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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  Rattles & steering - 2009 Toyota Corolla
  By Tony - October 28 - 6:30 am

  Great car overall our 5th Toyota. Fuel consumption is good about 5.5 litres/100km on long runs & 6.8 around town. Very sensitive steering. This is not a problem but does require more attention while driving or the car can be in the wrong lane very quickly. Have experienced a rumble/knock in front region of car plus rattles in sun roof. Dealer changed windshield thinking it was flexing body.This didnt solve problem. Dealer has just replaced a front strut & housing which has solved problem. Now we only have minor rattles.

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  Good Vehicle to Me - 2001 Toyota Highlander
  By Wendy - October 28 - 5:20 am

  I have owned this car since 2001. I abuse my cars and am lucky to have it in for an oil change every 5,000 miles. It is in need of its 60,000 mile tune-up and I am over 100,000 miles now... ughh. One of the best vehicles I have ever owned, aside from a dead battery (my fault), and the check engine light (from some idiot not putting my air filter back correctly after an oil change) never had a problem. Plan to give it to my son who will be driving age in 2 years. Then... maybe another highlander.

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  My ICEBERG FJ - 2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By FJ Rocks - October 27 - 5:46 pm

  Best vehicle i have ever owned. Best of both worlds. I live in a remote area an do alot of driving an when the weather gets bad i need a suv that will preform safely for me an my family. This one is the best i have ever had. Drives great on road an will go where i need to go. I have owned alot of vehicles but nothing even compares to the fj. If you want a vehicle that will go like a jeep but last like no other buy a fj. Toyota made another great product with the fj. Too bad they dont sell them anymore in the us. I love it. An the aftermarket parts selection are unreal. You can make it customized to your liking in no time.

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  c-hr what a car - 2018 Toyota C-HR
  By carguy - October 27 - 1:49 pm

  I think this car is underrated it has style with decent acceleration, comfortable seating and the best safety features offered by car makers the only down side is front wheel drive and not all wheel drive but it is definitely worth the price.

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  Great car! What Fun! - 2002 Toyota MR2 Spyder
  By Carol G - October 27 - 12:20 pm

  I have had my MR2 for almost 4 years and have loved every minute of it! There are always looks to see what Im driving. If you love lots of attention, you must drive this car!

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  Dont even think about it - just BUY IT! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Brent - October 27 - 12:13 pm

  I bought my first Toyota (a Tacoma Double-Cab) two years ago. Other than routine maintenance, i never experienced a single problem. Had only bought GM vehicles previously. What a difference. plus, my Tacoma held its resale value better than anything I have ever owned. As for the 4-Runner, I have the base model with 4-Wheel drive, a Sunroof, 17" Wheels and a Rear Spoiler. Those were the options most important to me. I absolutely LOVE this vehicle. As others have said, the smoothness of the ride and the quiet interior will remind you of a big luxery auto. The steering is controlled but incredibly tight. Braking, handling, and basically every function is precise. Go get one - any trim level!

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  2007 Toyota Tundra - 2007 Toyota Tundra
  By Alex - October 27 - 10:46 am

  Typical Toyota Product. Great workmanship. Outstanding specs.

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  Top Cat - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By master mech. - October 27 - 5:00 am

  Quiet ride,excellent v6 engine,fit and finish a perfect 10, washable interior and comfortable seating. Add this up and you have a Top Cat on the block.

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  Impressed by this car - 2007 Toyota Yaris
  By Mark S. - October 27 - 3:20 am

  Was traveling cross country when my 1984 Cressida broke down. Wanted a base Corolla but the dealer was out of them. Test drove the Yaris and thought it would suffice. My first fill up and I was amazed at the 42 mpg. I have been getting 42 mpg consistently rain or shine. At 4500 miles it isnt even broken in, so I expect 44 mpg or so once it is broken in. It is peppy, handles well and looks awesome from the front. Great slope on wind shield.

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  Style & Comfort - 2004 Toyota Tundra
  By joemuzz - October 26 - 8:13 pm

  I loved it when I first saw it, and it went uphill from there! The optional leather captains chairs give great support and plenty of comfort. The numerous cup holders, pockets, and console storage bins and underseat tool storage areas are very convenient. The only down side is less than expected fuel economy. GREAT TRUCK!