By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

Many things have changed in the two decades plus since that initial RAV4, not least the RAV4 itself, which enters its fifth generation with the 2019 model. It reinvents itself with a bigger, more fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine; a more rugged appearance especially with the Adventure trim level; more driver assist technology; and with a new hybrid powertrain that feels quicker than the gas-only version.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

There's still a market for large comfortable mainstream sedans with stretch-out room for adults, a pleasant ride, quiet interior, decent gas mileage, and acceptable performance. But it's becoming harder to find these cars, which not long ago existed on every manufacturer's new-car lot. One of the best remaining sedans is the Toyota Avalon that was redesigned for the 2018 model year. It's a handsome vehicle with most of the creature comforts and safety technology available today.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

The 2018 Toyota RAV4 represents the fourth generation's sixth and final year since it was completely redesigned for 2013. The current edition has received enhancements over the years with a major freshening in 2016, adding extra safety features and updating technology, but it's largely the same utility-focused vehicle it has been since its inception.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

Toyota has sold more than 10 million Corolla compact cars over the years, bringing peace of mind to countless families — reliable transportation that in addition to dependability offers excellent gas mileage and above average resale value. But for the most part Corollas have been as exciting as — well, let's say, the kitchen refrigerator.

By David Finkelstein

Toyota is reaching out to a wider customer base with the introduction of the sporty Camry XSE model for 2018. The XSE trim level is loaded with welcomed and numerous factory extras that help to raise the bar with both the car's curb appeal, its performance and connection to drivers wanting a glitzy four-door automobile.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

If you think the Toyota's new small crossover, the C-HR, is a bit too funky looking to wear the Toyota nameplate, there's a reason. The C-HR was designated for the Scion brand, but that plan had to be abandoned when Toyota terminated Scion last year.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

The Toyota Camry has been the most popular passenger vehicle in America for 18 of the past 20 years with a formula of unmatched reliability, excellent resale value and anonymous styling both inside and out, styling designed to offend no one. This has led the Camry to earn — whether deserved or not — the reputation of being an appliance, unflatteringly described as automotive wallpaper; with an unemotional feel, a car that takes you from point A to point B with no drama.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

For several years the mid-sized Highlander crossover SUV has been a sales juggernaut for Toyota. And Toyota has apparently hit the right notes with a refreshed 2017 Highlander featuring an engine upgrade and a new 8-speed automatic transmission. It's fourth in total sales at Toyota through the first seven months of the year trailing only the Camry and Corolla sedans and the RAV4 compact crossover. The upgrades and styling tweaks assigned to the 2017 Highlander have paid off — sales are heading toward the 200,000 mark for the year.