Toyota expands TRD dealer network

Toyota Australia's senior executive director sales and marketing David Buttner said the move was prompted by customer convenience and dealer demand.

TRD sales and service were originally undertaken by a small group of Toyota dealers.

"Customers may be prepared to travel reasonable distances to buy a vehicle, but they definitely want to have it serviced locally," Mr Buttner said.

"Expanding the TRD network is a positive response to this customer requirement," he said.

"It also opens the door to the many dealers who wanted to offer TRD from day one," he said.

Australia is the first country in the world to develop and sell cars under the TRD banner.

The business model is being considered by Toyota distributors in other countries.

The 241kW TRD Aurion was launched in August last year and a 225kW TRD HiLux is due for release in April. Both vehicles feature significant local development, including supercharged engines and sharper steering, handling, braking and styling.

"Toyota monitored TRD over the past six months and is widening the distribution because of our commitment to 'kaizen', or continuous improvement," Mr Buttner said. "All dealerships will receive specific training on TRD to ensure they present, sell and service the vehicles according to TRD standards. "As Toyota's performance division, TRD is an important part of our future because it is adding excitement and passion to the brand.

"We now have the full strength of the Toyota dealer network behind it, which reinforces our commitment to TRD and its success."