Adding a new feather in its cap, the 2018 Toyota Corolla was recently honoured with the recognition for the best car in the ‘Small Sedan’ category at the 2018 Middle East Car of the Year (Mecoty) awards.
The “most successful production car model ever built” was chosen by a judging panel comprising 16 independent senior editors from leading automotive publications representing the Middle East and North Africa, according to a press statement issued in Doha by Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros Co, the exclusive dealer of Toyota in Qatar.
The Mecoty awards are considered the “biggest and most prestigious awards programme” for the regional automotive sector.
The 12th-generation Toyota Corolla emerged as the winner after impressing the judges on 10 aspects that have been set as the selection criteria for the fifth edition of Mecoty. These included design and quality; exterior and interior; handling and drivability; safety and durability; performance and capability; technological innovation; emotional appeal and driver satisfaction; value for money (new purchase and resale); environmentlly friendly; regional appeal; and comfort and practicality.
Yugo Miyamoto, chief representative of the Middle East & North Africa Representative Office, Toyota Motor Corporation, said: “We are extremely proud and honoured to continue to be recognised at the most coveted regional automotive awards. The recognition of an experienced panel is a true testimonial for the outstanding appeal of the Toyota Corolla and its consistent offering of quality and value.
“The most sought-after car, which is synonymous with reliability, affordability and fuel economy, has built a compelling reputation over the last five decades to become the favoured compact sedan of our customers across the world and this region in particular. On this occasion, we would like to thank our customers and are extremely grateful to them for their continuous support and loyalty, and for making Toyota one of the most popular automotive brands in the region.”
The new 2018 Toyota Corolla was launched in the region in July last year with a choice of 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines and is available with a Multidrive 7S transmission to offer improved efficiency and driving pleasure.
The Toyota Corolla also features a modern and dynamic design, a premium interior and an array of safety features such as Vehicle Stability Control, Anti-Lock Brake System, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution, a Tire Pressure Warning System and rear fog lamps, and is available in eight different exterior colours.
Since its launch in Japan in 1966, more than 44mn units of the Corolla have been sold globally to date to “establish itself as the best-selling nameplate in the world”, the statement adds. With its 16 manufacturing plants, Toyota currently produces 1.5mn Corolla cars each year to reach its customers in more than 150 markets. Gulf Times
