TORONTO -

The Toyota Certified Used Vehicle program in Canada has seen growth of more than 9 percent this year, having sold over 15,000 vehicles thorough July.

And on Monday, the automaker expanded its CPO offering. It announced the launch of the Toyota Certified Used Hybrid program.

“The Toyota Certified Used Hybrid Vehicle program is the first of its kind in Canada, and is a testament to Toyota’s industry-leading experience in building, selling and servicing Canada’s best selection of fuel-efficient, low-emissions, advanced technology vehicles,” said Tony Wearing, senior managing director of Toyota Canada.

“Hybrids are as reliable, and as easy to own and drive, as conventional vehicles –— so it’s natural to build on our program for certified pre-owned vehicles with this new initiative tailored to those built around Toyota’s proven hybrid technology,” Wearing continued. “Add in the ability to view Toyota dealer hybrid inventories online plus special financing rates, and it’s never been easier to shop for the right hybrid vehicle.”

Officials emphasized the TCUV programs – hybrid or otherwise – are designed to foster “unrivaled piece of mind, years of ownership satisfaction, and enhanced resale values” for consumers.

All TCUV units include:
—A CarProof Vehicle History Report
—127-point inspection plus extensive mechanical and appearance reconditioning.
—Seven-day/1,500-kilometer exchange privilege
—Free oil/filter change
—Membership in Club Toyota
—Minimum of 12 months/20,000 kms powertrain and roadside assistance coverage.

The certified hybrid units from Toyota also receive a special 134-point inspection plan that covers all the hybrid components.

“Toyota Certified Used Hybrid Vehicles are meticulously reconditioned, then backed by Toyota’s comprehensive warranty,” officials stressed. “This is honored at more than 1,400 Toyota Dealers in Canada and the United States, and includes Toyota’s eight-year/160,000-km warranty on all hybrid components.”

Wearing added: “Toyota has sold more hybrids than any other manufacturer and the Toyota Certified Used Hybrid Vehicle program makes it easier than ever for Canadians to join the growing number of drivers who enjoy the many benefits of hybrid vehicle ownership. This new program is yet another example of why we have declared 2012 The Year of the Hybrid in Canada.”