Peter Lyon
February 9, 2024
Toyota is No 1 again. UMW Toyota Motor has held on to its top spot among foreign carmakers in Malaysia in 2023. Both Toyota and Lexus models were among the 108,107 units that the corporation sold here last year.
UWM Toyota Motor saw an 8.06% rise in sales in 2023 compared to 100,042 units in 2022. Building on the company’s 2023 success, 6,276 units were sold in January 2024 (Toyota & Lexus), getting the brand off to a strong start.
In the non-national passenger vehicle industry, the Toyota brand alone achieved a 32% market share. The brand sold 22,533 SUVs, representing a 19.6% importer market share.
With 27,447 registered units, Toyota achieved a 47.2% non-national market share in the pickup truck class, and with 3,424 registered panel vans, Toyota dominates with a 100% non-national market share in this sector.
“Our success is a reflection of our dedication to delivering high-quality vehicles and an unparalleled ownership journey,” said Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor. “As we continue to set new benchmarks, our focus remains on providing meaningful and innovative mobility.”
In early February, the company opened a second 3S location in Nibong Tebal, Penang, thus broadening its reach. In line with UMWT’s dedication to offering a vast and easily accessible network to its customers, this calculated step aims to improve accessibility and buyer service in the area.
Datuk went on to say, “Beyond cars, we are dedicated to creating happy experiences and top-notch services for every client,” with a lot of those vehicles being hybrids.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
Given the huge appeal of Toyota’s strong lineup that includes the Hilux, Corolla, Innova, Vios, Camry, Yaris, and Harrier, plus its competitive pricing, industry-leading reliability, and massive dealer network, it’s not surprising that Japan’s No 1 carmaker took the top spot in Malaysia for foreign brands. Industry experts will have their eyes locked onto this market trying to gauge how Toyota will perform as a gaggle of EVs flood into rival showrooms—especially given that Toyota is still holding back on going all in on fully electric cars.
