7 Best Toyota Cars You Need to Know About in 2024
When it comes to choosing a reliable, affordable, and long-lasting car Toyota stands tall among other automakers. But with a huge lineup of models to pick from you might be asking yourself “What’s the best Toyota car?”. Well I’m here to walk you through that question exploring what makes each Toyota model a winner and maybe help you find your next ride.
Whether you're looking for a fuel-efficient sedan a family-friendly SUV or a rugged off-roader Toyota has something for every driver. But let's not just paint a perfect picture we'll also take a fun twist looking at some of the quirks or minor drawbacks of each vehicle too because who doesn't enjoy a little humor when car shopping?
For a more in-depth comparison of reliable Toyota cars make sure to visit Avenue Motors NJ.
Best Toyota Cars: The Lineup
Table of Contents
- Toyota Corolla: The Best All-Around
- Toyota Camry: The Comfort King
- Toyota RAV4: The Compact SUV Hero
- Toyota Highlander: The Spacious Adventurer
- Toyota Tacoma: The Tough Truck
- Toyota Prius: The Eco-Friendly Innovator
- Toyota 4Runner: The Off-Road Beast
Toyota Corolla: The Best All-Around
A Perfect Mix of Affordability and Reliability
If there's one name that's been around for decades and continues to win hearts it's the Toyota Corolla. With its compact design solid reliability and affordability the Corolla has become a household name around the globe.
Pros
- Fuel Efficiency: With around 32 city / 41 highway MPG the Corolla is a great choice for those wanting to save on fuel.
- Affordability: It’s one of the most budget-friendly cars on this list making it perfect for first-time buyers or those needing a dependable commuter.
- Tech Features: Standard features include Apple CarPlay Android Auto and a responsive touchscreen display.
Cons (With a Smile)
- Trunk Space: Let’s be honest. If you're the type who likes to pack a trunk like it’s Mary Poppins’ bag the Corolla might challenge your Tetris skills.
- Acceleration: “Zero to sixty in...eventually” comes to mind. It’s not built for speed but hey that’s why you’re getting a Corolla not a Ferrari.
Why Choose the Corolla?
The Toyota Corolla is for those who value practicality over flashiness. It’s reliable economical and it gets you from A to B without breaking the bank.
Toyota Camry: The Comfort King
More Than Just Your Dad's Sedan
The Toyota Camry is like the Corolla’s older more sophisticated brother. It offers more luxury comfort and power while still maintaining that legendary reliability Toyota is known for.
Pros
- Spacious Interior: The Camry provides more legroom and comfort than most other sedans in its class.
- Powerful V6 Option: If you want a sedan with some oomph under the hood you can opt for the V6 engine.
- Advanced Safety Features: Equipped with Toyota Safety Sense you get lane departure warnings adaptive cruise control and more.
Cons (A Little Tongue-in-Cheek)
- Not Sporty Enough?: While the V6 adds some power it’s still not going to make you feel like you're driving in a Formula 1 race.
- Harder to Park: With a larger size than the Corolla it can be slightly challenging to squeeze into those tight parking spots especially if you're one of those folks who likes to pull in nose-first.
Why Choose the Camry?
The Camry is great for those who want more space and power than the Corolla but still want the same reliability and value. It’s a perfect family car for those who don't want to compromise on style and comfort.
Toyota RAV4: The Compact SUV Hero
A Compact SUV That Hits All the Right Notes
One of Toyota’s best-selling vehicles the RAV4 is the compact SUV you didn't know you needed. It’s versatile sporty and has enough room to fit your kids their friends and everyone's gear.
Pros
- Versatility: It’s equally at home on city streets as it is on dirt roads.
- Spacious Cabin: For a compact SUV the RAV4 provides plenty of cargo space and comfort for all passengers.
- Hybrid Option: You can go greener with the RAV4 Hybrid which offers excellent fuel economy for an SUV.
Cons (Poking a Bit of Fun)
- Road Noise: You might find yourself turning up the volume on the radio to drown out some of that wind noise especially on the highway.
- Firm Ride: If you're expecting a smooth ride like a pillow you might find the RAV4’s sporty suspension to be a bit on the firmer side.
Why Choose the RAV4?
The Toyota RAV4 is ideal for families or individuals who need the space and versatility of an SUV without the bulk of a full-size one. Plus it’s one of those cars you can confidently drive on a camping trip or a Costco run – and it’ll handle both with grace.
Toyota Highlander: The Spacious Adventurer
The SUV With Room for Everyone and Everything
For those who need more space and a third row of seating the Toyota Highlander fits the bill. It’s the go-to choice for growing families who need room without going full minivan.
Pros
- Third-Row Seating: The Highlander comfortably seats up to eight passengers.
- Strong V6 Engine: The V6 offers a great balance of power and efficiency.
- Great Resale Value: Toyota’s reliability ensures that the Highlander holds its value well over time.
Cons (With a Smile)
- Rear-Row Comfort: The third row is great for kids or people you don’t like very much (just kidding) but adults might feel a bit cramped.
- Bulky Feel: If you're transitioning from a sedan the Highlander might feel like you're steering a ship – but hey you’ll get used to it.
Why Choose the Highlander?
The Highlander is all about space and comfort. If you have a big family or you need extra cargo space for road trips this SUV is a great companion.
Toyota Tacoma: The Tough Truck
The Pickup That Does It All
The Toyota Tacoma is a fan favorite among pickup truck enthusiasts. Known for its durability off-road capabilities and rugged design it’s the truck you want when you’re looking to do some heavy lifting or take a weekend off-roading trip.
Pros
- Off-Road Capabilities: With the available TRD models the Tacoma can conquer rough terrains with ease.
- Durability: The Tacoma is built like a tank – you could drive this thing for decades.
- Variety of Configurations: From Access Cab to Double Cab you have multiple ways to set up your Tacoma.
Cons (A Little Lighthearted Critique)
- Ride Quality: If you're looking for a smooth comfortable ride you might be a bit surprised – you’ll feel every bump but hey that’s what makes it a real truck right?
- Gas Mileage: Let’s just say you won’t be winning any fuel economy contests but it's the price you pay for having a tough truck.
Why Choose the Tacoma?
The Tacoma is for those who want a reliable workhorse. If you need a truck that can take on tough jobs and still look good doing it the Tacoma’s your best bet.
Toyota Prius: The Eco-Friendly Innovator
The Hybrid That Changed the Game
The Toyota Prius was the pioneer of the hybrid movement and it continues to be a go-to choice for eco-conscious drivers. With its outstanding fuel efficiency and environmentally-friendly design the Prius is perfect for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint.
Pros
- Exceptional Fuel Economy: Up to 58 city / 53 highway MPG making it one of the most fuel-efficient cars on the market.
- Innovative Tech: The Prius comes packed with tech from a sleek touchscreen interface to driver assist features.
- Good Resale Value: Despite the hybrid technology Prius holds its value quite well.
Cons (With Some Humor)
- Unique Design: Some love it some... don’t. The Prius has a love-it-or-hate-it design but hey at least you’ll stand out in a parking lot.
- Acceleration: Let’s say you're not winning any drag races – but if you're driving a Prius you're probably not trying to.
Why Choose the Prius?
The Prius is perfect for those looking for a fuel-efficient vehicle that makes no compromises when it comes to reliability and tech features. It’s the car for the environmentally conscious who still want a practical and affordable ride.
Toyota 4Runner: The Off-Road Beast
The SUV for Adventurers
For the adventurer at heart who wants an SUV that can tackle trails mountains and rough roads the Toyota 4Runner is the top pick. It’s one of those vehicles that hasn't lost its rugged DNA over the years.
Pros
- Off-Road Ready: The 4Runner is equipped to handle the toughest terrains making it an excellent choice for those who live for the outdoors.
- Spacious Interior: There’s plenty of room for passengers and gear alike.
- Durability: The 4Runner is built to last making it a great investment for adventure seekers.
Cons (Light-Hearted Critique)
- Fuel Economy: If you're an off-roader who’s concerned about fuel efficiency... well you’re probably not an off-roader.
- Tech Features: The tech inside can feel a bit dated compared to other SUVs but let’s face it – you're not getting a 4Runner to play with touchscreen controls.
Why Choose the 4Runner?
If you want a vehicle that’s rugged reliable and ready for adventure the Toyota 4Runner is a match made in heaven. It's for the adventurous souls who don't mind trading a little bit of modernity for an old-school SUV that gets the job done.
The Owner’s Insight: Avenue Motors Car Dealership
According to Alex Collantes owner of Avenue Motors NJ “When customers ask me what’s the best Toyota car I tell them it really depends on their lifestyle. Toyota makes reliable cars but the right fit depends on what you're looking for – whether it's something compact like the Corolla or a rugged truck like the Tacoma Toyota has got you covered.”
Final Thoughts: Which Toyota Is Right for You?
When answering “What’s the best Toyota car?” it all boils down to your lifestyle needs and preferences. If you want a reliable all-around sedan the Corolla is your pick. If comfort and a bit more power sound good the Camry won't disappoint. Need an SUV for family trips? The RAV4 or Highlander might be up your alley. For those who crave adventure and toughness the Tacoma and 4Runner are solid choices. And let’s not forget the Prius for all the eco-friendly drivers out there!
To dive even deeper into finding the most reliable Toyota cars head over to Avenue Motors NJ.
In the end your Toyota is an extension of you so take your pick and drive with confidence knowing you’re in one of the best cars on the road!