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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  my wifes SUV - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Scout Av8er - February 27 - 2:00 am

  My wife loves her SUV. Has no problems driving in the snow. Feels safe and secure in the vehicle.

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  Excellent Ride! - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jessie - February 27 - 2:00 am

  This is the most wonderful SUV I have ever owned. I have two kids in carseats and there is still enough room in the backseat for someone to sit. The back window rolls down to which is awesome. It has so much room and great on gas. I love my 4runner!

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  A Step Up - 2004 Toyota Corolla
  By vanion2 - February 27 - 2:00 am

  With the smooth power band, great gas mileage, and simple but stylish looks, it was no wonder I chose this car after test driving the 04 Civic EX and ION QC3. I enjoy the roomy feeling interior and uncomplicated layout of the accesories. The car handles well on the road but needs better factory tires. In its class it shines.

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  paint chips - 2002 Toyota Camry
  By jmh1 - February 27 - 2:00 am

  In addition to many minor problems that were fixed by the dealer (fuel pump, loose shield under car) this car has so many paint chips and flakes that the paint job must be defective.

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  1992 Toyota Camry LE Review - 1992 Toyota Camry
  By Rich - February 26 - 11:23 pm

  Extremely reliable. Solid performer. Change the oil regularly, change the timing belt overy 60,000 miles. Maintain it well, and you will get 200,000 miles out of it.

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  Good Choice - 2008 Toyota Highlander
  By whasp18 - February 26 - 7:02 am

  After researching a "family" vehicle purchase for over two months, I eventually decided on a used 2008 Toyota Highlander, 7 passenger - FWD V6. I test drove all the 2012 Dodge, Chevy, Ford alternatives. I decided on a used Highlander for the price point & TCO. No buyers remorse currently. On my first long trip I decided to test out MPGs. Half the trip I drove interstate, 75-80 MPH; MPG were between 20-21, I was disappointed. On my return trip I took an alternate route & drove 60-70 MPH; MPG were between 28-29, I was impressed. I chose a FWD in anticipation of better MPG. Power and performance of the V6 engine is great. If you can adjust your driving style, you can get 2012 MPG in a 2008.

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  Cant go wrong - 2006 Toyota Sienna
  By D - February 26 - 3:36 am

  Honda or Toyota? Up to you. But with AWD in the Pacific NW, we couldnt go wrong. Plus, the fully loaded Sienna is closer to a Lexus than the Odyssey is to an Acura. 100% satisfied. So much more refined than 2003 4Runner Ltd.

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  Could be a bit more stout - 2007 Toyota RAV4
  By Pretty Good - February 26 - 1:56 am

  Bought the 4 cylinder version in January 2006. No complaints on motor. Interior is very spacious for this class. Two weaknesses stand out: 1) the interior rattles from more than one location, and I cant locate or stop all the rattles. Not good for a Toyota, frankly. 2) Less importantly, the center-console cupholders are very poorly designed. Prepare for spilled drinks because the pressure-tabs are useless for holding anything less than jumbo cups. Overall the vehicle is well worth the price. I like the 4 cylinder version (with no 3rd seat) for teenage drivers for safety considerations, and the rear-door spare too.

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  Poor MPG - 2017 Toyota Highlander
  By mcosta.tech@gmail.com - February 26 - 1:54 am

  Love the Comfort but I am only getting 18.8 MPG with most of my driving on the Highway. My 2000 Ford F350 Crew Cab Long bed with over sized tires and 4x the power gets 20 MPG. Pretty sad that I drive my 17 year full size truck to save on fuel. I talked to the dealer and they didnt seem to care.

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  Peppy Prius - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Judy Guariglia - February 26 - 12:01 am

  Cant imagine having a different vehicle. This is my 2nd consecutive Prius. I am more than happy. Very impressed with the new design. Sexy, fast and environmentally friendly!