Toyota Yaris Used Car Review 2011-2020

Overview

Pontential issues to be aware of?

This generation presents some unique characteristics that buyers should be aware of. Some common pontnetial issues identified are:

• The early models (2011-2014) suffer from a rather disappointing touchscreen system in Icon trim and above – it’s frustratingly slow and often glitchy compared to rivals like the Ford Fiesta.
• The 1.0-litre engine, while economical, simply doesn’t cope well with modern fuel quality, making it a poor choice for motorway driving.
• The batteries typically begin showing signs of degradation around 80,000 miles, with the regenerative braking system often requiring calibration at about 60,000 miles.
• Build quality varies notably across this generation. Pre-2014 models frequently display loose interior trim and occasional water ingress issues through the A-pillar, while later models prove substantially more robust.

Available Models

Reliability

Why you can trust this car?

The 2011-2020 Toyota Yaris stands as one of the most reliable used superminis, ranking 7th overall in What Car?’s reliability survey and topping the small car category. Its dependability is proven by numerous examples exceeding 200,000 miles with basic maintenance.

While hybrid models may need battery attention after 80,000 miles and early CVT transmissions (2011-2013) can be jerky, most issues are minor and predictable. Post-2014 models are particularly robust.

The key to this Yaris’s legendary reliability is proper maintenance and complete service history, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing trouble-free ownership.

What rarely goes wrong?

The 2011-2020 Toyota Yaris has earned its reputation for exceptional reliability, with both 1.3L and 1.5L petrol engines routinely exceeding 200,000 miles without major issues.

The timing chain design eliminates costly belt replacements, and manual transmissions show remarkable durability.

Common minor issues include air conditioning effectiveness (£60-80 fix), interior trim rattles in pre-2014 models, and door seal wear (£100-150). While hybrid batteries might need replacement after 8+ years (£1,500+) and early CVT transmissions can be problematic, these serious issues rarely occur.

Real owner experience

Is this the most reliable in this generation?

The Toyota Yaris shows distinct reliability patterns across its generations.

The 2011-2020 models, particularly the 2014-2016 1.3L variants, prove exceptional with many reaching 200,000+ miles trouble-free and ranking top in various small car reliability survey.

This builds on the “bulletproof” reputation of the 2005-2011 generation, known for its mechanical simplicity.

While the current 2020-present generation maintains Toyota’s quality standards, early reports show some hybrid system concerns, though it’s too soon for definitive reliability judgments.

Comparision with the latest gen in terms of reliability

The 2020-Present Yaris shows key reliability differences compared to its predecessor. While the latest generation boasts improved build quality and better corrosion resistance, its hybrid system introduces new complexities.

Owner reports highlight hybrid calibration issues and warning light triggers requiring dealer visits, though core mechanical components prove robust.

The 2011-2020 generation earned its reputation through simple, proven mechanics and documented longevity, regularly achieving 200,000+ miles reliably.

Ownership Cost and Price Value Assessment

Here is the total ownership cost breakdown for the Toyota Yaris (2011-2020):

Holding it’s value?

The Toyota Yaris demonstrates exceptional value retention compared to its competitors and across generations, with the 2011-2020 model retaining 50-55% of its value after three years – significantly better than key rivals.

A 2014 model originally priced at £14,990 would still command £7,500-8,000 by 2017, with good examples currently fetching £4,500-6,500. This performance notably outshines the Ford Fiesta (losing 55-60%) and Vauxhall Corsa (60-65% loss), while matching the traditionally strong VW Polo (50-55% depreciation).

Looking across generations, the 2005-2011 models show remarkable value stability due to their mechanical simplicity, with well-maintained examples still worth £2,000-3,000 despite high mileages.

The current 2020-present generation appears to be setting new standards for value retention, with early data showing hybrid variants maintaining 58-62% of their value after the first year. This strong performance reflects Toyota’s reputation for reliability and the increasing market demand for hybrid technology

The cheapest models to maintain

The 2014-2016 Yaris 1.3L Icon stands as the cheapest model to maintain in the 2011-2020 generation. Annual servicing costs £140-180, with standard service parts readily available and a 20% discount through Toyota’s 5+ Club after five years.

Running costs average £300-400 annually including maintenance, with 45-48mpg fuel economy and insurance group 8 rating.

This model avoids the complexity of hybrid systems and the inefficiency of 1.0L engines, while its timing chain design eliminates expensive belt changes.

Cheapest models based on the total ownership costs?

The 2014-2016 Yaris 1.3L Icon delivers the lowest total ownership costs in the 2011-2020 generation. Initial purchase prices now range £4,500-6,500, with strong value retention slowing depreciation.

Running costs average £1,500-1,800 annually (including fuel at 45-48mpg, £140-180 services, and £30-125 road tax). Insurance falls in group 8, keeping premiums affordable

While hybrid models offer better fuel economy and 1.0L versions have lower purchase prices, the 1.3L’s balance of purchase cost, fuel efficiency, and maintenance expenses makes it the most cost-effective over a 3-5 year ownership period.

Total annual ownership cost typically averages £2,500-3,000 including depreciation, significantly less than contemporary rivals.

Which model in this generation has the lowest depreciation?

In our comprehensive review of the Toyota Yaris 2011-2020 generation, we confidently identify the post-2014 1.5-litre Petrol Manual, particularly in Icon or Design trims, as the most depreciation-resistant variant.

Competitors

In the competitive small car segment during the 2011-2020 period, the Toyota Yaris faced formidable rivals that challenged its market position. The Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo emerged as the primary competitors, offering superior handling dynamics and more engaging driving experiences.

The Mazda 2 provided a more compelling package with its refined character, while the Honda Jazz Hybrid represented a direct alternative in the hybrid supermini market.

The Kia Rio also distinguished itself by effectively balancing urban efficiency with broader driving capabilities.

Compare the running cost.

In the Toyota Yaris 2011-2020 generation, running costs varied significantly across different engine options. The 1.4 D4-D diesel emerged as the most economical, delivering an impressive 72.4 mpg with low 99g/km CO2 emissions.

The hybrid model presented an attractive alternative, boasting a claimed 85.6 mpg, though real-world performance settled around 65 mpg. Petrol variants offered competitive efficiency, with the 1.5-litre engine improving fuel economy by 12% compared to its predecessor, achieving 64.5 mpg and 109g/km CO2 emissions.

Toyota’s comprehensive package enhanced the Yaris’s cost-effectiveness, featuring a robust five-year/100,000-mile warranty, renowned reliability, and readily available parts.

The vehicle’s placement in VED band C for the 1.33-litre petrol model and competitive insurance rates further contributed to its economic appeal. While the diesel model provided the most stringent fuel efficiency, the hybrid and 1.5-litre petrol models offered a balanced approach to running costs, making the Yaris an attractive option for budget-conscious drivers seeking a reliable and economical small car.

Honest strength and weaknesses

The Toyota Yaris 2011-2020 generation presents a mixed bag when compared to its competitors. Its hybrid technology was innovative for its time, offering impressive fuel efficiency and low running costs, with a claimed 85.6 mpg.

The powertrain lacks excitement, with a noisy CVT transmission and sluggish performance that falls short of more dynamic rivals like the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo.

The Yaris shines in reliability and practicality, consistently ranking high in dependability surveys. Its interior, while functional, feels less premium compared to the more refined Mazda 2 or Honda Jazz.

The hybrid model’s real-world efficiency (around 65 mpg) and compact urban performance make it an excellent choice for city drivers, but driving enthusiasts will find it less engaging than competitors.

Compared to the Mazda 2’s straightforward approach and the Honda Jazz’s clever packaging, the Yaris sits somewhere in the middle – a dependable, efficient small car that prioritizes practicality over driving excitement.

Its strongest selling points remain its hybrid technology, Toyota’s renowned reliability, and wallet-friendly running costs.

Living With the Car

Our Recommendation and Buying Guide