andrewbmoore: In summary: I need the highest quality engine air filter that gives the best fuel economy and engine protection.

I went to my local auto parts store to pick up a standard air filter (FRAM I believe) and noticed that the filter was very papery where as the stock Toyota filter was much thicker and "cottony".

rburt07:
I would say the Purolator would be a great choice. I had a toyota parts man once tell me that Purolator manufactures the Toyota filters.

I once read the Toyota air filter is a three stage filter. The filter has layers for, coarse, medium and fine particles. These are sandwiched together to make up the element.

We have a windy season here in Southern New Mexico during mid March to mid April. During this time the winds on some days can gust to 45 miles per hour. Here in the desert that can mean lots of sand in the air.

I don't want any dirt or sand in my engine to scratch the cylinder walls or work it's way into the oil.