Toyota has been the dominant force in Australia for 25 years now, maintaining top spot as the best-selling car manufacturer in the country throughout that period. In 2022, the Toyota HiLux was also the top-selling model of car, helping the brand to sell more than double the next competitor on the list, Mazda with 135,000 fewer cars sold than Toyota. This dominance in the Australian automotive market has been seen for some time and it looks like there is no let-up in sight, with other legacy brands suffering in comparison and actually having a downturn in sales over the last year or more.
Why is Toyota so popular in Australia?
Toyota has been the market leader for most of the last 2 and a half decades in Australia. The HiLux in particular, is selling far more units than any other car model over the last few years. Let’s dig into some of the reasons why Aussies love this brand and this model of vehicle in particular. There’s no reason to think it is going away any time soon.
The HiLux from Toyota is one of those reliable vehicles that have great handling across any terrain and any condition.
Reliability
A strong engine and with good fuel economy, the HiLux is a vehicle that can be trusted to run for a long time. It is comfortable and has space for passengers, luggage, and comfort, with both four-wheel and two-wheel drive versions available, as well as diesel and petrol, and manual and automatic versions. With such great versatility and robustness, it has become a firm favorite with the Australian market due to the climate and terrain it can handle.
Unbreakable
This reliability can be seen in its reputation as being ‘unbreakable’, in the entire time that it has been in production (the Toyota version has been in production since 1968). Most owners never see the need for major repairs, and this is sensational when you consider the off-road capabilities and potential of the vehicle. With urban dwellers appreciating the robustness and versatility, the HiLux has become one of those cars that you see everywhere, both off road in the sticks and downtown in the cities.
Favourable Federal Laws
There are some federal laws that have made it easier to purchase this dual-cab ute, a model of vehicle that suits Australia down to the ground. There have been several tax breaks introduced in recent years and subsidies for owners of a ute. This includes deductions for motor vehicle expenses, making the HiLux more affordable to a wider range of potential vehicle owners across Australia. It has also become much easier to get insurance, registration, and finance, helping the HiLux to become the biggest seller.
Think about the status of owning a HiLux
As we are discussing 25 years of Toyota dominance, this has had an impact on how the car brand is perceived in Australia. It commands respect, it is tough, a reliable vehicle, with good levels of comfort, suitable to both on-road and off-road capabilities. All of these things make it a status symbol that people want to be associated with. The self-fulfilling prophecy that continues to snowball over time as it continues to dominate the market.
Cost effective vehicle
One of the other major reasons that the Toyota HiLux is so well-liked in Australia is that it has sensible running costs. With an 80 litre tank capacity, this matches up well as one of the largest in its class, making it easier to go further between filling up your tank. This helps you to save money on fuel and reduce the time spent at petrol stations. Its price tag is also at a good price point for a family vehicle, whether you are looking for a practical family vehicle for long trips away or weekend breaks, it offers plenty of space and comfort.
A workhorse with towing potential
The HiLux is used by plenty of farmers and tradespeople because of its robustness and reliability. It is a vehicle that packs a punch in terms of power and is available with a diesel engine for those that need to tow heavy loads. This towing capacity is something that makes it very attractive in a country like Australia, where many people are looking for a vehicle that gives them the capacity with a great suspension system and powerful engine that can tow large trailers, and heavy goods.
You can see why the Toyota HiLux is revered in Australia and has been top of the charts for so long. Toyota have dominated the market for 25 years now, and with the reasons listed above, there is no sign that this is going to change any time soon. It can handle any terrain and climate, has plenty of space for passengers and luggage to travel comfortable, is very reliable, versatile, and cost effective, and it looks great!
