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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  Another Toyota - 2005 Toyota Highlander
  By collinsdgc - July 17 - 12:33 pm

  I purchased a Toyota for one reason, I have to have a automobile that will run and not have mechanical problems. The biggest selling point for me is that the new Toyotas have timing chains (no more belts). This might seem strange to you but I have had three cars in the past die because of timing belt failure. The over-all quality of the highlander is A+, the exterior design is Ok, the comfort and performance is great and I would highly recomend this highlander to anyone who enjoys perfection.

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  Wish it would die.... - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By BillSki - July 17 - 10:00 am

  Always wanted a quiet, reliable car. This one has been a keeper, owned new since 96. Up to 155K miles, no major problems. Go thru tires about 50-60k, 1st battery replaced in 2004! Struts have been making clunking noises for a few years, but not a safety issue. Side windows get a bit noisy, especially when I have to put ski racks on - they will leak, thanks to the aero door design. Tend to break the auto retract antenna a lot. dunno why. Bought car after a 2-door SAAB 900S. Miss the Euro handling and heated seats in NE USA. Been super-reliable. No real complaints, I wish it would die; after eight years Im getting a bit bored and d

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  More Ups than Downs - 2004 Toyota Celica
  By angelphish - July 17 - 10:00 am

  I love this car so far; however, there are some downfalls. The paint does chip very easily, despite the extra clear coat that was added. This is very upsetting since I take excellent care of the car and wash it at least every other week. The back window creates a huge blind spot. The door paneling scratches easily and shows marks. The radio could be better. There is not much bass at all!Other than that I have had good experiences. The front seat is very comfortable. The fuel economy is amazing! I average about 35.5 with city and hwy combined. The body is beautiful. Action pkg is a must. Very fun to drive. Controls are easy to locate and use.

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  The BEST I have ever driven in 33yrs.!!! - 2004 Toyota Celica
  By Gatorwoman! - July 17 - 10:00 am

  This is the second Celica I have had, the first one being a 2000. I leased the 2000 and was determined to get another Celica due to the reliability of this vehicle. In the four years I leased it, this car was the best all around in quality,performance,design,gas milage wise, and just all around FUN!!! I put my seal of approval on this great car, with the knowledge that Toyota will stop making them within the next couple of years....so sad!!!

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  avalon97 - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By hewitt - July 17 - 10:00 am

  have driven it to tah and back arizona and return nova scotia and back a delight to drive absolutely no problems

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  Upgraded Cruiser - 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser
  By Friediguana - July 17 - 10:00 am

  I just upgraded to the FJ100 from a FJ90 I had for ten years. All I can say is WOW! I beat my old FJ90 up something fierce and it just keeps rolling (250K)...I was thinking of keeping it 4 another 200K miles but a "used" (never off-road) FJ100 got my attention. Needless to say this newbie has exceeded all my expectations in terms of durability, power, and confidence.

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  My wife would not let sell this car - 2001 Toyota Sienna
  By setin1 - July 17 - 10:00 am

  AC/heating unit a little bit week – take almost five minutes to cool down in the summer, and heating up in the winter time.

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  Fun to drive - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By grannyjo - July 17 - 10:00 am

  Sporty and fun. Lots of interior room. Plenty of room to move things. Both back seats and passenger seat fold down to allow carrying misc. cargo. Passenger seat folds down to provide a table for backseat passenger. Plenty of leg and head room. Hatchback is convenient and cargo cover provides privacy. Average gas mileage is 33 mpg- -I drive mostly highway miles. I have owned car for 1 month and I have yet to regret purchase. Insurance is reasonable, also.

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  Everyone is happy - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By kass - July 17 - 10:00 am

  My family, 17 and 12 year old sons, 15 year old daughter, my wife and I all like it. Everyone has found something about this car that makes them smile. It is a Toyota and it is fun to drive.

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  Toyota Camry - 1999 Toyota Camry
  By JLY - July 17 - 10:00 am

  Excellent automobile, excellent value.