Toyota targets more Wigo sales

MANILA, Philippines — Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. (TMP) is targeting to sell more than 11,000 units of the Wigo hatchback this year as it positions the vehicle model as the best option for individuals looking for an affordable car to address their mobility needs amid limited public transportation allowed by the government.

TMP first vice president Rommel Gutierrez said the company has set a sales target of over 11,000 units for the old and new Wigo this year. 

As of end-May, he said sales of the old Wigo has reached 3,031 units. 

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, TMP unveiled Monday the new Wigo to the public through a digital live stream, as a vehicle providing the best option for budget-conscious individuals.

“Prospective buyers for this model are those looking to buy their first cars or looking for a secondary vehicle for their household,” Gutierrez said. 

TMP president Atsuhiro Okamoto said the Wigo is the country’s best-selling entry-level hatchback as it appeals to a broad spectrum of customers.

Last year, the Wigo accounted for bulk or 69 percent of the country’s low-cost passenger car segment.

TMP is hopeful it can sustain its leadership in the segment through the new Wigo.

“It has been the car of choice for young professionals, young couples just starting a family, and even university students. The new Wigo remains an iconic car that offers the same familiar feeling of practicality and reliability; but made more advanced, more convenient and safe and more fun with its sleek and sporty TRD styling,” Okamoto said. 

The Wigo’s price starts at P568,000 for the E MT variant which is available in silver, white and gray colors. 

Meanwhile, the G MT and G AT are priced at P623,000 and P658,000, respectively, and is available in silver, white, gray, black and orange. 

The E and G variants share a new front bumper look, but the latter has machine cut design alloy wheels and a new look on its rear combination lamps.

For the TRD S variant, it is available at P700,000 and customers can choose from yellow, white and gray colors.

TMP is the country’s leading automotive player. 

As of end-May, TMP’s sales dropped 52 percent to 28,163 vehicles from 58,886 units in the same period last year as the lockdown imposed by the government to curb the spread of COVID-19 affected dealership operations.