
The Toyota Motor Corporation is the world's largest car manufacturer by volume. In 2023, Toyota Group (including Daihatsu and Hino) sold approximately 11.23 million vehicles globally, allowing it to narrowly retain the top spot ahead of the Volkswagen Group. This leadership is built on a foundation of global sales dominance, a reputation for reliability, and a powerful hybrid vehicle strategy.
While Toyota leads in total units sold, the competitive landscape is shifting rapidly. The rise of Chinese manufacturers like BYD, which has become the global leader in New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), and the aggressive growth of electric vehicle specialist Tesla, are redefining what it means to be an "largest" manufacturer in the 21st century.
| Manufacturer Group | 2023 Global Sales (Approx. Millions) | Key Strength | Notable Brand/Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Group | 11.23 | Global supply chain, hybrid technology, reliability | Toyota RAV4, Corolla |
| Volkswagen Group | 9.24 | Strong European & Chinese market presence | Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche |
| Hyundai-Kia | 7.30 | Competitive value, design, warranty | Hyundai Elantra, Kia Sportage |
| Stellantis | 6.40 | Portfolio of strong regional brands (NA & EU) | Jeep, Ram, Peugeot |
| BYD | 3.02 | World's leading NEV (BEV/PHEV) manufacturer | BYD Seagull, Atto 3 |
Being the largest doesn't automatically mean a company is the most profitable or technologically advanced in every area. Toyota's current challenge is accelerating its transition to a full lineup of competitive Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) to match its mastery of hybrids. For a consumer, "largest" often translates to widespread dealer networks, strong resale value, and proven long-term durability, which are significant factors in a major purchase decision.


