What was the first Toyota model sold in the US?
The first Toyota model sold in the United States was the Toyopet Crown, with initial imports arriving in 1957 and sales to American buyers beginning in 1958.
Toyota’s entry into the American market occurred in the postwar era as the company sought new growth opportunities beyond Japan. The early U.S. operation used the Toyopet branding and a modest dealer network, a strategy that would gradually evolve as the brand adapted to American tastes and logistics.
Key milestones in the U.S. introduction of Toyota
Below is a concise timeline of the pivotal steps that brought the first Toyota models to U.S. roads.
- 1936 — Toyota produces its first passenger car in Japan, the Model AA, laying groundwork for future exports.
- 1957 — Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. (TMS) is established to handle import, marketing, and service in the United States. The first Toyopet Crown sedans are shipped to the U.S. for evaluation and dealer preparation.
- 1958 — The Toyopet Crown goes on sale to U.S. customers, marking the first commercial Toyota model offered in the market. Early sales use the Toyopet branding and a limited dealer network.
- 1960s — Toyota gradually expands its U.S. presence, shifting branding toward Toyota and introducing more modern, reliable models. The late 1960s see the launch of the Corolla, which helps redefine Toyota's U.S. reputation.
The early run demonstrated how Toyota's engineering and practical design could meet U.S. consumer needs, while also highlighting the challenges of entering a mature market with unfamiliar product configurations. That experience informed Toyota's approach in the years that followed, culminating in a broad lineup that would transform the automaker's global footprint.
Legacy and turning points
From the 1950s onward, Toyota learned to adapt its vehicles to U.S. roads, weather, and expectations. The Crown's initial reception underscored the importance of suitable power, ride comfort, and dealer support—lessons that shaped Toyota's branding and product development for decades to come.
Branding evolution and market impact
During the early years, Toyota used the Toyopet name in the United States. As consumer feedback and sales evolved, the company gradually shifted toward the Toyota branding, especially with the late 1960s additions like the Corolla, which helped establish Toyota as a major player in the American market.
Summary
The first Toyota model sold in the United States was the Toyopet Crown, marking the start of Toyota's long and transformative journey in America. Imports began in 1957, with sales to the public starting in 1958. The experience influenced Toyota's branding, product strategy, and global growth, ultimately leading to a diverse lineup that reshaped the company's position in the automotive world.
What was the first Toyota model sold in the USA?
Toyopet Crown sedans
In 1950, Toyota established Toyota Motor Sales Co. in Japan. By 1957, Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. was founded in Hollywood, California. Sales in the U.S. commenced in 1958 with 287 Toyopet Crown sedans and one Land Cruiser.
Did the Camry or Corolla come first?
First there was the Toyota Crown in 1955, then the Corona in 1957. The crown theme continued with the launch of the Toyota Tiara in 1960, the Corolla in 1966 and the Celica Camry in 1979.
What is the oldest Toyota dealership in the US?
The oldest Toyota dealership in the U.S. is a point of contention, but the first dealership was established as part of Toyota's first US sales operation on October 31, 1957, in Hollywood, California. While Toyota of Hollywood now exists at a different location, the original facility was located at 6000 Hollywood Boulevard and served as the headquarters for Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A.
- Original location: The initial dealership was located at 6000 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California, in a former Rambler dealership that also shared a wall with a Ford dealership.
- Establishment: It was established on October 31, 1957, as part of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., which was also founded that day.
- Modern dealership: Toyota of Hollywood is the current name of the dealership at the original location, though a different entity from the original 1957 operation, according to Hemmings. The original dealership operated more as a showroom and headquarters.
- Current location: The modern Toyota of Hollywood is now at 6920 W Sunset Blvd.
When did Toyota start importing to the USA?
The company began exporting vehicles to the United States in 1957, starting with the Toyopet Crown. Although the initial reception was lukewarm, Toyota learned valuable lessons and adapted its products to suit the preferences of American consumers.
