Michinobu Sugata, president of Toyota Motor Philippines was upbeat during the launch of the new Alphard luxury van and the new Prius C hybrid sedan at the Manila Peninsula Thursdaylast week. He had every reason to be: Toyota garnered its 13th Triple Crown victory. “This gathering of friends is an appreciation for the media’s support in making Toyota where it is now. I am happy to announce that TMP is now part of the Toyota distributors Worldwide registering more than 100,000 unit sales. For the first time in Philippine automotive history, TMP recorded an awesome 106,110 units or a 40 percent surge from the previous year’s performance. Because of this, TMP has improved its ranking to 16th overtaking Malaysia and making a dent in the Toyota global and regional area,” states Sugata.
Taking the baton for Toyota is the locally manufactured sub-compact Vios, registering a sales figure of 25,837 units sold. The Vios was also complimented by the strong showing in the sales race by TMP’s other variants such as the Corolla Altis, Innova, Fortuner, Camry, 86, HiAce and the new Wigo. Sugata also noted the strong performance of its luxury brand Lexus with sales hitting the 475 units sold mark for year-end 2014. Lexus retains the number two slot in the luxury car segment which was further solidified by the introduction of new models such as the NX and RC/RC-F models.
The event also marked the launching of two new variants for the Toyota line-up. A known pioneer in hybrid technology, TMP launched the new Prius C with its signature Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD). The “Eco Fun” design is evident in the Prius C’s stylish exterior and front bumper.
The new Prius C is powered by a 1500cc, four cylinder 1NZ-FXE VVTi Atkinson engine that complies with the standard regulations of EURO V emissions. The Prius C comes in four color hues and prices start at P1.537M for the entry level Prius C Standard and up to the top tier variant, the Prius C Full Option prized at P1.602M.
Launched alongside the Hybrid Prius C is the all-new third generation Alphard luxury van.