The 23-year-old double world and four-times European champion has signed a three-year sponsorship deal with the company.

Taylor was crowned world boxing champion in 2007 and 2008, and successfully defended her fourth European title in 2009.

She has also captained the Irish women’s football team and was recognised as Irish Sports Woman of the Year in 2007 and again in 2008.

"Katie is a fantastic role model for all young sportspeople," promotions and PR Manager at Toyota Ireland, Ian Corbett said, speaking at the presentation of the new Toyota Auris to Taylor.

"Her achievements to date make her one of Ireland most successful sport stars and we look forward to supporting her quest for Olympic glory in 2012."

The new deal is a boost for Taylor, who earlier this month suffered her first defeat for nearly three years when Russia's former world champion Sofya Ochigava stopped her in in her lightweight semi-final at the Usti na Labem Gran Prix in the Czech Republic.

Ochigava, the current European featherweight champion, had moved up to lightweight for the tournament, and proved too strong for the Bray woman, winning 8-1 over four two-minute rounds.

It was Taylor's first defeat in 42 bouts.

Irish Amateur Boxing Association head coach Billy Walsh claimed that this was as good a time as any for Taylor to be beaten.

He said: "It is virtually impossible to remain undefeated in amateur boxing and Katie has had an amazing run over the last few years.

"If there was a time to be beaten then this is it, two years out from the Olympic Games in London.

"The Russian girl is obviously quality opposition - that's why we send our boxers to these tournaments.

"Katie has another couple of tournaments coming up before she defends her world title in Barbados later this year."


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