Toyota Motor Sales today reported February 2013 sales results of 166,377 units, an increase of 4.3% over the year-ago month, perhaps behind overall forecast U.S. market growth of twice that rate. Part of the reason for the slowing of TMS’s rate of growth goes back a month. U.S. vehicle sales in January were surprisingly strong, with no automaker stronger than Toyota Motor’s three brands, which increased sales almost 27% in a retail light-vehicle market that grew by 14% to more than 1 million units. It’s payback time. Going forward, Toyota increases will be more in line with the industry.
Toyota Division posted February sales of 149,038 units, +4.4% over February 2012. Lexus Division reported February sales of 17,339, up 3.9% compared to the same period last year. Curiously, sales of the Prius family of hybrids at 17,812 were off -13.5% against last February when Toyota was heavily marketing the then new Prius c and v. As an aside here, Toyota’s Prius-badged vehicles were the most popular new vehicles with California drivers during the 2012 calendar year, the country’s largest auto market. According to R.L Polk, the Prius family cars (Prius Liftback, Prius v, Prius Plug-in, and Prius c) accounted for 61,893 vehicles registered in California, making Prius the No. 1 vehicle badge sold in the state.
“Despite rising gas prices, severe winter storms and concerns about the federal budget, February was a good indication of the overall strength of the market,” said Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division. “With the most fuel efficient full line of vehicles, Toyota is well positioned, and we’re encouraged by very positive consumer reaction to our new Avalon and RAV4.”
The new Avalon posted its best month since November 2007, up 63.1% with sales of 5,703 units. RAV4, bolstered by sales of the all-new 2014 model, recorded its best-ever February with sales of 13,329 units, up 5.1%. Corolla sales of 24,999 units were up 12.9%. Camry posted sales of 31,270 units, while the Prius Family recorded sales of 17,812.
However, the trucks really stood out, increasing 16% for the month. Both Tundra (7,306) and Highlander (9,310) posted their best February sales since 2008, up 15.5% and 14.1%, respectively. Tacoma recorded sales of 12,644 units, up 18.5%, its best February since 2008.
