Toyota’s 2025 lineup serves up the usual mix of reliability champions and puzzling head-scratchers. With over 100 models rolling off production lines, not every Toyota earns that legendary dependability badge—some are more like that friend who promises to help you move but shows up with a Smart car.
10. Avoid: Toyota Corolla Cross (Exterior)
The Corolla Cross feels like Toyota’s attempt at a crossover designed by committee—and that committee forgot to invite anyone who actually drives. The standard 169-hp engine paired with a CVT transmission creates more noise than a toddler’s tantrum while delivering all the acceleration of a three-legged race. Interior quality screams “rental car special” with hard plastics everywhere and a dashboard that’s about as inspiring as elevator music.
Toyota Corolla Cross (Interior)
Road noise intrudes like an unwanted dinner guest, especially on highways where you’ll hear every pebble the tires encounter. The rear seats don’t fold flat, the cargo floor resembles a topographical map, and second-row passengers get legroom that would make airline executives proud. The hybrid version does rescue some dignity with better efficiency and refinement, but it’s like putting premium tires on a shopping cart.
9. Avoid: Toyota Sequoia (Exterior)
Toyota’s full-size SUV went from reliable workhorse to expensive question mark faster than your ex changed their relationship status. The new hybrid-only powertrain ditched the bulletproof V8 for a system that’s received mixed reviews from owners who expected Toyota’s usual refinement. Cargo space shrunk compared to the previous generation, which is like ordering a large pizza and getting a personal pan.
Toyota Sequoia (Interior)
The price tag now competes with luxury rivals while delivering a decidedly non-luxury experience. For families who need maximum space and proven reliability, the Sequoia asks you to pay more for less—never a winning formula.
8. Avoid: Toyota RAV4 (Exterior)
The RAV4 still sells like hotcakes at a Sunday brunch, but age is showing in ways that aren’t graceful. While efficiency and reliability remain strong, newer competitors have leapfrogged Toyota’s compact SUV in cabin quality, technology integration, and overall refinement. The interior noise levels are higher than most rivals, creating a less serene driving environment.
Toyota RAV4 (Interior)
Starting prices have crept upward while value-conscious buyers can find better-equipped alternatives elsewhere. The RAV4 coasts on reputation rather than pushing boundaries—it’s the automotive equivalent of a band playing their greatest hits tour.
7. Avoid: Toyota Highlander (Exterior)
Three-row SUVs should accommodate actual humans, not just theoretical passengers. The Highlander’s third row works fine if your family consists entirely of kindergarteners, but anyone over 4 feet tall will stage a rebellion. Average cargo space means you’re constantly playing Tetris with family gear, while competitors offer more practical utility.
Toyota Highlander (Interior)
The turbo four-cylinder engine replaced the smooth V6, bringing less refinement and more vibration to the driving experience. The hybrid version redeems itself with impressive 35 mpg fuel economy, but most buyers will feel shortchanged by the overall package.
6. Avoid: Toyota Crown (Exterior)
The Crown exists in that automotive purgatory between practical and premium, succeeding at neither. Rear seat and cargo space trail the Camry while the price tag reaches toward Lexus territory without delivering luxury amenities. The positioning makes about as much sense as opening an ice cream shop in Antarctica.
Toyota Crown (Interior)
With significant overlap to the Camry Hybrid’s capabilities, the Crown feels redundant in Toyota’s lineup—an expensive solution to a problem that doesn’t exist.
5. Best: Toyota Camry (Exterior)
The 2025 Camry underwent a complete makeover that would make reality TV producers jealous. Modern exterior styling finally catches up with the times, while upgraded interior materials transform the cabin from corporate beige to actually appealing. Toyota packed in top-tier safety features and connectivity options that don’t require a computer science degree to operate.
Toyota Camry (Interior)
Passenger and cargo space remain class-leading, because some things shouldn’t change. The hybrid system delivers over 50 mpg—numbers that make Prius owners do double-takes—while the $28,400 starting price keeps accountants happy. J.D. Power consistently ranks the Camry highest for dependability in its segment, proving that boring can be beautiful when it never breaks down.
4. Best: Toyota Land Cruiser (Exterior)
The legendary Land Cruiser returned from hiatus with a complete redesign that balances rugged capability with modern luxury. The new 250 series maintains Toyota’s off-road DNA while adding hybrid efficiency that previous generations couldn’t touch. Classic hardware meets advanced electronics in ways that actually make sense.
Toyota Land Cruiser (Interior)
Pricing became more reasonable compared to the outgoing model’s inflated costs, bringing Toyota’s most capable SUV back within reach of mere mortals. Anyone who needs genuine off-road ability wrapped in refined packaging will find the Land Cruiser delivers on both promises.
3. Best: Toyota Tacoma (Exterior)
The new-generation Tacoma proves that midsize trucks can evolve without losing their soul. Enhanced powertrains include a hybrid option that maintains truck capabilities while improving efficiency. The modernized cabin features an upscale interior and large infotainment display that doesn’t look like it time-traveled from 2010.
Toyota Tacoma (Interior)
Off-road variants offer industry-leading capability with specialized trims that serious adventurers demand. J.D. Power ranks the Tacoma top for dependability in the midsize truck class—critical when your truck needs to haul both weekend toys and Monday deadlines.
2. Best: Toyota GR Corolla (Exterior)
In a world where most manufacturers abandoned the affordable performance segment, the GR Corolla stands alone like the last dance partner at prom. Its unique all-wheel-drive system and 300-hp turbocharged three-cylinder engine deliver WRC-inspired thrills at accessible prices. Critics consistently praise its handling dynamics and driving engagement.
Toyota GR Corolla (Interior)
Performance enthusiasts finally have an option that won’t require selling vital organs. The GR Corolla represents Toyota at its most passionate, proving the company still remembers how to build cars that spark genuine emotion.
1. Best: Toyota Sienna (Exterior)
Family haulers don’t get more practical than the Sienna, which accommodates all three rows with actual comfort and provides over 100 cubic feet of cargo volume. Standard hybrid power delivers 36 mpg combined—best-in-class efficiency that makes long road trips affordable. Available all-wheel drive sets the Sienna apart in the hybrid minivan space.
Toyota Sienna (Interior)
J.D. Power ranks the Sienna number one for dependability among minivans, because family transportation demands absolute reliability. When soccer practice conflicts with dance recitals, the Sienna ensures you’ll make both without drama.
