Akio Toyoda

Toyota's chairman said Tuesday he was "ashamed" of recent scandals involving subsidiaries of the Japanese auto giant, as the firm announced record vehicle sales of 11.2 million across its brands last year.

Toyota named Koji Sato president and CEO on Jan. 26, in a surprise reshuffle that sees third-generation chief executive Akio Toyoda step aside to become board chairman of the world's top-selling automaker.

The Japanese automaker said Sato, 53, would also become operating officer when the changes to its executive structure take effect on April 1.

Toyota lost its crown as the world's top-selling automaker in 2016, company figures showed on Jan. 30, with the Japanese giant overtaken by Volkswagen as the industry prepares for an uncertain trade environment under U.S. President Donald Trump.

The German automaker moved back into the top spot despite being hit by a massive emissions cheating scandal that rocked its reputation.

World's largest car manufacturer Toyota has recalled around 6.6 M cars of 27 different models over technical issues.

Five separate issues have been cited according to the BBC, including seat rails, steering columns, windscreen wipers and a glitch with the engine starters.