Toyota's March overseas sales hit record peak as US buyers rush ahead of tariffs

TOKYO, April 24 (Reuters) - Toyota Motor 7203.T said on Thursday that its overseas sales in March touched a record high for the month, fuelled by a surge in North American purchases ahead of U.S. import tariffs that came into effect in early April.

The Japanese automaker sold 814,105 vehicles outside its home market in March, a 6.7% increase from year-ago levels. The company's sales in North America climbed 6.8% on strong demand and potential tariff effects.

Toyota reported a 9.1% year-on-year increase in global production for March, marking the third consecutive monthly rise, with output reaching 880,476 vehicles.

The figures include production and sales from its luxury Lexus brand.