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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  Amazing Car - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By viktoo - July 2 - 2:00 am

  Ever since i can remember there has always been one toyota in our garage. The 2000 Avalon XlS is our second avalon (96 Xls the first) and it is an amazing car. A strong powerful engine that can make any driver want to take it to the red line. But at the same time a great comfortable interrior and asethically pleasing to the eye. One of the smoothest rides out that makes it a pleasure to take on even the longest trips. I think for the price and the quality it should be any car lovers dream. If you are out to buy a new or used car i highly recomend this car. You will not be disappointed.

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  Love this car - 2001 Toyota Corolla
  By Lar - July 2 - 2:00 am

  I have had it only a short time but the 5 speed manual really makes it come alive. This car is rated to tow 1500 lbs and a Honda is rated 0. Get better gas mileage than Honda

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  4Runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By beatle - July 2 - 2:00 am

  Vehicle is better than I had anticipated. The ride, performance and mileage is great. Im a repeat Toyota owner and plan to remain loyal.

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  Perfect Mini Van - 2000 Toyota Sienna
  By y2komar - July 2 - 1:50 am

  I bought this car used. I have only done routine maintenance and I am very happy with it. Great family vehicle. Not too big or small, not too fast or slow. I have 116k miles on it and it still runs like new. Love it.

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  Most Happy - 2007 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Happy - July 1 - 10:50 pm

  Just bought this car and love it. Great comfort, handling and visual appeal.

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  2005 tacoma-best compact there is!! - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Chuck A - July 1 - 6:50 pm

  I love this truck! 25 mpg average and have not had one problem with it. Ive owned it for 6 mths and have driven it 16,000 miles. I recently went on a 2500 mile trip and got 26 mpg,not bad for an 80 mph average. Ive gotten 31 mpg driving 55 mph. Solid build quality, plenty of power and a joy to drive. If you want a truck that will last and is famous for going 300,000 miles + and last for 20 years + then buy the toyota.

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  I love my Highlander! - 2005 Toyota Highlander
  By Kris - July 1 - 2:43 pm

  I love my Highlander. It has the size of an SUV but drives and handles like a car. It is very comfortable. Much more comfortable than my husbands Mercedes M-350!

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  Nice Change - 2010 Toyota Corolla
  By Kellie - July 1 - 9:46 am

  My old car was a 2001 Ford Escape and the change was very welcome. I love the fuel economy. While it is on the smaller side, it is the perfect size for my needs. I am looking forward to saving some $$ over the next few years.

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  Great SUV - 2007 Toyota RAV4
  By pattyboy20 - July 1 - 6:00 am

  Zipps right along, great pickup and go, comfortabile ride, stops immediatly, feul milage is awsome, turns on a dime, stability and comfortability is unmatched! My brother is Pro buy America (as I am), but even he is suprized at the comfort and ride. Very satisfied!!!

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  Happytown - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By kjr - June 30 - 8:40 pm

  I could not be happier with my new 4Runner, smooth ride and excellent handling. Fuel economy appears to be around 21 mpg on highway.