Toyota Yaris Sales Drop 61% in Argentina; Prices to Rise Slightly

The Toyota Yaris, once a strong contender in the Argentine market, has experienced a significant sales decline. In the first half of this year, sales plummeted by 61% compared to the same period last year, with only 6,061 units sold compared to 15,547.

This downturn has seen the Yaris fall out of the top 10 most registered vehicles in the country, a stark contrast to its previous position as one of the best-selling models. Analysts suggest that the launch of the Yaris Cross, a new compact SUV from Toyota, has also impacted the Yaris's market share, despite the SUV's own strong reception with 4,479 registrations.

In an effort to boost sales, Toyota has decided to maintain stable prices for its entire range in July, a strategy in place since February. The Yaris, however, will see a modest 1% price increase. This move comes as the broader Argentine automotive industry faces a 9.9% contraction in sales for the first half of the year, with 294,181 vehicles registered compared to 326,549 last year.

Industry leaders are calling for new tools to stimulate the market, such as long-term, low-interest, or zero-interest financing options, and a "sincerity" in pricing and taxes. Despite current concerns, there are signs of recovery, with June sales showing an improvement over May, and optimism for a better second half of the year.