Toyota has once again achieved success in the 2017 Middle East Car of the Year (MECOTY) awards, the biggest and most prestigious awards program for the regional automotive sector.
The Toyota Prius bagged the “Future of Motoring” special category award, while the Toyota Fortuner was named the “Best Midsize SUV.” The winners were chosen by a jury of 15 independent motoring journalists from leading automotive publications throughout the Middle East and North Africa.
Helping to mitigate the environmental effects of automobiles has long been a priority for Toyota.
Toyota has encouraged the mass-market adoption of hybrid vehicles across the globe. Toyota launched Prius ― the world’s first mass-produced hybrid passenger vehicle ― in December 1997. Since then, Toyota hybrid vehicles (HV) have received tremendous support from consumers around the world.
What makes the Prius particularly innovative is the presence of two power sources in the form of the electric motor and petrol engine. Thanks to the harmonious blend of the twin power sources, the car moves off under full electric power right from the start, using no petrol at all, producing zero emissions and delivering exceptional performance. The owner does not even need to worry about charging the hybrid battery — the smart Prius will take care of it by charging it through the petrol engine or when braking and decelerating.
Takayuki Yoshitsugu, chief representative, MENA, Toyota Motor Corporation, said: “We are pleased and proud to have been honored with two awards at MECOTY 2017. Toyota Prius, which won the ‘Future of Motoring’ award, is an illustration of Toyota’s belief that hybrids can make a difference to our future mobility and our planet’s wellbeing. At the same time, Toyota Fortuner, winner of the ‘Best Midsize SUV’ title, has rewritten the rules in its class with its rugged and tough styling, abundant family-friendly features and superb off-road capabilities and the award further underscores the prominent position it enjoys in this segment in the region.”
Yoshitsugu added: “Toyota’s passion for automotive excellence is fueled by the support and loyalty of our customers. As we celebrate our success at MECOTY 2017, I express my sincere appreciation to our customers across the region for putting their faith in Toyota and continuously inspiring us to create ‘ever-better cars’.”

Source: Arab News