The Toyota Dealers in the USA form one of the most extensive and reliable automotive networks in the country, representing the Japanese automaker’s commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. As part of Toyota Motor Sales, USA (TMS), these dealerships distribute a wide range of vehicles, from fuel-efficient hybrids to rugged trucks, across all 50 states. Headquartered in Plano, Texas, TMS oversees more than 1,200 Toyota dealerships, making Toyota one of the top-selling brands in the American market. With a focus on sustainability, advanced technology, and community engagement, Toyota Dealers have become synonymous with dependable service and cutting-edge vehicles like the Prius, Camry, and RAV4. In 2024, Toyota achieved record sales in the USA, solidifying its position as a leader in the automotive industry. This network not only drives economic growth but also supports millions of American jobs, from manufacturing to sales.
Historical Foundations: From Humble Beginnings to Market Dominance
The history of Toyota Dealers in the USA dates back to 1957, when Toyota Motor Sales, USA was established in a former Rambler dealership in Hollywood, California. Founded by Shotaro Kamiya, the company’s first president, this marked Toyota‘s bold entry into the American market amid post-war skepticism toward Japanese imports. The initial focus was on the Toyopet Crown, a compact sedan that debuted in 1958 with just 287 units sold that year. Despite early challenges, including criticism for underpowered engines and poor adaptation to U.S. highways, Toyota persisted. By 1965, sales had surged to over 20,000 vehicles annually, thanks to models like the Corona and Corolla, which emphasized affordability and reliability.
The 1970s brought pivotal growth for Toyota Dealers. The oil crisis of 1973 highlighted Toyota‘s fuel-efficient designs, boosting demand and expanding the dealer network. In 1975, Toyota became the top import brand in the USA, surpassing Volkswagen. This era saw the establishment of regional distributors like Southeast Toyota Distributors in Deerfield Beach, Florida, and Gulf States Toyota in Houston, Texas, which handled distribution for multiple states. These independent distributors played a crucial role in tailoring inventory to local preferences, such as emphasizing trucks in the South and hybrids on the West Coast.
The 1980s marked Toyota‘s manufacturing integration in America. In 1986, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, USA (now Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky) was established in Georgetown, Kentucky, producing the first U.S.-built Camry in 1988. This move not only reduced import tariffs but also created thousands of jobs, strengthening ties with Toyota Dealers. By the end of the decade, the dealer count exceeded 1,000, and annual sales topped one million units. The launch of the luxury Lexus brand in 1989, sold through select Toyota Dealers, further elevated the network’s prestige.
Entering the 21st century, Toyota Dealers navigated challenges like the 2008 financial crisis and the 2011 earthquake in Japan, which disrupted supply chains. Under leaders like Jim Lentz, former CEO of TMS, the focus shifted to digital innovation and customer-centric strategies. The 2010s saw the rise of online tools, allowing customers to browse inventory and schedule services remotely. In 2017, TMS relocated to Plano, Texas, centralizing operations and fostering closer collaboration with dealers. Today, with over 1,246 Toyota dealerships as of 2025, the network reflects resilience, adapting to electric vehicle trends and post-pandemic consumer behaviors.
Network Overview: Coverage and Operations Across the States
The Toyota dealership network in the USA is vast and strategically distributed, ensuring accessibility for urban and rural customers alike. California leads with the highest number of locations, followed by Texas, Florida, and New York. Major distributors include Southeast Toyota Distributors, serving five southeastern states with over 175 dealers, and Gulf States Toyota, covering Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Texas. These entities manage logistics, marketing, and training, ensuring uniform standards across the board.
Each Toyota Dealer operates as an independent franchise, adhering to Toyota‘s rigorous guidelines for sales, service, and parts. Facilities typically include showrooms showcasing the latest models, certified pre-owned sections, and state-of-the-art service centers equipped for diagnostics and repairs. Toyota Certified Used Vehicles (TCUV) programs offer warranties up to 7 years or 100,000 miles, enhancing trust. The network employs over 100,000 people, contributing significantly to local economies through taxes and community initiatives like the Toyota USA Foundation, which supports education and environmental causes.
Innovation is key; many dealers integrate Toyota Connected services, providing apps for remote start, vehicle health reports, and navigation. Sustainability efforts include solar-powered facilities and recycling programs, aligning with Toyota‘s goal of carbon neutrality by 2050. During events like hurricanes, dealers often serve as community hubs, offering charging stations and aid.
Top Dealerships: Leaders in Sales and Service
Among the standout Toyota Dealers are those recognized for high volume and exceptional customer service. Longo Toyota in El Monte, California, holds the title of the largest Toyota Dealer in the world, selling over 30,000 vehicles annually. Founded in 1967, it spans 50 acres with amenities like a cafe and children’s play area, earning top ratings for its no-haggle pricing.
In Florida, Toyota of North Miami and Toyota of Hollywood dominate, with the latter tracing roots to the brand’s early days. DCH Toyota in California and Toyota of Dallas in Texas also rank highly, focusing on diverse inventories including hybrids and EVs like the bZ4X. These top performers often receive Toyota President’s Award for excellence in sales and satisfaction, based on customer surveys.
Other notables include Kenosha Toyota in Wisconsin, claiming the #1 volume spot in the state, and Wilde Toyota in West Allis, Wisconsin, known for its extensive used car selection. In the Midwest, Heiser Toyota in Milwaukee and Zeigler Toyota in Racine emphasize community involvement, sponsoring local events and offering flexible financing.
Sales and Market Share: Dominating the American Roads
In 2024, Toyota led U.S. auto sales with approximately 2.3 million vehicles sold, a 3% increase from the previous year, capturing about 15% market share. The RAV4 was the top-selling model, followed by the Camry and Corolla. Hybrids and electrified vehicles accounted for over 30% of sales, reflecting growing demand for eco-friendly options. Lexus, often co-located with Toyota Dealers, added 8% growth, with models like the RX boosting luxury segments.
Factors driving success include competitive pricing, with average transaction prices around $35,000, and incentives like low-interest financing. Despite economic headwinds, Toyota‘s August 2025 sales rose 13.6% to 225,367 units. Globally, Toyota sold 10.8 million vehicles in 2024, maintaining its status as the world’s top automaker.
Services and Customer Experience: Beyond the Sale
Toyota Dealers excel in after-sales support, with services ranging from routine maintenance to advanced repairs. ToyotaCare provides complimentary maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles on new vehicles, including oil changes and tire rotations. Service centers use genuine Toyota Parts, ensuring longevity and performance.
Customer experience is prioritized through digital tools like My Toyota app for service history and how-to videos. Feedback from platforms like DealerRater highlights positive interactions, though some report inconsistencies. Toyota addresses this via training programs and the SmartPath online buying platform, allowing seamless transactions from home.
Initiatives like Toyota Connected North America enhance telematics, offering safety features and personalized support. Dealers focus on inclusivity, with multilingual staff and accessible facilities.
Community Impact and Future Outlook
Toyota Dealers contribute to communities through philanthropy, such as disaster relief and STEM education grants. Looking ahead, the network is gearing up for electrification, with more EV charging stations and models like the Prius Prime.
Conclusion: A Pillar of Automotive Excellence
The Toyota Dealers in the USA embody innovation, reliability, and customer focus. From 1957 origins to today’s expansive network, they drive Toyota‘s success, shaping the future of mobility.