Toyota SUCKS!

[Mux213]

jamie,

But pulling out completely from motor sports means that the reputation you've build slowly dies out and is forgotten.

In Toyota's case though I think this was done on purpose. Their target market is the average middle aged parent with good income that wants a relyable, practical, high quality, low maintenance car. Thats as far removed from motorsport goals as you can get.

Just look at Honda, they're proud of their motorsports involvement and it shows through in their models which are all sporty. Even a low end Civic has a sporty setup and even their low cc engines sound and feel sporty. It attracts a certain market that has earned Honda a certain reputation that doesn't always help their sales as that market isn't particularly filled with people that have money to spend (mostly youngsters).

I think Toyota's choice not to concentrate on sporty models and not concentrate on competition is one that fits their current market strategy.

Unfortunately for us speed and sports lovers, it does mean Toyota gave up on something we want back