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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  Le 8 passinger - 2015 Toyota Sienna
  By Itzhak Reich - November 29 - 3:57 am

  2 issues with this minivan 1st one when you open the second row windows it makes terrible noise 2nd the cruse control hook flickers when it lights up @ night, took it to the dealer, they said they know about this problem but do not have a cure for it, a little disappointed

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  So Far so Good - 2007 Toyota Tundra
  By Michael T - November 29 - 2:36 am

  I bought this truck to replace a 2003 Toyota Tacoma. I went with the TRD package because I love the look. I drive 90 miles a day so comfort and reliability are also very important. After reading several reviews I went with the 5.7L V8 and man am I glad. This truck is pure fun. The ride is smooth and comfortable. My wife doesnt want to drive her Expedition anymore! Im not a big truck guy but this thing is perfect for people looking for the convenience of a truck and the ride of a car. The truck is big so people need to be aware that parking can be tight. With that said all I can say is, Toyota did it once again. Great job!

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  Color dispute - 2011 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Shelly - November 29 - 2:00 am

  I ordered a 2010 Shoreline Blue Toyota Highlander Hybrid in Aug 2010 and after all this time, i found out that they will not send a blue Highlander to my dealership and there are none to be found within a 450 mile radius. WHY? Who knows. Toyota hasnt given me a good reason, but in spite of that, I will order a Highlander in another color and look forward to driving it soon.

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  Great car, fun to drive - 2000 Toyota Celica
  By Dolores - November 29 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car used with 140K miles and put another 60K on it in 2 years. The car is extremely reliable and has had no mechanical issues. Sadly, a man in a Ford F150 broad sided us at 70 mph and totaled my nice little red car. He had to be towed and we loaded up our loose and knocked off parts in the hatch and kept driving. This car is so much fun to drive on twisty roads because its handling allows the car to scream through tight curves. Another bonus is its consistent 32 mpg. It has been as high as 36 mpg (ideal conditions @ 60 mph). Its been a great car and I hate to see it go.

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  overall its ok - 2007 Toyota Sienna
  By carrie - November 29 - 2:00 am

  I got this van with about 10,000 miles on it. I brought it back to the dealership about a month later with a very annoying rattle in the driver side slider, the rattle came and went, and while it was making the noise, it would drive me crazy. They were unable to hear it, so of course they couldnt fix it. three trips back and forth to the dealership and they were unable to fix what they couldnt hear, finally, I brought it to another dealership and they fixed it. My only other comment is negative; regarding the spare tire recall-- I have had the spare in the back of my van for months- - get on the ball Toyota-- this is completely unacceptable-- I guess its better than having it fall off.

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  Checking in at 74K - 2004 Toyota Sienna
  By ChuckfromLI - November 29 - 2:00 am

  Just had the spark plugs replaced at 74K. It was running fine, but had that done anyway at Toyota dealer along with PCV valve, air filter, oil change and tire rotation. Total bill was $625 with the tax (8.5%). The plugs are a big job on this year Sienna because the intake manifold needs to be removed to change them, hence it is about three hours labor for the plus alone. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that there is no distributor cap or plug wires to change. Van still runs and drives as new. There may be a slight whistling sound from the passenger side front window at highway speeds. Other than that, still happy with it.

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  Awesome Truck - 2011 Toyota Tacoma
  By Peterj6 - November 29 - 2:00 am

  I have wanted a truck ever since I traded in my trusty 2004 Ranger a couple of years ago. I needed something that would get reasonable mileage and room for 4 adults. This truck nailed it. Was concerned about the seat from prior reviews. I am ok with height but did not feel comfortable until a couple weeks in. What blows me away most is that this truck handles like a car even with the longer bed. Love the XM for rural drives in the Northeast for work. More storage than I will ever need and it is beautifully styled. Mileage is about 17-18 mixed which is pretty good given that I am a lead foot. Only gripe is that for $30K this should have heated mirrors. Even my basic Ranger had that.

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  One Cute Ute! - 2004 Toyota RAV4
  By PhredFan - November 28 - 9:30 pm

  Love the style! Of all the cars Ive owned (7) this one is the most FUN to drive. Remote no longer opens the drivers door - a pain. The ride is surely not as smooth as my Camry, but I love this Cute Ute! Im looking to buy one for my mom because its a great size, has great visibility, and its FUN.

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  Im home again! - 2008 Toyota RAV4
  By Toyota man since 77 - November 28 - 8:06 pm

  I ventured from Toyota in 2006 to a Kia Sportage EX V6 AWD w/leather. Nice, but just not the overall quality/style of Toyota, not good mpg, strange shifting pattern in AT. I asked myself what Id want to see in the driveway 5 years down the road. So, I got my RAV4. When I get behind the wheel, Im at peace. Its more solid, handles better, and Im getting about 24-25 mpg combined so far. The quality and value will always be there, and the RAV4 will far outlast any 10 yr. 100k warranty others offer, and without problems. I opted for the 4 cyl., but see the V6 is rated higher MPG??? Ill believe it when I see it. The 4 cyl. has ample power without gulping down your paycheck in gas.

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  Drive It before you buy another car... - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By KLM - November 28 - 6:00 pm

  Perfect engine combination of power and economy. Touring is firm but what I wanted in a luxury car. My second avalon, I tried a 2000 model and liked it so much I had to get the updated, more refined, better design 2005 model. So far no problems other than radio door cover sticks in down position, and toyota punishes you if you take off your seat belt with an irritating ascending bell. Please..big brother, a simple light warning is plenty! PS. All those who cant figure out how to turn of the radio from the steering wheel..just hold down the power button for 3 seconds!