Toyota Chairman Approves Honda HR-V

author: FutureCar Staff    

Akio Toyoda, chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation and grandson of founder Kiichiro Toyoda, is widely known as a passionate car enthusiast. His involvement in various racing events and his push for more exciting cars has earned him fans from all corners of the automotive community.

In a recent video released by Toyota's official Japanese PR channel, Toyoda-san showed his support for his homegrown competition. The video, which has gained close to 16 million views, features Toyoda behind the wheel of a Honda HR-V (known as Vezel in Japan). When asked about the car, Toyoda enthusiastically responds, "It's a Honda!" and gives a thumbs up, indicating his approval of his rival's product.

During a recce for Rally Hokkaido, Toyoda was seen driving the Honda HR-V. He was originally scheduled to do a demonstration run in the GR Yaris Rally1, a car that competes in the WRC. It's common for drivers and navigators to rent road-going cars to check out stages before an event, but it's worth noting that Toyoda has no reservations about trying out his competitor's products and even sharing it on social media. The video concludes with a close-up of the Honda badge, accompanied by their slogan, "The Power Of Dreams," a friendly gesture from Toyota to their compatriots.

Joining Toyoda in the Honda was Finnish former rally driver Juha Kankkunen, who has won four World Rally Championships. Kankkunen, known for his success with Toyota, Peugeot, and Lancia, served as a navigator during the demonstration run. Together, they formed quite the formidable duo.

Source: Top Gear Philippines. Translation Assistance: Iraj De Silva

FutureCar Staff