Toyota Motor Company started exporting vehicles to the United States almost a half century ago. Initially, consumer reaction was not positive. Toyota products were seen as inferior to domestic vehicles and many of the company’s offerings were sub par. The company initially focused on fuel efficient, compact models. These vehicles were extremely frugal in gasoline usage and very budget friendly. Toyota came to market with acceptable products below the prices of domestic competitors.
Though the company’s initial offerings were typically less than stellar, sales quickly began to pick up. By the late 70s, Toyota had become a force in the American car market and would continue to gain market shares for the next several decades. Toyota has offered many stand out products, including some of their earlier offerings and now the company’s focus on the technology of tomorrow makes them leaders in many automotive categories.
Beginning in the early days, Toyota produced several models that are noteworthy and, as such, recognized as the company’s top ten models of all time.
The Toyota Corolla was and is a great example of a budget friendly compact car. The Corolla has stellar reliability, delivers strong gas mileage, offers numerous amenities, and is extremely budget friendly.
The Toyota Camry is perhaps the most important Toyota product to date. This mid-size family sedan offers a spacious interior, expected options, is reliable, and economical. This is Toyota best selling product and will likely stay that way in the U.S. for years to come.
The Toyota Celica is recognized as the company’s attempt at a sporty hatchback. The Celica did not always sell well, but it proved that the company could make a mass produced, fund to drive vehicle that fit into most budget.
The Toyota MR2 is sorely missed as loyalists are upset that this icon has departed from the Toyota lineup. The MR2 was a mid engined, rear wheel drive vehicle that in terms of handling could keep up with a Porsche, yet return strong fuel economy and was easy on the wallet.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is the quintessential off road SUV. It’s ability off road is hard to match yet it came with all of the interior amenities expected in a luxury vehicle. This SUV is still adored and respected worldwide today.
Next on the list is the Toyota Camry Hybrid. This mainstream hybrid model delivers outstanding fuel economy in a familiar package and does so for a modest price increase.
Occupying the final three spots in the top ten models of all time for Toyota are all three generations of the world class Toyota Prius.
Starting with the first generation Prius back in the late nineties, Toyota successfully designed a dedicated hybrid product that was an immediate hit.
Moving forward, the second generation Prius generated even more sales and push the fuel economy numbers even further.
Now on to the third generation, the current Prius delivers up to 50 mpg, the highest of any modern vehicle, yet it has a base price of around $23,000 making it an instant hit. To date, Toyota has sold more hybrid products than all other automakers combined.
Looking forward, Toyota plans the introduction of several more hybrid vehicles. Their focus on hybrid products is evident and their goal of delivering fuel efficient, affordable vehicles drives their design and product releases. Toyota is one of the most successful automakers in the world and the list of their top ten models of all time shows some of their tremendously successful products.
