Toyota’s Year in Review: Production Cuts to Next Generations

Part two of our Year in Review series lands us at the capstone of automotive manufacturing. We’re talking about the highest selling automaker on the market and perhaps the most beloved on a global scale. Toyota, a brand that earns the respect of both new and used car buyers, continually breaks the mold on automotive standards. This year, however, Toyota faced considerable production challenges and unexpected setbacks that echo a tumultuous time in the past. Luckily, the overwhelming fondness for Toyota positions this automaker well above the rest, even when the world shuts down or limited supplies highjack production. Here are the main highlights from Toyota’s year in review.

Breakdown of Toyota’s year in review

It’d be difficult to summarize all the events that take place from Q1 to Q4. But we’ve managed to outline the biggest takeaways from the 2021 fiscal year.

Celebrating 25 years of the RAV4 in North America

When the RAV4 debuted in North America back in 1996, it immediately set the bar high for crossover SUVs who’d follow. In fact, the crossover class was barely in existence before the RAV4 showed us how it can be done. Today, it remains the top-selling model within Toyota’s lineup, replacing its predecessor, the Toyota Camry. As we celebrate the quarter century success of the RAV4, we can also get excited for the 2022 model with new SE Hybrid trim.

Production cut by 15% in November

The chip shortage continues to cause destruction on Toyota production. New reports claim Toyota had to cut production by 15% recently in North America and abroad. These production challenges are inevitable at this point in time. As we’ve started to see just about every automaker make adjustments due to limited supplies. That said, this is the third time this year that Toyota has had to make necessary adjustments to their manufacturing schedule. Global procurement manager at Toyota, Kazunari Kumakura recently stated, “I think we are over the worst period”. Let’s hope that rings true for the next year.

Welcoming the Next-Gen 2022 Toyota Tundra

The excitement for the next generation 2022 Toyota Tundra is undeniably one of the biggest highlights of Toyota’s year in review. After a lackluster few years in production, the Tundra rebirth is here to take its full-size truck competitors down. Its rugged yet angular exterior is a welcomed update to its previous generation. However the features that standout the most are as followed:

• Available I-Force Max Powertrain with 437 hp and 583 lb.-ft torque
• Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 Active Safety Standard
• MSRP of $35,950
• All new audio multimedia system

And here comes the best news — the 2022 Toyota Tundra is set to arrive at nationwide dealerships this month! 

Mobile Collision Assistance

New to Toyota and Lexus models comes the “just-in-time” Mobile Collision Assistance feature. This innovative support service allows drivers to easily navigate post-collision reports and claim filings. With the help of guided instructions, drivers can use Mobile Collision Assistance to document important claims and repair processes from start to finish. Moreover, drivers will have greater peace of mind knowing that everything is in order should an accident occur.

Toyota’s year in review

Since Toyota began production in 1937, this decelerated automaker has made a name for itself as the top selling manufacturer worldwide. Granted, the amount of research that Toyota dedicates to improving automobile production is reason enough to earn that esteemed title year after year. The brand has successfully developed a lineup of tried and true models that deliver top safety, precision handling and control, and an exceptional long-term value.

Although 2021 wasn’t without fault, Toyota remained a strong contender. The automotive brand supported the 2020 Summer Olympics and made a series of positive improvements for its 2021 models. Overall, we know the 2022 production year will showcase the continued durability and accessibility of this in-demand automaker.