If you know me, you know that I'm a huge fan of Toyota. My parents had Toyota vehicles when I was growing up so I've become pretty accustomed to them. My first car was a 2005 Toyota Camry LE that we still have today. It's at 160,000 miles with no real issues, just basic maintenance. To be frank, I love Toyota vehicles because they're dependable. There's something about owning a vehicle that I know will start up almost every time without issue.
Is Toyota Actually Reliable?
Although Toyota has a legendary reputation for reliability, are they actually reliable? Before I answer this, it's important to determine what you think of reliability as. I touch on this in my article about J.D. Powers. I personally consider reliability as the long-term dependability of a vehicle's engine and transmission. By this definition, I would say that Toyota vehicles and their counterparts (Scion & Lexus) are more reliable than most other automakers.
This is based on research I've done and my own experiences. Now, that's not to say that lemons don't exist, but your chances of purchasing a Toyota product and having it last you a good while, are high.
However, it's important to remember though that Toyota vehicles are reliable when compared to others in their class. For example, I drove a 2012 Lexus GX 460. It was essentially a luxury SUV that competed with other luxury SUVs, think Land Rover or even Mercedes. When compared to say a Range Rover or a GLE, the Lexus GX will most likely provide fewer issues with basic maintenance. However, the Lexus GX could be less reliable than say a compact vehicle, like the Toyota Corolla. I personally think reliability is relative and it's important to keep that in mind when you hear people mention Toyota reliability.
Toyota Is Boring
With that being said, while I enjoy Toyota vehicles, I understand that some may see them as boring. I don't disagree, but there's a reason for that. Toyota rarely innovates, they usually use the same engine and other components for years. Because of this though, it allows them to perfect and work out any kinks over time.
Plenty of other automakers regularly innovate and release some amazing products, but the reliability factor isn't there sometimes because they haven't had the chance to work out any common issues. So yes, Toyota is boring, but I'm okay with that.
What's Your Preferred Brand?
Even though I'm a Toyota fanboy, I do have an appreciation for other automakers. I think what GM is doing with the new electric Hummer is fascinating. I also love that Hyundai is shaking up the luxury market with the Genesis brand. There are a lot of exciting things happening right now in the auto industry and I can't wait to see what the future holds. It's clear that I like Toyota vehicles, but I'm curious as to what you personally like. What's your preferred brand and why?
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