Southeastern Finance Toyota (often abbreviated as SE Toyota Finance or SET Finance) isn’t a Toyota entity in the traditional sense like Toyota Financial Services (TFS). Instead, it’s a captive finance company owned by Southeast Toyota Distributors (SET), which is, in turn, an independent distributor of Toyota vehicles, parts, and accessories in the southeastern United States. They are the exclusive distributor for Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and North and South Carolina. Essentially, while TFS is the official financing arm directly tied to Toyota Motor Corporation, SET Finance focuses specifically on supporting the Southeast Toyota dealer network and its customers. Their primary function is to provide financing options for new and used Toyota vehicles sold through SET-affiliated dealerships. The key difference lies in the ownership and geographic scope. TFS is a global entity under Toyota Motor Corporation, offering a wide range of financial products worldwide. SET Finance, on the other hand, operates solely within the Southeast region and is owned by the independent distributor. This allows them to tailor their offerings to the specific needs of the southeastern market and the SET dealer network. For consumers in the Southeast, SET Finance offers a variety of financing options, including: * **Retail Financing:** Standard auto loans for purchasing new or used Toyota vehicles. * **Leasing:** Offering lease agreements with specific terms and mileage allowances. * **Dealer Financing Programs:** Working closely with SET dealerships to provide promotional financing rates and special offers. The benefits of using SET Finance can include: * **Convenience:** Financing is readily available directly at the dealership, streamlining the car buying process. * **Competitive Rates:** They often offer competitive interest rates and financing terms, especially for well-qualified buyers. * **Regional Focus:** They understand the specific market conditions and needs of the Southeastern region. * **Dealer Relationships:** Strong relationships with SET dealerships allow for smoother transactions and potential for exclusive deals. However, it’s important to remember that comparing financing options is always advisable. Just because SET Finance is available at the dealership doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the *best* option for every individual. Consumers should shop around and compare rates and terms from banks, credit unions, and other lenders to ensure they’re getting the most favorable deal. Ultimately, SET Finance serves a crucial role in supporting the sale and financing of Toyota vehicles within the Southeast region. By providing convenient and competitive financing options to both dealerships and customers, they contribute to the overall success of the Toyota brand in this significant market. Always research thoroughly and compare all available options before making a final financing decision.