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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  First Car - 1994 Toyota Camry
  By ohsookay - November 21 - 5:44 pm

  I bought this car in 2012 after I got my license, and it really is a great car. Purchased the car at 130k, and Im current at 216k. Never had any major problems with it; just the usual standard routine; oil, tires, brakes, struts, and transmission fluid. The only major thing I take in my Camry is for the timing belt, but other than that the car runs amazing. Seats are super comfortable, and compared to most cars nowadays, theres plenty of leg and head room! And a spacious trunk as well. I get about 28/29 ish mpg on highway, and just a little bit less on the street.

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  Seems like a winner - 2007 Toyota Tacoma
  By Foghorn - November 21 - 2:23 pm

  This is my first "non" full-sized truck, after 4 Dodges. What I gave up in power and torque, I feel I have made up for in fit and finish. This truck screams quality. Its airtight, the first vehicle I have owned with no rattles or squeaks. The V6 has more than enough get-up-and-go, it handles very well and has a tight turning radius. Brakes are a little spongy but strong. Seats are quite comfortable and supportive. I have not experienced the paint chipping (yet) others have complained about. Too new to gauge mileage. I bought this truck banking on the infamous Toyota quality and longevity and while its too early to tell, so far I am impressed.

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  My 4Runner - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By FredK - November 21 - 1:00 pm

  Recently purchased a 2006 Toyota 4Runner Sport Edition. I love this truck! I definitely suggest the upgraded suspension that comes with Sport Edition and is available with the Limited. The ride is noticeably better.

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  Cool Camry - 2004 Toyota Camry
  By Ashleymae - November 21 - 3:50 am

  I bought the car 9 months ago with 34,000 miles. It now has 68,900. So far I have just had to replace the front brake pads. It does have a couple of rattles in the dash that I cant find. I turn up the radio and that takes care of that. The paint job could use a little improvement no shine, dull. The sunroof has a wind whistle and I have to tap the close button and it closes all the way. No leaks so far. Stinky smell coming from the AC vents. A trip to the dealer for the AC refresher treatment cured that little problem. My Camry has the 4 banger and gets around 24/26 city and 28/34 highway. I have a lead foot so this is good. I also like the fact that it has a time chain instead of a belt.

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  The Best Car Out There!! Period - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By ERazor - November 20 - 10:26 pm

  I buy them used and I replaced my 1995 Avalon with a 2003 Avalon. I will replace this one with another. If it ever wears out that is. They are the best cars that I have ever owned.

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  Love It!!! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Love my 4 runner - November 20 - 7:16 pm

  No regrets about buying this vehicle. Ive had my 4 runner for almost a year now. The more I drive it, the more I love it. It runs, rides, and looks great. Gas mileage has been far better than I had anticipated. Great vehicle overall!

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  Exceptional - 2010 Toyota Avalon
  By p teig - November 20 - 10:36 am

  This is my second Avalon, my other was a 2007, and I am a committed Avalon owner. I am not sure why other reviews say the outside is bland, when I know my car receives a lot of head turns. Seriously, if you want a great car, solid construction, and durable, buy the Avalon.

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  First and last Toyota - 2010 Toyota Camry
  By miguel - November 20 - 6:56 am

  I have to start by saying it looks good and is comfortable to drive, that is where my praise ends. I now have 3000 miles on it and find myself loaded with regret. Nowhere in the manual or brochure is there a mention of what the service manager called clutch braking. That is the extremely annoying downshifting you do in town traffic. I really hate that I did not notice it on the short test drive. I am guessing that is why my mileage is bad, most recent was 20 on the hiway. Best was 28 on a flat road in Kansas, tires at 35 psi and 60 mph. Best average is 22, and I drive very conservatively. I bought it to gain better mileage, if you have similar desires, look elsewhere.

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  Toyota 4 Runner The drive that make you want to ke - 2017 Toyota 4Runner
  By Delynn Terry - November 20 - 12:22 am

  The sleek look and drive of this vehicle could not be better. We enjoy driving and riding around in this vehicle on a daily basis. We highly recommend the Toyota 4 Runner. It is like driving on air.

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  still going - 1998 Toyota Tacoma
  By headhunter130 - November 19 - 9:08 pm

  My truck has over 357,000 miles and has been through it.