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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  pearly white - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By SRM - October 10 - 2:00 am

  With one more year left driving my diamond pearl white Avalon Im begining to consider my options for a replacement car. The only option...will be GPS navigation and this is available in current Avalon models. FYI...I must be the only owner with factory mud guards (color matched). I think they are worth the money. So far I consider my car a very good everyday vehicle for a salesman.

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  I love my car - 2001 Toyota Corolla
  By ccbdsmith - October 10 - 2:00 am

  I have loved this car since the day I first drove it. I drive 100 miles every day, and I still look forward to getting in it every morning. The only thing I wish I had is ABS

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  2003 4Runner Much Improved. - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By StephanieandPaul - October 10 - 2:00 am

  I already had a 2000 4Runner, so I was not looking to buy another one. Seeing the new 4Runners exterior did not have a magical effect on me, but after getting in side it, I had to have it. It is so more roomier, the back hatch door closes automatically and has a sensor to open it (no more dirty hands). I love my heated seats and the dual climate control is a must for a happy marriage. The stereo controls on the steering wheel and the new designed HVAC controls keep my eyes on the road. It handels better than the Land Crusier. The acceleration with the V8 is awesome! My insurance rates actually went down due to the side curtain air bags.

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  Fast commuting truck - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By stoutbrewer - October 10 - 2:00 am

  I decided the Tacoma double cab was right for my family.I got a good price from the dealer, the color I wanted and all the options we needed without any of the hassle. In the city I get 16/gal but Im sure I can wring more once its been broke in. It drives like a truck (bouncy at times) but overall not bad (without a load in the back). It scoots off the line and pulls nicely up steep grades and stops undramatically. Driven in heavy rain it has no problems even with a stiff cross wind or on a steep grade. The A/C cools fast and doesnt bog the engine. The stereo is nice with a cassette and/or CD design and the back seats tilt for extra storage which is an additional nice feature.

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  A New Hylander - 2003 Toyota Highlander
  By Patterson, Debbie - October 10 - 2:00 am

  In March of 2002 I recently purchaced a new Hylander from Toyota of Temecula. Ever since we have had the Hylander we have loved it. Personally I believe that it should be one of the 10 Best for Car and Driver. We love the Hylander.

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  Fun loving, Sports Sedan - 2003 Toyota Corolla
  By Paul3thomas - October 10 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. The interior is unique. It speaks toyota. The build, te power and strength of the vehicle is great. It is Fun to drive too.

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  Should have done it sooner... - 2003 Toyota Camry
  By Steve123 - October 10 - 2:00 am

  I went and test drove both a v6 LE and a v6 XLE. Even though (both on line and at the dealer) the price difference was ~1500, its a world of difference. If I was reviewing an LE, I would not rate it as high. The XLE has an awsome Lexus like ride. Controls are where they need to be and are easily reached. My wife absolutly loves the car. She was a bit skeptical at first though. Anyone considering a Camry should test drive an XLE first, then try the LE. Youll be glad you did

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  2004 Sienna Big and tricked out - 2004 Toyota Sienna
  By darryl - October 10 - 2:00 am

  Love the comfort, and gagets they put into the everyday driving. Neat back seat that splits and stored away. love all the storage places for things.

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  Avalon Is Great - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By Monte Johnson - October 9 - 8:53 pm

  We purchased Avalon new. Only repairs were front brake pads at 80,000 miles, rear brake pads at 87,000 miles. Battery at 7 years and tires at 40,000 and again at 80,000 miles. Rides better than a Cadillac DTS. Always starts in Iowa winter and great handling on snow and ice.

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  Ho Hum - 2006 Toyota Camry
  By Jack - October 9 - 7:10 pm

  Boring Boring Boring. It better be dependable and have high resale because it is not meeting expectations for performance or economy. HAH! We drive moderately and the best we have ever gotten is 27mpg. In town we usually get about 20mpg. Id hate to see the mileage that someone who rabbits and rages will get. It handles very little better than my pickup. On the positive, it is very roomy for a midsize and the back seat head and legroom was the best we found for the price.