Vehicle owners settle against Hino

A group of New Zealand vehicle owners have settled a claim against vehicle manufacturer and distributor Hino for $10.9 million.

The in-principle settlement remains conditional on court approval and is being advanced in the form of a class action, says Shine Lawyers NZ, which is representing the complainants.  

Hino, a subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation, admitted in 2022 it had falsified fuel efficiency and emissions testing data to secure vehicle certification in Japan.  

The claimants alleged Hino misreported engine performance data concerning fuel efficiency and emissions for a range of diesel vehicles manufactured and exported to New Zealand between 2010 and 2022. 

The claim, filed in March 2025, also alleged Hino failed to meet its obligations under New Zealand consumer protection laws by not adequately disclosing these issues. Hino denies these allegations. 

Heidi Gwynne, a class actions team solicitor at Shine Lawyers NZ, says the claim covers thousands of affected new and used Hino vehicles, including models from the 300, 500 and 700 series. 

“This conditional settlement represents an important achievement for all parties involved, including those vehicle owners who relied on the accuracy of Hino’s representations when purchasing or leasing their vehicles,” she adds.

“While no admission of liability has been made as part of the settlement, it provides certainty and a pathway to compensation for affected class members, without the need for protracted litigation.”  

Shine Lawyers NZ says eligible class members will be contacted with further information about the settlement process and next steps. 

It also notes anyone who currently owns or leases, or has previously owned or leased, a new or used Hino vehicle in New Zealand with a diesel engine manufactured between 2010 and 2022 may be an eligible class member and can register their interest with the law firm.