am

  The car is absolutely fun to drive. The gear shift is where it should be on all vehicles. I have a completely loaded vehicle(for the first time) and I really dont feel guilty about spending $37,000.00. The ride is exquisite and the amenities are unbelievable. I have owned Toyotas since 1980 after having felt short changed with American autos. I have never had a major mechanical problem. Im a loyal Toyota owner. Test drive one and you will be hooked.

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  Excellent Mini Van!! - 2004 Toyota Sienna
  By Aldineck - February 11 - 10:00 am

  Excellent vehicle, handles extremely well, very good road machine, very stable, excellent acceleration, more fun to drive than most vehicles that Ive driven.

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  2004 toyota review - 2004 Toyota Camry
  By john talty - February 11 - 10:00 am

  It is a very well made vehicle. Very well designed with comfort in mind. Great car and we are very happy with it so far.

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  2010 Prius II - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Tony - February 11 - 9:56 am

  Currently have 2500 miles on the car with no problems. Reliable, good handling, and braking. Average MPG of 55 (actual) versus 58 on display. Good car with enough room for a family of four on short trips. Highly recommend for the cost/fuel conscious!