Which Toyota models are manufactured in Japan?
As a trusted auto service provider with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I often get asked about the origins of various car models. Toyota, being one of the most popular car manufacturers globally, has production facilities in many countries. However, some Toyota models are still manufactured in Japan, maintaining the brand's legacy of precision engineering and quality craftsmanship. In this article, we’ll explore which Toyota models are currently produced in Japan and what makes them stand out.
Why Are Some Toyota Models Still Made in Japan?
Toyota has a strong manufacturing presence in Japan due to its historical roots and the high standards of production associated with Japanese factories. Models produced in Japan often benefit from advanced manufacturing techniques, rigorous quality control, and access to cutting-edge technology. Additionally, some models are designed specifically for the Japanese domestic market (JDM) or are exported globally from Japan due to their unique features.
Current Toyota Models Manufactured in Japan
As of 2025, the following Toyota models are known to be manufactured in Japan:
- Toyota Land Cruiser: A legendary SUV known for its durability and off-road capabilities, the Land Cruiser is primarily manufactured in Toyota's Japanese plants.
- Toyota Prius: The hybrid pioneer, the Prius, is produced in Japan and exported worldwide, showcasing Toyota's leadership in hybrid technology.
- Toyota 4Runner: This rugged SUV, popular for its reliability and performance, is also manufactured in Japan.
- Toyota Supra: A sports car icon, the Supra is built in collaboration with BMW but assembled in Japan, ensuring top-notch quality.
- Toyota Alphard and Vellfire: These luxury minivans are designed for the Japanese market but are also exported to select regions.
- Toyota Century: A high-end luxury sedan, the Century is exclusively manufactured in Japan and represents the pinnacle of Toyota's craftsmanship.
These models are produced in Japan to maintain their high standards of quality and to cater to specific market demands. Many of these vehicles are exported globally, making them accessible to customers who value Japanese engineering.
How to Identify a Toyota Manufactured in Japan
If you’re curious about whether your Toyota was made in Japan, here are some tips to help you identify its origin:
- Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): If the VIN starts with the letter "J," it indicates that the vehicle was manufactured in Japan.
- Look at the Manufacturer's Label: This label, usually found on the driver’s side door frame, will specify the country of manufacture.
- Consult the Owner’s Manual or Dealership: These resources can provide detailed information about your vehicle’s production location.
Knowing where your car was manufactured can give you insights into its build quality and heritage, especially for models with a strong reputation for Japanese craftsmanship.
Conclusion
Toyota continues to produce several of its iconic models in Japan, ensuring they meet the highest standards of quality and performance. Whether you’re considering a rugged SUV like the Land Cruiser or a hybrid pioneer like the Prius, these Japanese-made vehicles are a testament to Toyota's commitment to excellence. If you’re in the market for a Toyota or need expert advice on maintaining your vehicle, feel free to reach out to Kevin's Autos for professional guidance and service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are any Toyotas assembled in the USA?
Clockwise from top left: The Toyota Corolla, Avalon, Camry, and Highlander- all models made in the USA. Clockwise from top left: The Toyota RAV4, Matrix, Sienna, and Tundra- also models made in the USA. Currently, Toyota manufactures 11 customer favorite vehicles in their North American facilities.
Where are Camrys made in the USA?
Georgetown, Kentucky
Toyota broke ground in Georgetown, Kentucky, in May of 1986, and two years later (May 1988), produced its first Camry. Since then, more than 14 million vehicles have rolled off Toyota's assembly lines in Kentucky, where full-time employment is 9,950.
Which Toyotas are made in China?
China
- FAW Toyota. Tianjin – Allion, bZ3, Corolla, Corolla Cross, Crown Kluger, IZOA, Vios XP150, Granvia, Harrier. Chengdu – Coaster, Avalon, Land Cruiser Prado. Changchun – RAV4.
- GAC Toyota, Guangzhou – bZ4X, Camry, C-HR, Frontlander, Wildlander, Highlander, Levin, Sienna, Venza, Yaris XP150.
Which Toyotas are made in Japan?
Several Toyota models are produced in Japan, including the Land Cruiser, Prius, Supra, Crown, 86 and Alphard.
Is tacoma made in Japan?
The Tacoma TRD Pro Series is assembled at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing de Baja California plant in Baja, California or Toyota Motor Mexico plant in Guanajuato, Mexico. The Tundra TRD Pro Series is assembled at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas plant in San Antonio, Texas.
How do I know if my Toyota is Japan or USA built?
Toyota VINs starting with "1", "4", or "5" represent vehicles assembled in the United States, VINs beginning with "2" indicate vehicles assembled in Canada, and vehicles with VINs beginning with "3" were assembled in Mexico. Vehicles with VINs that start with "J" were produced in Japan.
Is RAV4 made in Japan?
But there's no question the Japanese craftsmanship. Comes into play to make that RAV4 one of the best built vehicle.
Are Toyota Highlanders made in Japan?
However, the Corolla was built there instead, and the Highlander is being built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana in Princeton, Indiana, from the 2010 model year onward for a majority of North America, replacing Tundra production.
How do I know if my car is made in Japan?
Check the Window Sticker
For the first category, a typical car might say “50%,” meaning that half of its components come from the U.S. For the second, a car may say “Japan: 20%,” which reveals that Japan is a significant source of around a fifth of the car's parts.
Are all Toyota 4Runners made in Japan?
All 4Runners have been built in Japan at Toyota's plant in Tahara, Aichi, or at the Hino Motors (a Toyota subsidiary) plant in Hamura. The name "4Runner" was created by copywriter Robert Nathan with the Saatchi & Saatchi advertising company as a play on the term "forerunner".
