Toyota was South Africa’s top seller for the fourth consecutive month in 2016, as demand for the all-new Hilux and Fortuner helped the country’s favourite car brand head off its nearest competitor in the retail race by no less than 28 per cent. Toyota recorded 8,791 sales in April; a lead of 2,529 units over its nearest rival – this equates to a total market share of 21,8 per cent.
The new-generation Hilux in its first full month of sales found 3,221 new homes; more than 800 units ahead of the second-placed model on the bestseller’s list. Hilux currently enjoys a 26,4 % share of the LCV segment.
As Calvyn Hamman, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Toyota South Africa Motors pointed out, these strong sales reflect the continued trust South African car buyers have in the Toyota brand, especially during these economically challenging times.
“After just two months in the market, the new Hilux is clearly resonating with buyers who appreciate not just the refreshed styling, leading technology and superb performance offered by the latest range, but also the intrinsic value that’s inherent in every single Hilux, including proven reliability and durability coupled with bullet-proof residuals,” Hamman said.
Another star performer was the freshly-minted Fortuner with a segment-leading 846 sales – a figure it notched up in just 14 retail days.
“Completely renewed, the all-new seven-seater Fortuner is the ultimate all-rounder – combining top-of-the-class off-road credentials with outstanding refinement and styling. It’s a winner and its return to the sales podium should come as no surprise,” concluded Hamman.
Also lifting Toyota to an industry-topping tally in April were Quantum with a segment best of 1,148 sales as well as laudable contributions coming from Etios (785), Corolla/Auris/Quest (1054), Avanza (321) and RAV4 (291). Another notable is the newly-launched Landcruiser 200 – 128 units were retailed during the month while demand remains at an insatiable high for this premium SUV.
On the Lexus front, demand is also encouraging for the marque’s compact SUV – the extrovert NX. It’s a consistent performer and for the month of April, the luxury brand shifted 32 units.
The shining light in the Hino range was the 300 Series/Toyota Dyna which recorded a category-leading 149 unit sales in the medium commercial vehicle segment.