Is the Toyota Yaris all wheel drive?
In most markets the Toyota Yaris hatchback is front-wheel drive and does not offer an all-wheel-drive option. Some markets do offer all-wheel drive on the Yaris Cross, typically the hybrid variant equipped with Toyota’s E-Four AWD system that can power the rear wheels when needed.
Understanding the Yaris lineup
The Toyota Yaris name covers two distinct vehicles: a compact hatchback and the taller Yaris Cross crossover. Availability and drivetrain options vary by region and model year, with all-wheel drive being relatively rare in the Yaris family.
Here’s how the main Yaris variants stack up in terms of drivetrain options:
- Yaris hatchback: Front-wheel drive (FWD) across most markets; Toyota does not typically offer a factory all-wheel-drive option for the hatchback.
- Yaris Cross Hybrid: Available with all-wheel drive in many markets via Toyota’s E-Four AWD system, which can send power to the rear wheels when required.
- Yaris Cross Petrol (non-hybrid) and certain regional trims: In some markets these may be 2WD only; AWD availability is generally tied to the hybrid version in regions where offered.
In short, if you’re seeking AWD within the Yaris family, the Yaris Cross Hybrid with E-Four is the common route in markets that support it. The traditional Yaris hatchback remains a front-drive model in most regions.
Market-by-market snapshot
Availability of AWD under the Yaris umbrella varies by country and model year. The following broad patterns reflect typical arrangements as of 2024–2025.
- Europe and parts of Asia: Yaris Cross Hybrid with E-Four AWD is commonly offered on several trims; the hatchback Yaris is generally FWD only.
- Japan and the broader Asia-Pacific region: Yaris Cross Hybrid with E-Four AWD is available in many markets; some regions offer 2WD versions of the crossover, while AWD is tied to the hybrid option.
- North America: The Yaris nameplate has been largely phased out in the U.S. and Canada, and there is no current Yaris model with AWD available in those markets.
Customers should check with local dealers for the exact trim combinations and availability in their country, as Toyota periodically updates its lineup.
AWD systems in Toyota’s small-car family
In Toyota’s current approach, all-wheel drive on models like the Yaris Cross typically appears as an optional hybrid system (E-Four or AWD-i) rather than a separate gasoline-only AWD setup. This means AWD capability is usually tied to the hybrid powertrain and is designed to engage the rear axle as needed, rather than providing permanent rear-wheel drive.
Summary
Overall, the Toyota Yaris hatchback itself is not offered with all-wheel drive in most markets. If you want AWD within the Yaris family, your practical option is the Yaris Cross Hybrid with E-Four, where available. Availability varies by region and year, and the Yaris nameplate has limited or no presence in some markets (notably North America) as of the latest model cycles. Always confirm current specifications with a local Toyota dealer.
