Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., on June 12 reported all-time best-ever monthly sales of Toyota Certified Used Vehicles, eclipsing the previous mark set just two months ago. Toyota is the number one selling certified used vehicle in America.

May sales of Toyota Certified Used Vehicles totaled 16,595, an increase of 19.6 percent over May 2000. Calendar-year-to-date sales total 73,594, up 12.7 percent over the same period last year.

"With yet another best-ever sales month in the books, the future of the Toyota Certified Used Vehicle program looks brighter than ever," said Ron Broughman, TMS corporate manager, used vehicle operations department. "The continuing success of our program is a tribute to our great products and excellent dealers."

The 2001 Prius gas-electric hybrid sedan was recently added to the current product line-up of certified used vehicles. Prius is a technological breakthrough combining an efficient, powerful gasoline-fueled internal combustion engine with a clean, quiet electric motor. Configured as a stylish, roomy, 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, according to Toyota. 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. 24-hour roadside assistance is also provided free of charge for one year.

All 1996-2001 models with less than 65,000 miles are eligible for the program. Prior to sale, each vehicle receives a 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.

The Top 10 Toyota Certified Used Vehicle dealers for May were:

1. Longo Toyota, El Monte, Calif.

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

3. Roseville Toyota, Roseville, Calif.

4. Millennium Toyota, Hempstead, New York

5. Laurel Toyota, Laurel, Md.

6. Miller Toyota, Manassas, Va.

7. John Elway Toyota, Englewood, Colo.

8. Toyota of Escondido, Escondido, Calif.

9. Toyota of North Hollywood, North Hollywood, Calif.

10. Capitol Toyota, San Jose, Calif.