Our first Japanese car was a 76 Datsun 710 wagon in 'Pewter', followed by an 82 Honda Civic wagon....also Silver variant. The Datsun was OK (we had a 3 year old and needed more space), but we really the Civic wagon. It had a rake-adjustable rear seat which could be fixed in 90* vertical position......providing a HUGE amount of cargo space (relative to total length) in the 'way back'....as the kids called it

Ever since that time, we have done this when leaving the Japanese stable for our family car:
*86 Dodge Caravan=lemon (3 yrs of pain and warranty repairs)
*02 Passat 1.8t Wagon=lemon (lasted 4 frustrating years)

In spite of my Teutonic heritage, I doubt that I will ever again buy a German car. Too expensive to buy and maintain.....even though they are often magnificent machines (at least the BMW). Doubtful that I'll ever own an American car either. End of rant....

 

For those who don't want to "sign up" with the Times, you can use this link:

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/18/magazine...serland&emc=rss

Personally I can appreciate what Toyota has accomplished in their efforts as pointed out in the piece. On the other hand, it's well known they talk out of both sides of their mouths and the writer hit on that as well. They certainly are not the 'jolly green' company they want everyone to think they are.

In the past year or so I have tested their Camary, Lexus IS250, IS350 & CS or something like that. I honestly wasn't impressed with any of them. I was impressed with the Lexus dealership, which offered it's customers everything but a fully stocked bar.

 

I am a Toyota fan. It is too bad they do not make an affordable sports car, or any that is imported to the US. Maybe with the induction to NASCAR they may jump into the sports market again. The Supra was an amazing car, the MR2/Spyder not so amazing but different with its mid engine placement. They never sold that well as they did not push them in the market, similar to Honda and the S.
Most of the advertising goes into the cars that sell large volumes. Civic, Camry, etc....

 

I agree, the Supra was a great car; I only wish I could have afforded one when they were new. I tested one and loved it but things like family budget got in the way.