MINI MOTORING
Toyota Prius racks up awards
The Toyota Prius has been named the Best Family Car in the UK Car of the Year Awards 2017 – proof, its manufacturers say, that the successful hybrid has evolved into a car that ranks as Britain's best all-rounder: smart, practical, spacious, reliable and genuinely fun to drive.
The independent award judges, numbering some of Britain’s most experienced and bestrespected motoring journalists, had wide-ranging praise for the multi-award-winning fourthgeneration Prius, which was launched last year. Toyota are pleased with their success in transforming Prius’s dynamic performance and its driver appeal.
John Challen, Managing Director of the UK Car of the Year Awards, declared: “The Prius story continues – The shift from ‘hybrid’ car to mainstream is complete.”
Toyota and Hilux make history in 2016
Toyota’s “tougherer” new Hilux has made history by achieving sales leadership in South Africa for the 44th time in the past 47 years, notching up a 2016 retail total of 35 428 – 3 000 units ahead of its nearest competitor.
By recording 3 074 sales for the month of December, the iconic Hilux comfortably edged out its closest rival by 409 units.
Toyota was also the only manufacturer to scoop an additional five segment bests for the month: C-segment – Corolla (614 units); Compact MPV – Avanza (271 units); SUV - Fortuner (958 units); People Carrier – Quantum (916 units); Specialist Off-Roader – Land Cruiser 79 pickup (185 units). Other notable sales performances were recorded by: Etios – 597 units; RAV4 – 377 units; Prado – 99 units; Land Cruiser 200 – 80 units.
And in the quest for overall sales leadership, Toyota (assisted by the Lexus and Hino brands) was once again the top choice for South African motorists, shifting a chart-topping 117 071 vehicles in 2016, which equates to a market share of 21.4 per cent.
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) also scooped the Sunday Times Top Brand award as the best regarded car brand in the Consumer category in 2016. It is the second time that TSAM has won an award in this category. Compiled by Stephen Penney
@penneyspix sport@grocotts.co.za