Used Toyota Yaris cars for sale

Initially launched back in 1999 as a replacement for the Starlet, the renowned Toyota Yaris has been through a period of constant evolution to arrive at the petrol-electric hybrid hatchback we see today. Throughout this evolution, a number of substantial developments have taken place.

Toyota Yaris updates and facelifts

The arrival of the Mk2 Yaris in 2006, followed by the Mk3 in 2011, each mark a step in the model’s evolution in terms of style and performance. The arrival of the Toyota Yaris Mk4 in 2020 saw the iconic model embrace hybrid-only performance.

What’s remained constant throughout the lifetime of the Yaris is the devotion to providing affordable, safe and low-emission motoring that’s also fun. In addition to the ample interior space and comfort, the Yaris also embraces the best in automotive technology. Whether it’s cutting-edge driver-assistance measures – the Toyota Safety Sense suite of features aids in helping to detect collision risks, for example – or infotainment, this supermini is at the forefront of innovation. Indeed, the Toyota Yaris was the first supermini to introduce a touchscreen display, a feature that is now common to compact cars across all marques.

With an array of trim levels available, the Yaris is a model that suits a wide variety of demands, from first-time drivers needing an affordable and easy-to-drive runaround, to experienced motorists looking to downsize their model for something more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. With its compact dimensions, the vehicle glides in and out of urban traffic with ease, while the deceptively spacious interior offers greater head and legroom than rivals such as the Vauxhall Corsa and the Mazda 2.

This being a Toyota, you can also be assured of the build quality and the distinctiveness of the design. Fourth-generation models in particular are noticeably sporty, with their angled headlights and sculpted front fascia. Meanwhile, a range of trim options and alloy wheel designs enables you to select a model that’s sure to stand out.

Practicality and style of the car

Whichever generation of the Yaris you opt for, practicality is assured. This can be partly attributed to Toyota’s desire to create a model with broad appeal. The 5-door design makes entering the vehicle easy, and the cabin provides a remarkable level of space compared to the competition. Thanks to the vehicle’s high roofline, the level of headroom will easily accommodate two adults, while the ISOFIX fittings on the two outer rear seats will enable parents to effortlessly transport children.

In addition to passenger comfort, the Mk4 Yaris also features a good level of boot space as standard, with 286 litres meaning you can comfortably fit shopping and school bags side-by-side. Not only that, but with the 60/40 split folding rear seats folded forwards, there’s the option to increase boot space to a maximum of 947 litres.

Running costs

Depending on the generation of model you choose and the engine option, insurance classification will vary. That said, premiums are never high, with Mk3 Toyota Yaris vehicles falling between groups 2 and 12 (out of 50), while Mk4 models can be found in groups 13 and 14. As such, overall running costs are kept to a minimum.

Road tax is also pleasingly affordable. The maximum you can expect to pay on third-generation editions is just £180 annually, with many that were manufactured before April 2017 actually incurring zero road tax. All models making up the Mk4 selection, meanwhile, will be taxed at £170 annually (or £95 every six months).

How a used Toyota Yaris drives

Engine options for the 2011-2020 third-generation Yaris provide you with a choice between petrol, diesel and petrol-electric hybrid models. Starting with the base-level model, you can select a 1.0-litre petrol unit that delivers 72bhp. While this may not be the most exciting option, it represents an excellent starting point for new motorists and those that will predominantly drive the model around town. Responsive and efficient, the 1.0-litre option returns a frugal 58.9–65.7mpg. making it cost-effective to run and friendly on your wallet.

A more powerful 1.33-litre petrol is equally as impressive when it comes to economy, with a maximum efficiency of 62.8mpg achievable. If you prefer the increased torque provided by a diesel motor, a 1.4-litre option has the ability to deliver up to 80.7mpg, making it the most cost-effective fuel-powered option in the Yaris range. Of course, the standout model in the Yaris Mk3 range is the 1.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid option – the most popular choice among Yaris owners. This efficient model claims 34.4-68.9mpg when it comes to fuel economy, with CO2 emissions as low as just 75g/km.

Fourth-generation Toyota Yaris iterations are supplied with just one engine option: the refined 1.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid. This updated version features two electric motors and a CVT automatic gearbox, resulting in maximum power of 116bhp and acceleration to 62mph in just 9.7 seconds. Gears are selected according to engine power and speed to deliver a smoother drive. In addition, the engine has the ability to perform in all-electric mode on shorter journeys, with the petrol engine only kicking in when tackling motorways and when greater acceleration is required.

Engines and Official MPG

For a complete list of engine options and performance figures, see the table below.

2006 - 2011

2011 - 2020

2020 - onwards

Features you can expect in a Toyota Yaris

While older editions of the Toyota Yaris can perhaps be regarded as somewhat ‘safe’ in terms of design, both the Mk3 and Mk4 models have adopted an altogether more daring aesthetic. Sitting between the Aygo city-car and the Auris hatchback in the Toyota range, the Yaris stands out through the sporty exterior shape and raised roofline, a design feature that is accentuated by the two-tone colour design on newer editions.

Interior and Technology

Inside, practicality and comfort are the order of the day. The intuitive arrangement of all key controls puts the vehicle at your complete command, while the roomy nature lets you sit back and enjoy the ride as the driver or passenger. A colour touchscreen at the heart of the dashboard is the key focal point, providing intuitive access to vehicle settings and infotainment, with higher specification models also incorporating sat nav services. What’s more, this display is also used for the reversing camera, and can mirror your smartphone device to make managing calls and multimedia effortless.

Safety

For those with an eye on safety, both the Mk3 and Mk4 iterations of the Yaris have received a full five-star NCAP safety rating, with the Mk4 achieving scores of 83% and 80% for adult and child-occupant protection respectively. Since 2017, all Toyota Yaris models have been supplied with the acclaimed Toyota Safety Sense system. This suite of innovative measures includes Lane Departure Alert and Automatic High Beam, which automatically switches the car’s headlight beam between dipped and high according to the presence of oncoming traffic. There’s also a Pre-Collision System with pedestrian and cyclist detection that will identify any potential dangers and help avoid any issues.

Trims available on the Toyota Yaris

The Toyota Yaris Mk4 comes in a choice of trims, with additional levels available depending on the trim and year you choose.

Toyota Yaris Icon

Kicking off the Yaris line-up is the Icon trim level. Even though this is the base-level model, the Icon features 16-inch chrome alloy wheels, automatic air conditioning, and a 7-inch Pro Touch multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. In addition, there is a reversing camera as well as Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control and a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection.

Toyota Yaris Design

Step up to the Yaris Design trim and the 16-inch alloy wheels are replaced with 16-inch black machined-face alloys with a five-double-spoke design. There’s also rear power windows and privacy glass, while LED daytime running lights, headlights, fog lights and rear combination lights improve visibility. The multimedia system is an 8-inch Toyota Touch 2 featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity.

Toyota Yaris Excel

Opting for the Excel means your Yaris is equipped with 17-inch black machined-face alloy wheels, LED headlights and auto-retractable door mirrors. Smart Entry and push-button start make getting on the road quick and easy, while the 9-inch HD Smart Connect multimedia system comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as connected cloud navigation. An upgrade in safety measures includes both front and rear parking sensors with clearance sonar and automatic braking.

Toyota Yaris GR Sport

The top-of-the-range Yaris GR Sport exudes the most athletic appearance of all, with 18-inch black machined-face alloy wheels, GR Sport suspension tuning, and LED headlights. Inside, there are front sports seats, a height-adjustable front passenger seat and an 8-inch Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.

Search our stock of used Toyota Yaris cars for sale.