A generation-by-generation Toyota Yaris buyer's guide

The Toyota Yaris of the first generation is an excellent choice for novice drivers and commuting. While it's not cheap, it offers low running costs (fuel consumption and repairs) and remarkably high reliability. Though the first Yarises might seem somewhat overpriced, these factors contribute to its price.

Prices start very low, but a well-maintained unit can cost about CAD 2,250 to CAD 3,250. Similar German or French cars in similar condition cost about CAD 650 to CAD 1,300 less. The difference with cheaper cars lies more in technical condition than in price.

Inspecting the chassis is important because it is most crucial. Chassis and sills can be heavily corroded. Engines generally do not cause problems, but the vehicle's age should be considered. They are solidly made, with fewer leaks than French, German, and Italian ones, but are somewhat more complicated and sensitive to neglect. Gearboxes are not exceptionally durable, but there is no need to worry. A significant advantage of the Yaris is stable electrics and electronics.

Engine options are limited. The 1.0 gasoline engine (65 or 68 HP) is a good choice for those wanting to drive as economically as possible. The 1.3 version offers better dynamics and power of 86-87 HP. In turn, the diesel 1.4 with 75 HP is good, but repairs will be much more expensive in case of faults. It's more enjoyable to drive than the 1.0 gasoline, even with slightly lower fuel consumption. The diesel's big plus is the absence of a dual-mass flywheel, DPF filter, simple injection system, and a solid timing chain. If you find a good unit, it likely won't need repairs for many years, although it only meets the relatively low Euro 3 standard.

The sporty TS variants with a 1.5 engine (105 HP) are almost rare. Buying such a car for driving is a good decision now, as prices have not yet skyrocketed but may soon be much higher. Nonetheless, well-maintained Yarises maintain their value well regardless of the version. So, it's worth keeping a nice unit in good condition after purchase.

Remember the Yaris Verso version, a unique variation of a family car in segment B. Not precisely a station wagon or a minivan, but very spacious. Driving at higher speeds, especially in windy conditions, is unpleasant due to the high and narrow body.

It's even more spacious yet small and safe. It drives well and remains economical and technically straightforward. Although its maintenance costs are practically the same as those of its predecessor, it feels like a much more modern car during operation.

Second-generation prices are understandably higher. The cheapest cars are typically extremely worn but still operational and start around CAD 1,300. Drivers showed no mercy for many fleet-driven units, especially those with the Diesel 1.4 D-4D engine.

A car in fair condition can be purchased for about CAD 1,950 to CAD 2,275, with more excellent units costing several thousand. Those with low mileage and good condition will fetch at least CAD 6,500. Interestingly, the TS sports model does not stand out in pricing here. It's more expensive than cars in worse condition, but you will pay as much as for a nicely maintained Yaris 1.33.

Speaking of engines, the 100-HP 1.33 gasoline engine had issues with rings and consumed oil. It was frequently repaired. Today, it's considered risky but still viable. It should not be confused with the reliable 1.3 version with 87 HP. However, the 1.0 gasoline version with a modest power of 69 HP is the safer choice.

Good Diesel 1.4 D-4D units can be risky if they were neglected previously. If the car has low mileage and is privately owned, such a diesel will last a long time and won't require much money for maintenance. There is no dual-mass flywheel, although DPF and piezoelectric injectors were introduced in 2008. Repairs for the turbocharger and the new injection system are more expensive than those for the first generation. The engine meets the Euro 4 standard.

Corrosion is still an issue for the Yaris, but electrics remain a strong point. Due to its newer age, the second generation has less rust damage. Automated transmissions should be avoided, as they are neither comfortable nor durable and can be troublesome. Opting for a manual gearbox is better.

Choosing a Toyota Yaris of the third generation introduces a new dilemma: adding a hybrid option alongside gasoline and diesel engines. Each option is good, though with certain drawbacks.

Hybrids are the most expensive to purchase but have excellent dynamics and are potentially the least prone to failure. A good unit's operation costs will be the lowest, as hybrids rarely require servicing and are the most fuel-efficient.

The gasoline 1.5 with 111 HP (since 2017) mainly has better dynamics on paper and might seem the most desirable drive option. However, it's worth noting that it also came with a continuously variable transmission. It impresses with dynamics, but only with a manual gearbox. It has a pleasant character and does not deter conservative technophiles like the hybrid.

The known diesel 1.4 with 90 HP from previous generations, with a modified injection system (return to electromagnetic injectors), is a very good choice. It offers the best performance, consumes little fuel, and has pleasant characteristics thanks to the six-speed manual transmission. The drawback might be the technical condition and repair costs in the event of a severe fault. Unfortunately, the diesel meets only the Euro 5 standard and was offered until 2017.

Finally, two gasoline versions: 1.0 and 1.33. The weaker one (69 or 72 HP) is a fleet classic and a good option for the cautious. The more robust unit producing 99 HP is the predecessor of the 1.5 variant and offers similar performance. It's a golden midpoint between the base engine and the others and a cheaper alternative for those looking for a more powerful gasoline engine but cannot afford a newer car.

It's important to emphasize that choosing any unit in the Yaris III is a good decision. Not everyone may like the characteristics and dynamics. However, selecting this car is wise because it represents an excellent compromise between price and age. Prices are higher than competitors, but not disproportionately as with older Yarises. The price range is vast.

Purchases start from about CAD 3,900, but the most expensive cars are valued at over CAD 22,750. The year and mileage are the most significant factors, not just the car's condition, as with Yarises I and II. For a good-looking vehicle from the beginning of production with reasonable mileage, expect to pay about CAD 6,500, roughly the same as its predecessor in good condition. The market for the third generation is somewhat healthier.

It's too early to assess its reliability or durability, although the first signs of dissatisfaction, mainly related to the battery discharging—a global problem for Toyotas—are already surfacing. The cars won't start after a few days of being idle. Minor, sporadic electrical faults are other issues, a departure from Yaris's traditionally strong point.

The 1.0 engine, almost wholly carried over from its predecessor, has the same power output of 72 HP. It's also a design shared with Aygo. Durable and economical, but such versions were primarily purchased by fleets. Unfortunately, it sometimes encounters issues with the manual gearbox mechanism's operation, which isn't very precise.

The 1.5 unit with 125 HP is intriguing. With a manual gearbox, it feels pretty robust. Especially since the driving qualities of this generation's Yaris are the best yet. The hybrid version, with 116 HP, remains the standout option of this Yaris instalment.

More modern and economical, the hybrid operates in a way that might not be everyone's liking. The buzzing three-cylinder engine is one thing, but combined with a continuously variable transmission, it can be unpleasant for some. However, achieving a fuel consumption of about 4 litres per 100 kilometres in summer is possible, although in winter, it is possible to prepare for around 5.9 to 7 litres per 100 kilometres.

One cannot overlook the Cross variant, a successful and aesthetically pleasing urban crossover that performs well in all conditions—not off-road. Unlike the classic Yaris, it's available with all-wheel drive.

Prices of these cars start from about CAD 14,625 but expect to pay at least CAD 19,500 for a hybrid. That's a considerable sum for a vehicle of this class. A few years ago, such an amount could have bought a new B and C-segment car. Thus, a used Yaris IV doesn't seem tempting, as you can also buy a good Yaris III for much less or a Suzuki Swift from the same year but with significantly lower mileage.

Buying a first-generation Yaris makes sense if you're looking for a cheap yet reliable car. If your budget is above CAD 3,250, it's already worth considering, negotiating, and buying a Yaris II. It's a more spacious and much more modern car. It can efficiently function as a family car and is suitable for longer trips.

The third generation signifies a considerable technological leap. Multimedia features (though they sporadically appeared already in the second generation), safety systems, and rich equipment are often included. In addition, the more expensive versions are nicely constructed with quality materials for this class. It drives well and has strong engines. The significant price range also offers various configurations, years, and mileage. For instance, starting in 2020, an excellent, well-equipped Yaris III can be bought for about CAD 3,250 to CAD 4,875 less than a similarly equipped new-generation Yaris IV.

A fourth-generation Yaris as a used car is still too expensive; if long trips are not frequent, it might not be worth the purchase. Of course, personal preference matters because the car looks much better than its predecessor, but it should also be in an excellent configuration. The Yaris III is the best option for balancing practical characteristics and price, up to about CAD $13,000, while the Yaris II is the top suggestion for those seeking a decent small car for up to about CAD 6,500.