Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., on May 22 reported record-breaking April sales of Toyota Certified Used Vehicles (TCUV).

April sales of Toyota Certified Used Vehicles

totaled 14,786 units, an increase of 9.3 percent

compared to April 2000, according to company figures. Calendar year-to-date sales total 56,992 units, up 10.8 percent compared to the same period last year.

"With a record-breaking first quarter and a trail of record monthly sales behind us, 2001 promises to be an even better year than last for Toyota certified used vehicle sales," said Ron Broughman, TMS corporate manager, used vehicle operations department. "We hope to continue to exceed monthly objectives and we are very proud that Toyotas are the number one selling certified used vehicles in America."

The 2001 Prius gas-electric hybrid sedan was

recently added to the current product line-up of

certified used vehicles. Prius combines a gasoline-fueled internal combustion engine and an electric motor. Configured as a five-passenger family sedan, the Prius carries an EPA label fuel economy rating of 52 miles per gallon city, 45 highway, and an SULEV (super ultra low emission vehicle) certification.

The Toyota Certified Used Vehicle program,

established in 1996, continues to provide one of

the best pre-owned warranties in the industry. The warranty, from date of first use, includes

six-year, 100,000-mile limited powertrain

coverage, as well as an optional comprehensive

100,000-mile vehicle service agreement. Also provided free of charge for one year is

24-hour roadside assistance.

All 1996-2001 models with less than 65,000

miles are eligible for the program. Prior to sale, each vehicle receives a rigorous 128-point

inspection of all mechanical and safety functions, as well as overall appearance considerations. The Prius receives an additional 15-point inspection of its hybrid components.

Top 10 Toyota Certified Used Vehicle Dealers for April

1. Longo Toyota, El Monte, Calif.

2. Roseville Toyota, Roseville, Calif.

3. Millennium Toyota, Hempstead, N.Y.

4. Toyota of North Hollywood, North Hollywood, Calif.

5. Hamer Toyota, Inc., Mission Hills, Calif.

6. Laurel Toyota, Laurel, Md.

7. John Elway Toyota, Englewood, Colo.

8. Miller Toyota, Manassas, Va.

9. Toyota of Escondido, Escondido, Calif.

10. Mike Miller Toyota, Culver City, Calif.

Source: TMS