Yaris, Camry crowned ME cars of the year

Toyota has once again achieved success at the 2019 Middle East Car of the Year (MECOTY) awards. The Toyota Yaris claimed the title of ‘Best Sub-compact Sedan,’ while the Toyota Camry was crowned ‘Best Midsize Sedan’ at the regional automotive sector’s biggest and most prestigious awards ceremony, which took place in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Now in its sixth edition, the annual MECOTY awards are renowned as the Middle East’s most authoritative industry honours programme.

The judging panel, which comprised 19 highly respected independent senior editors from leading automotive publications in the region. The two vehicles were selected based on a rigorous set of ten criteria including design and quality (exterior and interior); emotional appeal and driver satisfaction; handling and drivability; value for money (new purchase and resale); safety and durability; comfort and practicality; performance and capability; environmental friendliness; technological innovation; and regional appeal.

Yugo Miyamoto, Chief Representative of the Middle East & Central Asia Representative Office, Toyota Motor Corporation, said: “We are proud to be recognized again at one of the region’s biggest and most prestigious awards program for the automotive sector. The new Yaris delivers great fuel economy, optimal performance, and fun driving experience and also sets fresh benchmarks for compact sedans, while the all-new Camry’s emotional design, refined interior and cutting-edge technology place it at the forefront of the midsize sedan market.”

Yaris

The Toyota Yaris was launched in the region in February last year with a choice of 1.3-liter and 1.5-liter engines and is available with a Multidrive 7S transmission to offer a smooth driving experience and outstanding fuel efficiency. Designed to appeal to those who seek out the latest trends and innovations, the Yaris’ stylish exterior and spacious cabin couple superior comfort with uncompromising levels of quality and durability.

Camry

The all-new Camry was launched in January 2018 and has created a whole new value proposition while ensuring seamless fun and excitement for drivers and passengers alike. The vehicle delivers superior handling and comes with three powertrain options; a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, a 3.5-litre V6 mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission; and a new electrified hybrid system that combines a petrol engine with two electric motors and exemplifies Toyota’s continuous commitment to providing environmentally friendly vehicles.

Both vehicles come with SRS airbags, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), and enhanced body and platform structures, among many others.