In a market constrained by a multitude of factors, most notably soaring fuel costs coupled with volatile commodity prices, Toyota has once again bucked the trend by posting significant growth to take a commanding share of 27.6%. In the month of September, 12,704 units were retailed, equating to an increase of 471 vehicles sold. This also reflects a major improvement in last year’s performance when Toyota managed to shift 12,059 units for a 25.1% share of the new car market.
Toyota thus convincingly ‘leads the way’ in both passenger and LCV sales, taking market shares of 24.1% (7,161) and 39.7% (5,228) respectively.
With reference to the latter, Hilux alone with 3,249 sales, takes a sizeable 25.5% slice of the LCV pie. Of interest is the fact that Double Cabs accounts for more than 50% (1,645) of Hilux sales. Hiace on 1,462 units retailed, is another big hitter for Toyota, while the Land Cruiser 79 notched up another consistent performance with 325 sales.
The locally produced Corolla Cross is the focal model for Toyota in the passenger market, once again achieving podium with 2,259 units retailed. Other notables in the passenger space include Starlet (1,247), the ever-popular Fortuner (893), as well as the newer small car offerings in the guise of the Vitz, Urban Cruiser and Rumion with 581, 561 and 426 apiece. The best-selling model in the Lexus stable is the recently launched NX with 33 units retailed.
At the opposite end of the scale, sister brand Hino plays a leading role in the Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicle market with the 300 Series garnering 123 sales, while 60 units of the larger 500 Series were shifted in September.
Parts’ supply for the month came in just over 1.8 million pieces distributed locally and a further 272 290 pieces exported to foreign markets.
Commenting on the outstanding September results is Toyota South Africa Motors Senior Vice President for Sales and Marketing, Leon Theron: “In a market as challenging as ours, reaching these significant sales milestones is only achievable through team effort and I feel truly honoured to be a part of this dynamic organisation. Everyone – big or small – plays their part and I am especially grateful to the dealer network that consistently delivers good results month after month. And, of course, our loyal customers – their continued support makes it all worthwhile.”
