- Toyota cars dominate Nigerian roads to the point that it’s almost like they are the only vehicle brand in Nigeria.
- However, there are critical reasons why Toyota vehicles have had huge dominance in Nigeria for decades.
- It’s these major reasons that draw the average Nigerian towards Toyota cars and has kept its popularity over time.
If anyone is ever told today that there was a time when Toyota cars were least considered in the Nigerian market, it’d seem almost impossible to believe. But, that’s the story of Toyota in Nigeria as it has had to compete with the likes of European and American brands like Peugeot, Volkswagen, Volvo, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, etc.
However, its popularity in the Nigerian market began to grow with the entrance of people like the legend of Nigeria’s auto industry, Chief Michael Ade Ojo. What Chief Michael Ade Ojo did was introduce the business of Toyota cars through his company Elizade Motors.
Before then, Japanese cars were not duly recognized by the federal government of Nigeria, which meant they were considered not good enough for the Nigerian market. Today, the narrative has changed because there hardly is any corner in Nigeria that Toyota has not infiltrated.
Toyota is a well-known car manufacturer based in Japan. Founded in 1937, Toyota has grown to become one of the largest car manufacturers in the world, producing a wide range of vehicles including sedans, SUVs, trucks, and hybrids. Toyota is known for its commitment to innovation, producing a range of advanced technologies such as hybrid powertrains, fuel cells, and connected car systems.
Some Toyota cars you’ll randomly spot on Nigerian roads include; the Corolla, Camry, Avensis, Avalon, RAV4, Highlander, Matrix, Venza, Prado, Land Cruiser, 4Runner, Hilux, Tacoma, Hiace, Sienna, and the Lexus SUV and sedan models such as Lexus 300, 330, 350, 460, 470 and 600.
Below are some of the critical reasons related to the standard of living in Nigeria that have taken Toyota vehicles from being unrecognized in Nigeria to dominating the scene.
- Toyota Vehicles are Easy to Maintain
The technology used in building Corolla and Camry cars is less complex and simple to handle, which makes it easy to repair and maintain. This is important to Nigerians because it assures them that they can easily find a mechanical engineer to repair their cars.
Unlike other car models currently available in Nigeria, one reason Toyota cars stand out and maintain a strong stance on Nigerian roads is the ease of maintenance. They are made with the most straightforward technology that even an inexperienced mechanic can handle.
Toyota has a reputation for producing reliable vehicles that are less likely to experience mechanical problems. This can be especially important in a region where access to maintenance and repair services may be limited.
- Toyota Vehicles Enjoy Economy Of Brand
Having a Toyota car is affordable and a good economy for many Nigerians. You don’t need to break the bank to afford one, fix one or buy spare car parts for one.
With regular servicing, changing the shock absorber, and monitoring of other parts of the car, it serves good use at an affordable cost for many.
Although many Nigerians find Toyota cars easy and affordable to maintain, it still does not take away the efficiency of this car. Toyota cars, just like every other car, are made with quality products. And for many Nigerians looking for efficiency and affordability, Toyota is always an option. This is because owning an affordable yet efficient car is everyone’s goal.
Also, Toyota cars are known for their good fuel efficiency, which can be important in a country such as Nigeria where fuel prices are currently over the roof. A full tank in your Corolla or Camry will last to for over a week or two in Nigeria.
- Toyota Vehicles Have Good Durability
If you are looking for an affordable yet efficient car that can withstand wear, tear, pressure and damage, Toyota is on the list. Many Nigerian drivers and car owners love the brand because it suits Nigerian roads, and drivers don’t have to worry about encountering so much pressure. Toyota cars are generally well-built and able to withstand the rigours of everyday use. This can be important in a region where road conditions may be challenging.
- They’re a High-Demand For Toyota Vehicles in Nigeria
Toyota has a strong presence in Nigeria and a wide range of vehicles available in the market, making it easy for consumers to find a car that meets their needs.
For car dealers, Toyota is a good business. Car dealers don’t need to worry about making sales because there’s always someone ready to purchase a Toyota at any time.
Toyota cars, whether new or fairly used, are a good market in Nigeria. All the buyers require is that they’re in sound condition. So, car dealers note that Toyota and Lexus cars don’t stay long before being sold.
- Toyota Cars in Nigeria Has a Very Good Resale Value
Despite how long an owner of a Toyota car has it, it can still be resold at a reasonable market value. While there’s the possibility of the price dropping, it doesn’t take away that the resale brings it substantial value. Toyota has an amazing resale value. Most Nigerian car dealers and buyers would rather quickly opt for a Foreign/Nigerian used Toyota product than any other brand, thanks to its durability and long life span.
It has been confirmed by car dealers that it’s far way easier to resale a Toyota-used product than any other car because it is believed that a well-used Toyota product can still serve the buyer another few years before developing a breakdown that needs major repair.
Conclusion
In the minds of many Nigerian car owners, Toyota builds trust. It’s an exciting fact to realize how it has dominated the marketing for a brand that wasn’t given attention three decades ago.
