Toyota continues to swim against the stream in South Africa’s auto market and is one of the few exceptions to the year-on-year decline in aggregate new-vehicle registrations. Toyota has again been crowned SA’s best-selling motor brand, accounting for 22,4 per cent of the market and increasing its sales by one per cent increase over the same period last year. The average for the rest of the market saw a 6,9 percent decline.
The ever popular Hilux still takes the top spot for SA’s best-selling commercial vehicle, clocking 2 773 units in January and it was SA’s best-selling vehicle for 2015. As at the 1st February 2016, only 51 current-generation double cab models are available within the Toyota dealer network before the 8th generation debuts towards the end of February.
The increased popularity of crossovers continues unabated and the unprecedented demand for the RAV4 is tangible proof of this. Benefiting from the release of the all-new 2016 model-year version of the compact SUV, saw RAV4 sales soar to 756 for January, some 410 units ahead of its nearest competitor.
Another model that benefited from a recent refresher is the re-engined and aesthetically-enhanced Toyota Avanza. Sales surged to 555 units in January, putting this modestly-priced MPV at the top of its segment.
According to Calvyn Hamman, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Toyota South Africa Motors: “We’re delighted with the strong start we’ve had in 2016. Clearly being a tried and trusted brand is a strong purchasing factor in this current economy.
“What’s more. with the all-new 8th-generation Hilux waiting in the wings, as well as the forthcoming Fortuner due for release in April, we are confident that we will maintain this positive sales trend.”
Source: Toyota