Toyota Regains Global Sales Lead

Toyota's estimated 22% jump in worldwide volume to 9.70 million vehicles last year surpassed General Motors' 3% gain to 9.29 million units and Volkswagen Group's 11% increase to 9.07 million units.

Toyota originally overtook 77-year leader GM in 2008 to capture the global sales crown. The U.S. automaker reclaimed the lead in 2011, when Toyota sales were crippled by Asian natural disasters.

Analysts expect the three rivals to vie to become the world's top seller again this year.