Timeless Icons And Retired Machines
Decade after decade, Toyota has delivered machines that are reliable, perform well, and have a distinct personality. Some of those creations remain strong fixtures on today's roads, adapting to changing demands without losing their essence. Others concluded their production runs, yet their influence can still be seen in modern automotive culture. Before we reveal the retired icons, let's look at the current models that have shaped the company's story.
1. Tacoma (1995–Present)
Replacing the Toyota Pickup in North America, the Tacoma quickly became the best-selling midsize truck in the United States. Its TRD variants attract off-road enthusiasts, while U.S. and Mexico production keeps supply strong. The car is named after Mount Tacoma, the tallest mountain in Washington State.
2. Corolla (1966–Present)
The Toyota Corolla has earned its place in history as the world's most-produced car, with more than 50 million units finding homes across the globe. Built in factories from the U.S. to Brazil, it's celebrated for delivering the kind of reliability and fuel efficiency that keeps drivers loyal for decades.
3. Land Cruiser (1951–Present)
First conceived for military service, the Toyota Land Cruiser quickly evolved into a vehicle trusted by explorers, aid workers, and adventurers alike. Its reputation for conquering unforgiving terrain has made it indispensable to UN missions.
4. Hilux (1968–Present)
Few trucks inspire the same confidence as the Hilux, a model whose toughness is the stuff of legend. From surviving televised torture tests to serving in challenging civilian and conflict zones, it continues to prove its worth in markets worldwide. However, it has never been sold in the United States.
5. Camry (1982–Present)
In the fiercely competitive midsize sedan market, the Camry has long held a leadership position in the U.S. Its enduring appeal comes from a blend of refined performance, comfort, and strong safety credentials. This combination, strengthened by the hybrid variant introduced in 2007, broadened its loyal customer base.
6. 4Runner (1984–Present)
The 4Runner delivers the ruggedness of a truck with the practicality of an SUV, a balance that has earned it a devoted following among outdoor enthusiasts. With features like crawl control and locking differentials, it thrives on demanding trails while remaining a reliable partner for everyday driving needs.
7. Prius (1997–Present)
The Prius reshaped the automotive world as the first mass-produced hybrid that made efficiency mainstream. The car’s futuristic look and eco-focused image won global attention, driving sales past five million by the 2010s and securing its place as a green technology pioneer.
8. Sienna (1997–Present)
Named after the Italian city, the Sienna earned a rare distinction as the only AWD minivan in America for many years. Its shift to hybrid-only powertrains in the 2020s reinforced Toyota's commitment to efficiency without compromising everyday practicality.
9. Tundra (1999–Present)
The Tundra competes directly with Detroit's top trucks, as Toyota's first full-size pickup built in the United States. Powered by a V8 and known for its towing muscle, it famously hauled the Space Shuttle Endeavour, cementing its reputation for unmatched strength.
10. Sequoia (2000–Present)
Sharing its foundation with the Tundra, the Sequoia delivers the power and capacity expected from a full-size SUV. Its spacious interior seats up to eight, while recent hybrid updates show Toyota's ability to blend modern efficiency with the rugged performance drivers expect.
Now, let’s move to the retired Toyotas that left their mark on automotive history.
1. FJ Cruiser (2006–2014)
The FJ Cruiser channeled the spirit of the classic FJ40 with bold retro styling and serious off-road skills. Developed in California, it stood out with its white roof and vibrant colors, gaining a loyal following that unfortunately only grew after production ended.
Greg Gjerdingen from Willmar, USA on Wikimedia
2. Celica (1970–2006)
Over seven generations, the Celica gave drivers an affordable entry into the sports car world. The car’s sharp looks and rally-winning pedigree made it a star in the '80s and '90s. Additionally, the GT-Four trims added turbocharged, all-wheel-drive excitement to the lineup.
3. MR2 (1984–2007)
The MR2 offered a mid-engine thrill in an accessible package, with three generations of coupes and convertibles. Lightweight and agile, this one became a favorite for tuning and track days and earned admiration as a budget-friendly way to enjoy true sports car dynamics.
4. Tercel (1978–1999)
Toyota's first front-wheel-drive model, the Tercel, delivered simple engineering that buyers trusted for two decades. Offered as a sedan, hatchback, or wagon, it balanced affordability with reliability and established a global footprint before making way for newer small cars like the Echo.
5. Matrix (2002–2014)
Created alongside the Pontiac Vibe, the Matrix gave younger buyers a stylish alternative to sedans. Its hatchback design brought practicality, while optional AWD and manual transmission added rare versatility. Underneath, it shared the engine and chassis with the Toyota Corolla.
6. Paseo (1991–1999)
Sporty styling and lightweight helped the Paseo appeal to younger drivers seeking affordability with personality. Available as a coupe or rare cabriolet, it also appeared in Japan as the Cynos with livelier tuning. Falling demand for small coupes ultimately ended its production.
7. Supra Mk4 (1993–2002)
Few engines inspire as much respect as the 2JZ-GTE, the heart of the Supra Mk4. Its twin-turbo setup delivered near-supercar speed and iron-clad reliability. A feature in The Fast and the Furious secured its tuner legend before the Supra name returned in 2019 under a new model.
8. Cressida (1976–1992)
Luxury aspirations met rear-wheel-drive performance in the Cressida, a sedan that previewed the future Lexus brand. Its smooth inline-six engines and Supra-shared platform attracted enthusiasts and tuners alike. The model's retirement cleared the way for Lexus sedans like the ES to take center stage.
9. Echo (1999–2005)
City drivers found the Echo's fuel-efficient design and upright cabin a winning combination. Offered in sedan or hatchback form, it balanced budget-friendly pricing with generous space. Eventually replaced by the Toyota Yaris, the Echo remained a go-to choice for first-time buyers.
10. Avalon (1994–2022)
Large dimensions and refined comfort make the Avalon Toyota's flagship sedan in North America. Produced in the U.S. and in China for local markets, it delivered a premium experience without luxury-brand pricing. A shift toward SUVs eventually brought its nearly three-decade run to an end.
