Toyota is a Japanese automobile manufacturer based in Toyota City, Japan. It was founded as an independent company in 1937. Following World War II, Toyota built itself into one of the world’s largest automakers, initially specializing in small cars and purpose-built SUVs. In recent decades, Toyota has broadened its lineup, producing among the widest range of cars sold in America from any manufacturer.
Whatever the vehicle segment, the hallmarks of Toyota products have long been quality, durability and reliability. Competitors may be more capable, more efficient, or updated more frequently, but a Toyota will still be on the road long after those cars have gone to the junkyard. That build quality is a reason Toyota vehicles — its trucks and SUVs, in particular — have extraordinary resale value. Other characteristics of the brand’s vehicles nowadays include eccentric styling, infrequent model updates and hybrids vehicles over pure electric cars.
While Toyota is a Japanese company, “global brand” is not an empty turn of phrase. Many Toyota vehicles in the U.S. are designed for the American market and built at the company’s six (soon to be seven) American plants.
Toyota Terminology
Apple CarPlay/Android Auto: Toyota has lagged behind other manufacturers in implementing these smartphone-integration software suites; some vehicles lack one or both of these features.
Gazoo Racing: Toyota motorsport division that contributes engineering to road cars. The GR Supra is the first Gazoo Racing-branded model.
Entune: Toyota’s proprietary app suite and infotainment software.
Fuel Cell: Toyota has been a proponent of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Hydrogen is potentially a readily-available, zero-emission fuel source, but the production, storage and transportation are expensive and current infrastructure is lacking.
Taco: Affectionate nickname for the Tacoma midsize pickup truck.
TNGA: “Toyota New Global Architecture.” A modular unibody platform that underpins a range of Toyota and Lexus vehicles.
Toyota Safety Sense: Toyota’s proprietary system of active safety features. Newly redesigned vehicles typically include this as standard.
The Toyota Way: Toyota’s corporate philosophy based on continuous improvement and respect for people.
TRD: Toyota Racing Development. In-house Toyota tuner that produces specialized trims of off-road and road vehicles.
Buying Guide
C-HR
ToyotaThe C-HR is Toyota’s smallest and cheapest crossover; it debuted for the 2017 model year. According to Toyota, it can stand for “compact high rider” or “cross-hatch runabout.” It looks cool, aggressive and youthful. Look past that style, though, and you’ll find it has an underpowered engine and only comes with front-wheel-drive.
