Introduction
Dubai, December 12, 2012: The outstanding sports car from Toyota, Toyota 86, has topped the coupe sports car category in the UAE, receiving accolades at the 2012 Middle East Car Awards.
Reasons for the Success of Toyota 86
The exceptional balanced performance, attractive design, and remarkable fuel efficiency were pivotal factors that convinced the voting members of the Middle East Car Awards jury to crown the 86 as the best car in this category.
Executive Director's Statement
Simon Firth, Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Motors, the exclusive distributor of Toyota in the UAE, stated: "We are delighted to receive this title. This achievement is a significant recognition for chief engineer Tetsuya Tada and his enthusiastic team, reinforcing Toyota's strength in developing highly popular sports cars."
The Unique Experience Offered by Toyota 86
He added: "The Toyota 86 is an emotionally engaging sports car that delivers an unparalleled driving pleasure and marks the return of Toyota's sports car lineage. We look forward to introducing more vehicles reminiscent of remarkable sports models like Celica, MR2, and Supra."
Positive Media Coverage
Since its launch in June 2012, the car has garnered positive coverage in local and regional specialized newspapers and magazines, with top automotive journalists and critics agreeing that the Toyota 86 achieved its goals as a sports coupe that offers extraordinary driving enjoyment at a very reasonable price.
Expert Opinions
Shehzad Sheikh, co-founder of the website "Motoring Middle East" and a jury member for the Middle East Car Awards, remarked: "The Toyota 86 is a manufacturing legend. It features perfect balance in all aspects, including its brilliant design and impeccable engineering."
He added: "The 86 has changed the game, setting a new undeniable standard, and it will undoubtedly be a certified classic in the future. Such a car comes once in a very long time and deserves the utmost appreciation. In my opinion, it deserves the Car of the Year title, not just the Sports Car of the Year."
Sales Success of Toyota 86
The car not only met all its sales targets but also revitalized a long-stagnant market share, providing a vehicle that nearly every motorsport enthusiast desires to own. Thanks to its sporty design, authentic performance, and lightweight construction, the Toyota 86 has become the first choice for drifting enthusiasts in the UAE and around the world.
Drift Car Modifications
Al-Futtaim Motors presented a Toyota 86 to Ahmed Al Amri, the UAE's drifting champion and driver for the Toyota UAE Drift Team, shortly after the car's launch, allowing him to make a series of modifications based on his expertise in preparation for upcoming drift racing seasons in the UAE and the region. The modified Toyota 86 for the Toyota UAE Drift Team was officially unveiled in October and will participate in the upcoming drift championship seasons.
Car Design and Experience
The driver-centric car is built on a new platform featuring an advanced aerodynamic chassis framework, extending across all solid engineering points, making it the most integrated four-seat sports car in the world.
This vehicle is specifically designed to focus on the essence of the classic sports car experience and has been modified to satisfy the majority of dedicated enthusiasts of this type of vehicle. The Toyota 86 inherits the spirit of previous Toyota sports cars, aiming to reward drivers with a purely interactive driving experience.
Global Awards for Toyota 86
The Toyota 86 has won numerous awards worldwide. In Australia, it received the Car of the Year award at the annual Driving Awards and was named the best-performing car under $60,000, while also securing the top spot in the public voting.
Middle East Car Awards
Two Toyota vehicles made it to the finals of the Middle East Car Awards: Yaris for Best Hatchback and Camry for Best Midsize Sedan.
The nomination and judging process for the third edition of the Middle East Car Awards lasted for eight nights, with judging criteria ranging from car design and management features to safety, emotional appeal, and value for money.
Conclusion
The Middle East Car Awards are an annual event organized by the Sharjah Expo Center, supported by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
