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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  Granny pleased - 2008 Toyota Sienna
  By Judge - May 13 - 8:33 pm

  The 8 Passenger sold my wife It can haul all of our grand kids and the mid seat that positions foreward is great for the 14 mo old to be accessed while driving and hold car seat. It has been getting over 24 mpg on the road. Fits in the garage better also.

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  Great car!!! - 2000 Toyota Camry
  By Pete - May 13 - 1:03 pm

  Bought mine new in 2000 and have had a no major problems with this car. After 7 years still runs smooth for a 4 cylinder. Love the power and reliability and performance. Great with gas mileage.

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  susies star - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By susan skinsch - May 13 - 10:00 am

  car is very reliable-economical and comfortabl

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  Amazing car - 2003 Toyota Corolla
  By Whistler2 - May 13 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car. The best in its class for sure. The other cars I tested (Civic, Protege, Sentra, Elantra, Focus) have nothing on this new Corolla. I highly reccomend it!

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  My best Toyota ever - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By winn - May 13 - 12:16 am

  This is the best car I have ever owned for fuel economy and has plenty of room inside and rides great. I got a package 5 so Im very happy with all of the features that are in the auto. It is easy to park and fantastic on a long trip. It has great pickup when needed and the fuel economy isnt as expected yet but more than enough to please me for what I spent for the car. Drive one & you will love it.

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  Toyota Delivers - 2006 Toyota Sienna
  By Steven Scott - May 12 - 7:56 pm

  I spent considerable time comparing the Sienna with the Honda and Chrysler minivans. The Sienna has a better feel in handling and in comfort. There is plenty of power with the 233HP engine. The Toyota cost more than the other minivans but the drive and amenities were worth the extra. I havent found any flaws in the vehicle yet, but Ive only had it for 5 weeks. Draw backs to the Sienna are: low quality Turanza tires, a slightly higher cost in insurance than the other minivans, and gas mileage that does not live up to sticker expectations.

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  MY Landcruiser - 2005 Toyota Land Cruiser
  By Toymom - May 12 - 4:56 pm

  This auto is well built and sturdy, stands up to the elements. It is high enough off the ground to have a good clearance for 4 wheel driving, a necessity for gold prospecting and camping in remote places. Yet it isnt too high that I cant get in easily. I like the hand holds to assist getting in, the height off the road so I can see traffic well ahead of me and the protection it affords me in the event of an auto accident (My last Landcruiser was totalled and I walked away without so much as a scratch). The vehicle is also roomy for hauling cross country track teams, chess teams, martial arts teams, campimg gear, and symphony instruments around.

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  Best Truck Ever........ - 2000 Toyota Tundra
  By NKY - May 12 - 4:43 pm

  Bought truck used in Oct. 2005 with 76K and have driven daily since then. Unfailingly reliable and built like a tank. Drives like a big Camry, far better than our Honda Pilot. Hauls anything in reason in total comfort. Its a bit of a gas guzzler, but what full-size 4wd pickup isnt? Cant wait to upgrade to a newer model!

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  Matrix - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By oh ok - May 12 - 3:40 pm

  This is a fun car to drive. Easy to see all the way around. The passenger visor is a little awkward when moved to the side window because it hits the passengers door handle. This car would be perfect if it was a bit longer and wider for the passengers in the back seat.

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  A very Nice Car - 2006 Toyota Camry
  By Avil Stewart - May 12 - 1:56 pm

  I recently purchased this car for my wife and I am really pleased with the style and performance of this car. My wife wanted this car so bad after test driving it and I wanted to get an Accord but Im glad I went with the camry.