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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  Just a "Blah" Car... - 1998 Toyota Camry
  By LordJoeChi - July 10 - 12:46 pm

  We had a 1988 Toyota Camry that ran forever with no problems. This is our second Camry and to be honest, I am a little disappointed. I also had a 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier VL Coupe that had less power and was a "smaller" car yet had better pick-up and a LOT more interior room which for me, is a big deal because I am over 65" and the 1998 Camry just doesnt fit me well at all. Its SUPPOSED to have something like 80" of overall room but it doesnt seem to. Also, the seats, well, they are pure CRAP. No support for hips, thighs, back or anything. Yeah, they are soft but after a little while, it feels like sitting on concrete blocks. Otherwise, everything else about the car is just blah.

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  Excellent Van - 2004 Toyota Sienna
  By bridgeguy - July 10 - 9:03 am

  We have had our Sienna for 3 years now. The van was purchased in lieu of an SUV when we found out we were having twins. Our oldest likes the third row single seat, while the twins take up the captains chairs in the middle. The split third row gives us a lot of flexibility in storage or an extra two seats when needed. We love the van and have had no issues/complaints with the reliability or quality. The only issue that has risen is the battery has died many times. Each time has had a cause, i.e. a light left on. However, I dont think one interior light should kill a battery. My 2002 Tundra has never had battery issues. It may be time to upgrade the battery.

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  A car to be enjoyed for all seasons. - 2006 Toyota Camry
  By Rita - July 10 - 3:03 am

  When you get behind the wheel you can feel comfortable and relaxed with all the luxurious appointments. Everything is easy to reach and understand. It feels designed with the driver in mind. I love my Camry LE. Im over 70 years old and havent felt better about any other car Ive owned.

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  It rocks my socks off. - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By back40 - July 10 - 2:03 am

  I love it. Man this this is fun to drive, look at and mod. This is the best vehicle I have ever owned.

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  Sport Coupe Pickup - 2008 Toyota Tundra
  By Philips - July 9 - 11:46 pm

  Small V8 performance and with its five passenger, hard top coupe styling, "cozy", intimate, and, very comfortable, four adult pass interior, coupled with decent gas mileage... makes it the perfect choice for a single "empty nester" like myself. The 21.5 MPG Hwy, is the "frosting on the cake", pretty amazing for a vehicle this size. The 60-40 split, flip up rear seat with under seat storage holds all my camping gear or whatever, securely locked. Plus, I can tow up to 5000lbs if I want... Great Truck!... Looks great, I get lots of compliments. Mine is White with Graphite, Bucket seats with Console... My traveling office.

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  I do not like this vehicle - 2013 Toyota 4Runner
  By kara8 - July 9 - 7:22 pm

  This is my 2nd 4Runner. My last 4Runner was old and I wanted a new, reliable vehicle for my daughter and me as I was worried I would start having problems. New 4Runner is not reliable. I really, really dont like this vehicle at all. I have had it since Aug. Every time something hits the windshield, it cracks. Its cracked 3 times since Aug. Major hassle to get it fixed every time it breaks and it seems like it always breaks. Prior to this vehicle, I have replaced 1 windshield. Also had a major electrical failure, which put it in the shop for 5 days. Still doesnt seem right but the techs say its fine. Waiting for it to break again. It shifts totally weird. I dont recommend

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  I love this car!! - 2009 Toyota Yaris
  By Stephanie Less - July 9 - 4:26 pm

  This car is fantastic! I test drove both the manual and the automatic, and the manual is just wonderful. The clutch is smooth and it handles great. This little car can get up and go! One thing I love is how roomy it is, even though it looks like small from the outside. I can fit my sculpture supplies in the back no problem, especially after folding down the seats. I thought the speedometer in the middle would be a problem, but Ive had no issue with it all, and I dont think anyone should let that hold them back from this great car.

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  Most of it is right - 2007 Toyota Tundra
  By lmoore - July 9 - 10:53 am

  Owned more than 10 trucks in 10 years. Im in the accessory business with a great relationship with all brand dealers. Great power, brakes, smooth tranny, and imposing looks. Does not ride any better than chevy or ford, a little better than dodge. Leans a lot in corners, but it is big for a 1/2 ton. Interior is a funny combination of materials and colors, but functions well. Mileage is close to 15 city, close to 20 at 65 mph. 17.8 at 80 mph. Wind noise is more than acceptable but slightly annoying over 70. It will be more difficult to get aftermarket wheels as they have changed the bolt pattern. Billet grille and steps are now available. Impressive!

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  Avalon -Wow - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By William Boothe - July 9 - 3:43 am

  I had see previous Avalons and have not been impressed, just a Camry with a few more inches. When I saw the 2005 for the first time, I was awe struck. It is big, beautiful and sexy. If you need it to, it can haul out, if you know what I mean. Everyone I show it to loves it too. Get the White one, the best color for this car. What a car!

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  This car rocks, rattles & rolls - 2007 Toyota Yaris
  By sackie - July 9 - 12:46 am

  I bought my Yaris as an automatic only because the buyers havent given consideration to people who want one with power package, and a manual transmission. I love control and the manual trans. rocks. There are a few annoying rattles from under the dash, and hopefully the dealer will take care of it, without having to take it apart. The sound system rocks, as theyve improved the sensitivity to discriminating ears. I havent found the magic way to get good gas mileage... maybe turning the car off, while coasting down a hill will help. All in all, I still love my Toyota Yaris!