Toyota UK A Journey of Success
Published Date: 24th May 2023
Toyota in the UK: A History of Success and Popular Models
For over 50 years, Toyota has been a significant player in the UK automotive market, earning a solid reputation for quality, reliability, and fuel efficiency. This article explores the modern history of Toyota in the UK, highlighting key events, popular models, and the reasons behind their success. Whether you're a potential Toyota buyer or simply interested in the brand's evolution, read on to discover the rich background of Toyota in the UK.
Early Years and Establishing Reputation
In 1965, Toyota introduced the Crown as its first model in the UK, impressing business executives with its quality and reliability. The launch of the Corolla in 1966 further solidified Toyota's presence, and became the best-selling model in the UK due to its affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency.
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Expansion and Manufacturing in the UK
In the 1970s and 1980s, Toyota expanded its range of models in the UK to cater to the diverse preferences of UK drivers. The company launched the Carina, the Celica, and the MR2, which all became popular choices for UK drivers. Toyota also began to manufacture cars in the UK in the 1980s, with the opening of a plant in Derbyshire. This helped to reduce the cost of Toyota cars in the UK, making them even more affordable for UK drivers.
The opening of the Derbyshire plant marked a significant milestone in Toyota's commitment to the UK market. Situated in Burnaston, Derbyshire, the manufacturing site was Toyota's inaugural production plant outside of Japan. Since its inauguration in 1989, over 3 million Toyota cars have rolled off the production line. Today, the plant proudly employs over 2,500 people, among the world's most technologically advanced car manufacturing plants.
The Derbyshire plant has significantly influenced Toyota's success in the UK. The plant has helped to reduce the cost of Toyota cars, making them more affordable for UK drivers. The plant has also helped to create jobs and boost the economy in the UK.
Toyota is committed to the UK market, and the Derbyshire plant is a testament to that commitment. The plant is a major asset to the UK economy, helping to make Toyota cars more affordable and accessible to UK drivers.
Here are some additional details about the Derbyshire plant:
- The plant is 1.2 million square meters in size.
- It has a production capacity of 250,000 cars per year.
- It produces a variety of Toyota models, including the Corolla, Yaris, Auris, Camry, and Prius.
- The factory boasts state-of-the-art equipment, complete with computer-controlled machines and robots.
- The plant is highly efficient, and it has a low environmental impact.
The Derbyshire plant is a major asset to the UK, helping to make Toyota cars more affordable and accessible to UK drivers. Toyota is committed to the UK market, and the Derbyshire plant is a testament to that commitment.
Innovation and Hybrid Leadership
In the 1990s and 2000s, Toyota continued to innovate and introduce successful models. The Yaris, Avensis, and RAV4 gained popularity among UK drivers. Toyota's venture into hybrid technology resulted in the 1997 launch of the Prius, the world's first mass-produced hybrid car. This groundbreaking vehicle showcased Toyota's commitment to sustainability and established them as a leader in hybrid technology.
The Prius was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish Toyota as a leader in hybrid technology. The Prius is powered by an all-electric motor and a petrol engine, offering excellent fuel efficiency and low emissions. Environmental groups and consumers alike have praised the Prius, which has helped raise awareness of the benefits of hybrid technology.
In recent years, Toyota's unwavering dedication to hybrid technology investment has paid off handsomely. With the introduction of several other hybrid models, including the Aygo, Yaris, Yaris Cross, Corolla and Rav 4 Hybrid, Toyota has solidified its position as a leading player in the UK automotive industry. Toyota's hybrid cars are now available in all major markets, facilitating their rise to the top.
Toyota's commitment to hybrid technology is part of its broader commitment to sustainability. Toyota has set a goal of reducing its environmental impact by 20% by 2025, and it is investing in several other technologies to help achieve this goal, including fuel cell vehicles and renewable energy.
Toyota's dedication to sustainability is deeply rooted in its corporate philosophy, which espouses the idea that good corporate citizenship is synonymous with good business. The automaker firmly believes that companies must take responsibility for enhancing society's well-being, and it is unwavering in its commitment to promoting environmental accountability and social welfare.
Toyota's commitment to innovation and sustainability has helped the company succeed in the UK and worldwide. Toyota is a leading player in the global automotive industry, well-positioned to continue to thrive in the years to come.
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Continued Innovation and Success
In the 2010s and 2020s, Toyota continued to focus on innovation and introduced models that appealed to UK drivers. The Aygo, Yaris, Yaris Cross, Corolla and Rav 4 PHEV became favourites among consumers seeking style, versatility, and performance.
Aygo
First launched in 2005, the Aygo is a compact city car perfect for navigating city streets with style and ease. Boasting a sleek, modern design, the Aygo comes in a variety of colours and trim levels to cater to individual preferences. Under the bonnet, the Aygo packs a 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine that produces 69 horsepower, providing ample power for comfortable city driving. Its fuel efficiency is another reason for its widespread appeal, averaging 62.8 miles per gallon in the city and 74.3 miles per gallon on the motorway. Not only does the Aygo look stylish, but it also handles superbly. Light and responsive steering make tight parking spaces a breeze, while good handling and grip make driving fun even on winding country roads. Moreover, the car is exempt from the London Congestion Charge, making it more affordable to own and operate. These factors make the Aygo ideal for young, first-time, and urban drivers searching for fashionable, efficient, and enjoyable cars.
Yaris
First launched in 1999, the Yaris has established itself as a popular choice among UK drivers thanks to its affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency. The five-door hatchback is available in various colours and trim levels, and its modern design boasts a wide stance and low roofline, exuding sportiness. Personalisation is also possible with custom colours, wheels, and decals. Equipped with a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine that offers 111 horsepower, the Yaris is a front-wheel drive, and the vehicle can be equipped with a manual gearbox or a CVT automatic transmission.. It easily handles sharp turns and narrow passages, making it a fun and agile car. The fuel economy is exceptional, with an average of 67.3 in the City and 78.5 motorway miles per gallon, making it environmentally friendly. The Yaris also earns the distinction of being exempt from the London Congestion Charge. City drivers looking for a fun, stylish, fuel-efficient option will find the Yaris exciting. Young drivers and first-timers will also appreciate its superb handling and affordability.
Yaris Cross
Introduced in 2021, the Yaris Cross is a brilliant SUV primed for families needing a versatile car with style and performance. Although sharing a platform with the Yaris hatchback, the Yaris Cross projection of a rugged, SUV-like appearance, includes raised ride height, black plastic body cladding, and roof rails. It comes in various colours and trim levels, offering a choice of petrol or hybrid engines with all the features ideally suited for everyday use. The 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine or hybrid powertrain outputs 111 and 121 horsepower, respectively, with front-wheel drive and CVT automatic transmission. Inside the Yaris Cross is a spacious, comfortable cabin with plenty of legroom, headroom, innovative design and practicality. The sizeable boot caters to all essentials and has features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, a reversing camera and a heated steering wheel. The Yaris Cross is an excellent car choice for families looking for a stylish, versatile, practical ride. It is also a perfect option for drivers seeking a fuel-efficient car with superior driving dynamics.
Corolla
Following its launch in 1966, the Toyota Corolla has become a cherished family car. Its reputation as a reliable, fuel-efficient and spacious vehicle precedes it. This popular vehicle comes in petrol, hybrid, and diesel models, making it accessible for various budgets and drivers. The versatile Corolla is available in a saloon, hatchback, or estate, with the sedan being the most in-demand option – its comfortable ride and leg-roomy interior appeal to all looking for more space. Opt for the hatchback or saloon based on your cargo needs. You can choose a 1.8L petrol engine, a 1.5L hybrid engine, or a 2.0L diesel engine, with 121, 120, and 140 horsepower, respectively. The Corolla boasts front-wheel drive and a CVT automatic transmission for a smooth ride. The Corolla offers a suite of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, reversing camera, and a heated steering wheel for everyday enjoyment. Its various body styles, engines, and features fit every lifestyle and budget. Regarding safety, it provides advanced features like a pre-collision mitigation system, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
This reliable, practical, and stylish vehicle is the optimal choice for families.
Rav 4 PHEV
Introduced in 2019, the Toyota Rav 4 PHEV is an ideal hybrid SUV for drivers seeking an environmentally-friendly and exciting ride. The Rav 4's 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine and electric motor work together to produce a combined output of 222 horsepower, empowering it to achieve efficiency and power. Its electric power alone extends up to 40 miles with a maximum speed of 84 mph. The all-wheel drive earns an EPA-estimated 39 mpg on inner city roads and 36 mpg on motorways, while the front-wheel drive earns an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in cities and 39 mpg on highways. With safety and driver satisfaction at the forefront of the Rav 4's design, it has a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Toyota offers a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an eight-speaker JBL sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and a wireless charging pad for upscale models. The Rav 4 PHEV model has various trim levels, catering to different lifestyles and budgets. Overall, Toyota's innovative model exhibits style, versatility, and reliability – cornerstones of its leading position throughout the global automotive industry.
Toyota's Popularity and Sales Figures
Toyota is quickly becoming one of the UK's most beloved car brands. Sales of over 100,000 Toyota models within 2022 cement its position as the fifth best-selling car brand. Toyota's success can be attributed to several factors. Foremost is its renowned reputation for reliability, with the ability to produce robust, long-lasting cars. Additionally, Toyota offers a wide variety of models to cater to individual needs and budgetary allocations. Some of Toyota's most sought-after models in the UK include the Corolla, Yaris, Auris, and Prius. The Auris is a sleek and stylish hatchback, and the Prius is a popular choice for those seeking a hybrid option. The Corolla is well-suited for families, while the Yaris is a favourite among city drivers. Toyota's unwavering commitment to innovation is reflected in its development of new technologies, such as hybrid and electric cars. It's no wonder Toyota's popularity in the UK is expected to continue surging.
Here are some additional details about Toyota's sales figures in the UK:
- 2022: 100,000+ cars sold
- 2021: 90,000+ cars sold
- 2020: 80,000+ cars sold
- 2019: 70,000+ cars sold
Toyota's top-selling models in the UK in 2022 were:
- Corolla: 30,000+ units sold
- Yaris: 25,000+ units sold
- Auris: 15,000+ units sold
- Prius: 10,000+ units sold
Toyota is committed to providing customers with high-quality cars that are reliable, efficient, and stylish. The company's popularity in the UK is a testament to its success in meeting these goals.
Toyota's Enduring Success
Toyota has been ruling the UK car market for years, and it's no surprise why. They tick all the boxes - quality, reliability, and fuel efficiency. Toyota's reputation for building superior cars isn't just hearsay; their vehicles are well-built and long-lasting, which explains the loyalty Toyota has garnered among UK drivers. The company is steadfastly committed to reliability - their cars are built to last and require minimal maintenance. This earns Toyota well-deserved accolades from drivers who want cars they can count on, year after year. Toyota doesn't just make cars; they make eco-friendly, affordable, and stylish vehicles that drivers love. From fuel-efficient hybrids to electric cars, Toyota leads the charge towards a greener future while keeping your wallet happy. And let's not forget, their latest models are a sight to behold. The Corolla, Yaris, and Rav 4 PHEV are all prime examples of Toyota's ability to deliver vehicles that cater to diverse preferences and meet the evolving needs of UK drivers. Experience the latest in driving innovation today by getting behind the wheel of a Toyota! With their unparalleled commitment to design and ingenuity, Toyota is a brand that shows no signs of slowing down. No wonder they're a solid and respected brand in the UK car market and an excellent choice for anyone looking for quality, reliability, and fuel efficiency in their next vehicle.
Why Buy a Toyota from UK Car Discount?
If you're considering purchasing a Toyota in the UK, UK Car Discount is the ideal destination. Here's why:
- Wide Range of Models: At UK Car Discount, we've got plenty of Toyota models to choose from, including the much-loved Corolla, Yaris, Auris, and Prius. With such a wide selection of Toyota cars, there's always one that fits your needs perfectly. Trust uk cars to help you find your new ride.
- Competitive Prices: At our dealership, you'll discover top-value prices on new Toyota vehicles. Count on us to provide excellent deals and offers for your money. With our vast selection of vehicles, you'll easily find a new Toyota model that meets your needs.
- Flexible Finance Options: Our finance options cater to all budgets, including leasing, PCP (Personal Contract Purchase), and hire purchase. We make it easy to find a financing deal that suits your needs. We offer a variety of vehicle finance to fit your budget so you can buy your new Toyota today.
- Expert Advice: Our knowledgeable experts are dedicated to finding you the perfect Toyota car. With a shared passion for Toyota cars, our sales team will ensure you make the right decision. Whether you have questions about pricing details or need guidance in the selection process, we are here to provide an exceptional car-buying experience.
- Peace of Mind: When you purchase a Toyota from UK Car Discount, you can drive confidently, knowing that all our cars come with a comprehensive warranty. Toyota also provides a roadside assistance program to help you stay on the road.
Toyota's rich history in the UK automotive market and its commitment to quality, reliability, and fuel efficiency have positioned the brand as a top choice for UK car buyers. With a wide range of models, competitive prices, flexible finance options, expert advice, and comprehensive warranties, UK Car Discount is the perfect destination to purchase your Toyota. Call 0161 946 3500 today to explore our selection of Toyota cars and find the ideal vehicle to meet your needs and preferences.
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Our team of experts is readily available to offer comprehensive advice on your chosen vehicle, allowing you to make your decision confidently.
Call us today at 0161 946 3500 to discuss how we can guide you with your next Next New Car.
**Please note vehicle specifications, trim levels, options, and engines are subject to change anytime. Therefore, confirming the vehicle specifications you are interested in when you purchase is essential. Vehicle manufacturers also reserve the right to change specifications without notice.