Toyota Loses Sales Crown to VW as Trade Barrier Threat Looms

Toyota Motor Corp. lost its crown as the world’s best-selling automaker to Volkswagen AG, ending the Japanese company’s four-year reign, as it faces challenges that range from the threat of trade barriers in the U.S. to slowing demand in China after a tax increase. Worldwide sales for Toyota, including its Hino Motors Ltd. and Daihatsu Motor Co.