Toyota is unlikely to continue competing in the midsize coupe segment, a new report by Ward’s Auto suggests. Jim Lentz, Toyota USA’s executive vice president said R&D will be spent in “better places” than on vehicles the Camry Solara coupe.
“Our sense is that the midsize coupe segment continues to be a deteriorating segment,” Lentz said. He said such vehicles are most popular among female Baby Boomers, and such individuals are transitioning to crossovers.
Toyota ’s position is starkly different from Honda ’s, when it comes to midsize coupes. Earlier this month, Honda revealed the 2008 Accord Coupe Concept to much fanfare. Might the popularity of these cars start to trend upwards again? “Honda must have some insight that they feel that is going to take place,” Lentz said. “Our research doesn’t really show that.”
