But GM retook the sales crown in 2011 when Toyota's factories were slowed by an earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

NPR: GM 1Q Global Sales Rise 3.6 Percent To Beat VW

But GM retook the sales crown in 2011, when Toyota's production was hurt by the Japanese disaster.

NPR: Former GM Executive Tapped For Toyota Board

Their market share is rising in the United States and Toyota has more or less stolen GM's crown as No. 1.

NPR: Nissan's Pivo Car Monitors Driver Mood

But despite several difficult years, Toyota has returned to the top, regaining the crown as the world's No. 1-selling auto maker for the first time in two years in 2012.

WSJ: Toyota Overhauls Management

Toyota raised eyebrows in the Japanese market recently by selling a hot-pink version of its Crown sedan, long seen as targeting the staid establishment.

NPR: AP Interview: Toyota Chief Stresses Safe Growth