Toyota extends RAV4 hybrid sales freeze to three other models

Toyota has extended a sales freeze on its popular new RAV4 hybrid to three other passenger models while it continues investigations into a braking issue.

The Japanese marque confirmed with carsales today that hybrid versions of the Camry, Prius and Corolla hatch would all join RAV4 in a ‘sale stop’ order for the foreseeable future.

In addition, Lexus has temporarily seized sales of Lexus ES hybrid and Lexus UX hybrid.

“Toyota has identified that brake-related parts may require inspection and has therefore ordered a sales stop of selected vehicles,” the car-maker said in a statement.

“This is a precautionary measure only at this stage and we are in the process of investigation. Vehicle inspections have commenced and we will provide further details on expected completion timing and the subsequent lifting of this sales stop, as soon as possible.”

A spokesman confirmed that Toyota hasn’t issued an official product recall for vehicles already in market potentially affected by the braking problem. He declined to shed any more light on the exact nature of the issue.

“The only update we can give you is that investigations are well underway,” the spokesman said.

“While the investigations are underway – it’s a serial number check – vehicles not affected will be released.”

The RAV4 hybrid sales freeze is particularly ill-timed for Toyota Australia, having commanded a strong proportion of sales since its launch and creating extended waiting times.

According to sources close to Toyota, the original ‘sales stop’ was issued on June 14 and has remained in place since. It’s believed the defect is related to the hybrid’s regenerative energy-recovery system.