Hawaii is well-known for many things, beautiful beaches, world-class sunsets and crystal blue water. One thing that may not be is not so popularized is Hawaii’s love for the Toyota – specifically the Tacoma. More and more people are joining the conversation about why the Tacoma has been chosen as the overall best seller in Hawaii for 16 consecutive years. That’s right, this is no fluke people, this is the real deal!
On his recent visit to Hawaii, Jo Koy emphasized this fact while in Maui, dubbing the island the “world’s largest Toyota Tacoma dealership.” He jokes “we got small ones! We got street customs! We got ugly ones!” Well it turns out, there was more to his Tacoma skit than a fun-loving joke. According to a new study by EducatedDriver.org, Toyota is by far the most popular car brand in Hawaii.
That’s right! As long as Hawaii is concerned, T-O-Y-O-T-A spells automotive gold in the islands. The Tacoma has been the #1 car in Hawaii for the last 16 years, going back as far as 2003. Further, Hawaii is the onlystate to dub the Tacoma king-pin on automotive stage. According to Popular Mechanics, the Toyota Tacoma sells about eight times faster in Hawaii than it does across the entire United States. So what’s the hype with the Tacoma?
Maybe it has something to do with the fact that Hawaii has the highest percentage of Asian Americans of any state in the US with 39% of the population being of Asian descent. It has been shown that non-white ethnic groups are more likely to purchase non-American brands at a higher rate. Additionally, Hawaii’s location in the Pacific ocean has shown that purchasing patterns converge towards Toyota and Asian brands in general as buyers relate more closely to this part of the world culturally. All factors considered, this leads to the perfect target market for Toyota.
In a recent study done amongst Hawaii residents, some of the common feedback from locals included comments like “the Tacoma is a well built truck with a strong 4×4 pedigree and lots of custom parts” and “Tacoma’s have all the functions of a pickup truck and great fuel economy.” Another user added, “the truck is sturdy and yet small enough to fit in the small parking spots Hawaii is known for.” Anyone who knows the high cost of living in Hawaii, soaring gas prices and markedly smaller parking stalls available, it’s no surprise the Tacoma has come out on top.
What do you think? Why is the Tacoma so popular in Hawaii? At KW Auto Body, we see a range of cars come through our shop and we have become experts in both the popular brands and lesser-known car brands throughout the islands. Send us an online estimates request or give us a call if your car needs some work. Whether you have a souped up custom car or one of the uglier models, we can help!
Get More Tips From K.W. Auto Body
We love to help our customers to simplify their lives. Check out more tips, tricks & hacks from our experts to help you to stay safe and drive with aloha.
I’ve Been In An Accident, Now What?
Even the most seasoned driver may be unraveled and frazzled after getting into an accident. This month we’re giving you our post-accident steps to help you limit the unnecessary worry and stress that comes from being involved in a car crash. It’s important to remember that stress and emotions are high at the time of a collision and that remaining calm is always a great place to start.
5 Enemies to Auto Body Paint
There are lots of chemicals that may permanently damage your car’s paint. Some are well-known enemies while others may surprise you. We’ve said it before, the more you know the better prepared you are to care for your vehicle. This month on the blog we’re dishing 5 surprisingly (yet common) substances that you’ll want to avoid to maintain your pretty paint job.
Germ-Free Driving
We can all agree that these last few months have absolutely flipped our world upside down. Covid-19 has forever changed our lives, and it’s safe to say that keeping the insides and outsides of our vehicles clean is vital. Below are a few car sanitizing tips to keep you driving germ-free.
Seat Belt Safety
According to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations (NHTSA), wearing your seat belt serves as the single most effective way to reduce the risk of death and injury in a vehicle crash. Since 1975 seat belts are responsible for saving nearly 300,000 lives! This month on the blog we’re discussing the most important safety measure for both passengers and drivers alike. You guess it – seat belts!
Car Washing 101
Here at KW Auto Body we consider our car a part of the family, and we do our very best to take care of it. Your vehicle’s exterior is the only line of defense against the elements which makes its regular wash so important. Below are four simple steps to maximize your car washing routine.
3 Tips to Keeping Your Car Clean On A Beach Day
May is in full swing, and while our state is still practicing social distancing to flatten the COVID-19 curve, the ocean never shut down. Even if you’re planning a trip to the beach for a quick in-and-out session, you can guarantee that sand and saltwater will make its back to your car. Below are 3 tips to keeping your car clean on a beach day.
Featured Services
We’ve got you covered! Our dedication to fast and friendly service means getting you back on the road as quickly, conveniently & safely as possible. No matter what repairs your car needs, K.W. Auto Body has got you covered.

Computerized Estimates
We offer C.C.C.ONE estimating system along with digital imaging.

Paint & Refinishing
We use Standox and a computerized paint matching system.

Auto Body & Collision Repair
We use Pro Spot Aluminum weld station for specialized repairs.

Unibody & Frame Repair
We are trained to use the car-o-liner computerized measuring system.
Jumpstart Your Repairs
You were in an accident. We're here to help. We are a full service auto body shop and are committed to serving you. Let's get you in the shop and back on the road seamlessly and quickly. Give us a call today!
Product
Features
Integrations
Solutions
Resources
Partners
Blog
Help Center
Connect
