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Introduction
Toyota petrol-electric hybrids are proving to be powerful performers in Britain’s fiercely fought crossover and SUV markets. The first half of 2017 saw unprecedented growth for the brand, largely driven by the impressive sales of the new Toyota C-HR and RAV4 hybrids. These results demonstrate how Toyota’s hybrid technology is winning the hearts and minds of customers.
Toyota C-HR Hybrid: A Trailblazer in the Crossover Market
The Toyota C-HR has made a significant impact since its launch in January. Its sharp, radical styling and dynamic performance have made it a distinctive choice in the crucial crossover market. Hybrid power is the top pick for both retail and fleet customers, who are impressed by the advances Toyota has made in smooth, responsive performance with its latest generation powertrain. Sales in the model’s first six months in the showroom have topped 7,450 units, with hybrids accounting for more than two-thirds (5,180 units) of the total.
British-Built Hybrid Engine
Notably, the highly efficient 1.8-liter hybrid petrol engine featured in the C-HR’s powertrain is built in Britain at Toyota’s Deeside plant. The C-HR Hybrid is a winner when it comes to the cost of ownership, offering a low total cost of ownership.
RAV4 Hybrid: A New Chapter in SUV History
The RAV4 is another hybrid hero, achieving excellent sales momentum with first-half results up 65.6 percent on 2016, with 3,119 vehicles sold. This success is balanced between private customers and business users. Introduced at the start of last year, the RAV4 Hybrid opened a significant new chapter in the history of the world’s original recreational SUV and in the evolution of Toyota’s hybrid technology.
Power and Efficiency
The RAV4 Hybrid system provides a full system output of 195bhp, which is appropriate for a family-sized SUV. It also offers the option of all-wheel drive through Toyota’s lightweight and efficient E-Four system. This system automatically delivers extra traction when needed in slippery conditions via an electric motor mounted on the rear axle.
Expert Opinion
Andrew Cullis, Toyota GB Marketing Director, said:
“The fantastic performance of C-HR and RAV4 demonstrates the increasing strength-in-depth of our hybrid range – a line-up that offers more choice than any other manufacturer. We have successfully tailored our technology to suit the demands of different vehicle segments so that our crossover and SUV models are a strong and attractive alternative to their conventionally powered rivals.”
Key Takeaways
- Toyota’s hybrid technology is driving significant growth in the crossover and SUV markets in Britain.
- The Toyota C-HR has seen impressive sales since its launch, with hybrid models making up the majority of its sales.
- The 1.8-liter hybrid petrol engine used in the C-HR is built in Britain at Toyota’s Deeside plant.
- The RAV4 Hybrid has seen a 65.6 percent increase in sales compared to the previous year.
- Both the C-HR and RAV4 hybrids offer a balance of power, efficiency, and cost of ownership benefits.
- Toyota’s hybrid range offers a strong and attractive alternative to conventionally powered rivals in the crossover and SUV segments.
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