Toyota Chairman Approves of Honda HR-V

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【Summary】Toyota Chairman, Akio Toyoda, is seen driving a Honda HR-V in a video released by Toyota's official Japanese PR channel. Despite being a competitor, Toyoda approves of the Honda vehicle, giving it a thumbs up and a smile. The video also features Finnish former rally driver Juha Kankkunen as Toyoda's navigator. This gesture is seen as a mark of respect from Toyota to their compatriots at Honda.

FutureCar Staff Sep 12, 2023 4:24 PM PT

Akio Toyoda, chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation and grandson of founder Kiichiro Toyoda, is well-known for his passion for cars. He has gained a reputation in the auto community for his various exploits, such as participating in the Nurburgring 24-Hours and driving a one-off Century GRMN. Additionally, he has been vocal about pushing the brand to create more exciting vehicles, which has earned him fans from all corners of the industry.

In a recent video released by Toyota's official Japanese PR channel, Toyoda-san further solidifies his likable image by giving a thumbs up to his homegrown competition. The clip, which has gained close to 16 million views, was even reshared by Honda themselves.

The short video, posted on X (formerly Twitter), shows Toyoda, also known as Morizo, behind the wheel of a Honda HR-V (known as Vezel domestically). In the exchange, conducted in Japanese, someone off camera asks Toyoda-san, "What car is this?" to which he excitedly replies, "It's a Honda!" He follows this with a thumbs up and a smile, indicating his approval of his rival's product.

Toyoda was seen driving the Honda HR-V during a recce for Rally Hokkaido. Although it's common for drivers and navigators to rent road-going cars to inspect stages before an event, many executives would typically prefer to stay "on brand" in such situations. However, Toyoda's willingness to sample his competitor's products and share it on their company's social media shows his open-mindedness. The video concludes with a close-up of the Honda badge and their slogan, "The Power Of Dreams," which serves as a friendly mark of respect from Toyota to their compatriots.

Joining Toyoda in the Honda HR-V is Finnish former rally driver Juha Kankkunen. Kankkunen, a four-time World Rally Championship winner, last won the championship in 1993 with a Toyota Celica Turbo. He also achieved success with Peugeot and Lancia in the 1980s. During the demonstration run, Kankkunen served as a navigator for Toyoda, making for an impressive duo.

H/T: Top Gear Philippines. Translation Assistance: Iraj De Silva