About the Toyota Yaris
AI-generatedThe Toyota Yaris is a highly regarded supermini that has been a stalwart of the UK market since 1999. Known for exceptional reliability and low running costs, the Yaris appeals to urban drivers, first-time buyers, and those seeking hassle-free motoring. The current fourth generation, launched in 2020, is available exclusively as a petrol-electric hybrid, offering impressive fuel economy of up to 68mpg combined. Earlier generations (1999-2005, 2005-2011, 2011-2020) offered petrol and diesel options, with the third generation introducing hybrid variants from 2012. The Yaris excels in practicality with a surprisingly spacious interior for its compact footprint, making it ideal for city driving and parking. Build quality is excellent, and Toyota's reputation for dependability is well-deserved with this model. While not the most exciting car to drive, the Yaris prioritises comfort, efficiency, and value retention. The hybrid models are particularly popular for their tax benefits and low emissions, making them attractive for company car drivers and environmentally conscious buyers alike.
Generations
Known Issues
Known Issues
Third Generation (XP130)
2011-2020
- Parking brake can seize or fail, particularly on older models with infrequent use
- Door lock actuators may fail causing central locking issues
- Clutch wear on manual petrol models, especially those used for short journeys
- Hybrid battery degradation on early hybrid models (2012-2014), though rarely catastrophic
- Reversing camera can fail or display poor image quality
- Interior trim rattles, particularly from dashboard on rougher roads
Second Generation (XP90)
2005-2011
- Clutch release bearing failure on diesel models
- Water pump failure on 1.4 D-4D diesel engines
- Exhaust flex pipe corrosion leading to blowing noise
- Front suspension drop links wear prematurely
- Electric power steering can develop faults with warning light appearing
- Rear brake drums prone to corrosion if not regularly used
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Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£900-£1,400
Insurance Group
6-15
Average Service
£250-£350
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
£17,000 - £22,000
£13,500 - £17,500
£10,000 - £14,000
£4,500 - £7,500
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Outstanding reliability and low maintenance costs
- Excellent fuel economy, especially hybrid models achieving 60+ mpg
- Low insurance groups making it affordable for young and new drivers
- Strong resale values due to Toyota's reputation
- Cheap road tax with low CO2 emissions, especially hybrids
- Surprisingly spacious interior for its compact size
- Easy to drive and park in urban environments
- Comprehensive warranty coverage (5 years/100,000 miles with annual servicing)
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Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2020 - Introduction of the fourth-generation model with the excellent 1.5-litre hybrid system as standard, improved handling, modern design, and the latest safety technology including Toyota Safety Sense as standard
- 2017 - Facelifted third-generation model with updated styling, improved safety equipment, and refined hybrid system. Benefits from manufacturer improvements after early issues were resolved
- 2014 - Mid-cycle refresh brought improved build quality, better equipment levels, and the hybrid system had proven its reliability by this point, offering excellent value
Worst Years
- 2012 - First year of hybrid introduction on the third generation with some early teething problems. Hybrid battery concerns and higher prices without the proven reliability record of later models
- 2006 - Early second-generation models suffered from clutch issues on diesel variants and power steering faults that were later improved in subsequent model years
- 2011
Buying Checklist
Engine & Hybrid System7 items
- Check for smooth starting with no warning lights on dashboard
- On hybrids, verify battery health shows 8-10 bars on the display
- Listen for unusual noises from the engine bay during cold and warm starts
- Test hybrid mode switching - should transition seamlessly between electric and petrol
- Check for oil leaks around engine and gearbox
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The Yaris name comes from 'Charis', the Greek goddess of beauty and elegance, combined with the German word 'ja' meaning yes
The fourth-generation Yaris shares its hybrid platform with the Toyota Corolla and is built on Toyota's TNGA-B architecture
A hot hatch version, the GR Yaris, uses a turbocharged 1.6-litre three-cylinder engine producing 261bhp and features a unique all-wheel-drive system developed from Toyota's World Rally Championship experience
The Yaris was named European Car of the Year in 2000, and the GR Yaris won the same award in 2021
Alternatives to Consider
Honda Jazz
9/10Similar reliability reputation with clever 'Magic Seats' offering superior practicality and versatility. Available as a hybrid from 2020 with comparable efficiency
Mazda 2
More engaging to drive with better handling dynamics. Stylish interior and exterior design but slightly less reliable and no hybrid option
Hyundai i20
7.5/10Better value with generous equipment levels and excellent 5-year warranty. More modern infotainment system but higher running costs than Yaris hybrid
Owner Tips
- 1If buying a hybrid, check the battery health indicator on the dashboard display - 8-10 bars is ideal, below 6 bars may indicate degradation
- 2Test the parking brake thoroughly, especially on 2011-2016 models - it should hold firmly on an incline without excessive travel
- 3Check all door locks work correctly from both the key fob and internal switches as actuator failure is common
- 4Look for full Toyota service history as this maintains the extended hybrid warranty (up to 15 years if serviced annually at Toyota)
- 5The hybrid battery has a separate warranty - ensure this hasn't expired or consider an extended warranty for peace of mind
- 6Check for interior rattles during the test drive, particularly from the dashboard area
- 7Inspect the underside for corrosion, especially on older models and coastal vehicles
- 8On hybrid models, ensure the car switches smoothly between electric and petrol modes without juddering or warning lights
Check a specific Toyota Yaris
Enter a registration number to see MOT history, tax status and more
