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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  Tacoma 4x4 4 door - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By uvlsalsmn - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Great truck at a great price!

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  My 02 Tacoma 4x4 - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By Mike in AZ. - September 26 - 10:00 am

  A great all around truck.The 4x4 with TRD package works great off road.High ground clearence,with skid plates protecting vital organs.The locking rear differential works great.The V6 has plenty of power,but sucks a little moore gas than I thought it would.A bit pricey.I think I payed to much for mine.If you think you can get a good deal on one,get it. dont hesitate.

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  4 alot more than Running - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Wally - September 26 - 10:00 am

  With 4000 miles now, everything has been great with this truck. We traded a Cadillac Escalade for this and we wonder why we didnt do it sooner. We have gotten excellent gas mileage for a SUV, its quiet, handles, amd brakes extremely well. One thing I would have like to have been able to get is height adjustment on the passenger seat. There is no need for a rear cargo door button because there is an electronic release on the outside of the cargo door. The motorized locking mechanisim is very nice for those who dont like to slam doors shut. The JBL stereo is very nice too. The 4.0 six is a great engine.

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  Very Satisfied Consumer - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Qz - September 26 - 10:00 am

  The only thing Ive found frustrating is when I go to use the home link garage door opener at night. It would have been nice to have it back lit.

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  best suv ever - 2003 Toyota Highlander
  By jackie - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This has been the best car Ive ever driven. Ive had alot of compliments on the suv. Had a friend that went out and purchased one and said she has always liked her Toyotas, But, she loves this one ,fun to drive. It is wonderful in snow and ice.I always have people ask what kind of suv every where I go.Its the best!!!!

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  Worth it - 2003 Toyota Highlander
  By stevo - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Great vehicle, drives like a cadillac, roomier than it even looks. Cant go wrong with this truck.

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  Love it - 2003 Toyota Highlander
  By Reglo - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I researched all mid size SUVs and test drove about 3 of them. The highlander had the best ratings, a great ride, decent gas mileage. I feel comfortable, safe and stylish.

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  love the Highlander - 2003 Toyota Highlander
  By rwh153 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I have had the Highlander for over a month and have been extremly pleased. It handles beautifully and rides like a dream. The Schaumburg Toyota dealership has been great. There was a small chip on the door panel that I didnt see and when I returned to the dealership they fixed it immediately, no questions asked, and even gave me a loaner to use for the day.

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  I love it!! - 2003 Toyota Highlander
  By pattipumpkin - September 26 - 10:00 am

  The Highlander is a great vehicle and I have enjoyed every minute of driving it. The ride is great-very smooth. There is more front leg room than the Honda Pilot which I saw at the Auto Show in Chicago. My Highlander has been very reliable and the gas mileage is quite respectable for an SUV. I get a lot of comments from it from neighbors and coworkers and would recommend it to anyone.

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  Great mileage - 2003 Toyota Highlander
  By rrgy2k - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Im getting 21mpg in town (who ever heard of a car that gets 20% better gas mileage than the sticker?) Great rear seat comfort. Good ride. I couldnt be happier!