Yaris Cross sales on hold

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) has suspended shipments of Japan-built Yaris Cross vehicles to New Zealand due to issues with certification testing.

The issue relates to testing protocols and data gathered on the impact of luggage on the rear seat during a crash test.

After thorough internal verifications confirming no performance issues that contravene laws, TMC has advised there is no need to stop using the affected vehicles.

However, it is temporarily halting shipments and sales of Yaris Cross produced in Japan to provide detailed explanations to authorities and expedite appropriate measures, including witnessed testing.

This irregularity does not compromise the emissions or safety of their vehicles, says Toyota NZ, which is working with TMC to understand the situation and will provide an update to the media when more information is available.

“Our vehicles in New Zealand are correctly represented and perform according to technical specifications, meeting all government regulations,” says Toyota NZ in a statement. “However, we are putting a temporary hold on customer deliveries until further notice.

“We have full confidence Toyota NZ’s vehicles meet the required performance standards and apologise for any concern this news may have caused. We apologise for any inconvenience that may be experienced by customers who have placed their trust in Toyota.

“We want to reassure customers their vehicles are unaffected and they can continue to drive with confidence. We appreciate the ongoing support of our New Zealand customers.”