Is the Toyota Yaris front wheel drive or rear wheel drive?

The standard Toyota Yaris is front-wheel drive. A few special variants—most notably the GR Yaris and certain Yaris Cross models with AWD—offer all-wheel drive.

Drivetrain panorama across the Yaris lineup

The Yaris lineup is built around efficiency and compact practicality, which is why front-wheel drive is the default configuration for the majority of models. All-wheel drive is reserved for a small set of high-performance or crossover variants, providing better traction in poor weather or on rough surfaces. Below is a quick guide to the main configurations you’ll encounter.

Key drivetrain configurations you’ll encounter by model type:

• Regular Yaris hatchback/sedan (most markets) — front-wheel drive (FWD)


• GR Yaris — all-wheel drive (AWD) via Toyota’s GR-Four system


• Yaris Cross — available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (AWD-i) on hybrid versions

In practice, the standard Yaris is FWD; all-wheel drive is limited to the GR Yaris and certain Yaris Cross configurations with AWD-i. If you’re shopping, check the exact trim and market to confirm the drivetrain.

Variant spotlight

GR Yaris: the high-performance AWD

The GR Yaris is Toyota’s rally-inspired variant, introduced to deliver serious performance. It uses a turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine and a dedicated all-wheel-drive system (GR-Four) that distributes torque across the front and rear axles for improved grip and handling. This is a purpose-built, enthusiast-focused model rather than a typical daily driver, and AWD is a defining feature here.

Yaris Cross: AWD-i in hybrids

The Yaris Cross expands the Yaris family into a compact SUV, with several markets offering an all-wheel-drive option on hybrid versions. The AWD-i system uses an electric rear motor to drive the rear wheels when needed, improving traction in slippery conditions while preserving efficiency. Some non-hybrid trims remain FWD depending on market.

Regular Yaris: front-wheel drive by default

The baseline Yaris hatchback and sedan models are designed around light weight and fuel efficiency, with front-wheel drive as the standard configuration. This keeps costs down and maximizes urban practicality, which is why FWD is so prevalent across the model range.

Regional notes: availability by market

Drivetrain options vary by country and model year. Europe and parts of Asia have seen robust availability of GR Yaris and Yaris Cross with AWD-i, while some markets offer FWD-only trims for the regular Yaris. If you need all-wheel drive, verify the exact model, trim, and market before purchase.

Summary

Across the Toyota Yaris family, front-wheel drive is the standard configuration for most models, delivering efficiency and compact practicality. All-wheel drive is reserved for select variants, most notably the GR Yaris and Yaris Cross-equipped hybrids with AWD-i. For buyers, the key is to identify the specific variant and market to confirm the drivetrain.

What is the common problem in Toyota Yaris?

Common problems reported for the Toyota Yaris include issues with the automatic transmission (especially older models), power steering failure, air conditioning problems, and paint peeling, particularly on the roof and hood. Other frequently cited issues are engine and transmission problems, such as engine mounts, clutch slip, and rough idling. Some models have also been subject to significant recalls, including issues with airbag inflators and steering components.
 
This video discusses common problems and weaknesses of the used Toyota Yaris (I generation): 59sMasterCarsProYouTube · Jul 20, 2023
Powertrain 

• Automatic Transmission: Can slip or have issues shifting, especially in older models, sometimes linked to a lack of regular fluid changes. 
• Clutch: Slipping is a common issue, often indicated by high RPMs without corresponding speed, a burning smell, or a change in pedal height. 
• Engine Mounts: Some owners report vibrations from damaged engine mounts. 
• Rough Idling: Can occur due to dirty throttle bodies or injectors. Cleaning and replacing spark plugs can help. 
• Oil Consumption: Some older models, particularly pre-2015, may burn more oil than expected. 

Steering and suspension

• Power Steering: Malfunctions have been reported, leading to steering difficulties. 
• Steering Wheel: Some owners report a loose or vibrating steering wheel, or a noisy steering system. 
• Wheel Hubs: Noise, such as squealing, has been linked to faulty front and rear wheel hubs. 

Electrical and accessories

• Air Conditioning: Malfunctions, such as leaks or the system not turning on, have been reported. 
• Airbags: Faulty inflators have been the cause of a major recall. 
• Headlights: Malfunction of headlight beams has been noted. 
• Media Computer: Issues with the radio, GPS, and Bluetooth have occurred. 
• Alarm System: Problems with alarm malfunction have been reported. 

Body and paint

• Paint Peeling: A common problem is clear coat peeling, especially on the roof and hood. 
• Scratches: Scratches can appear on the dashboard, around door locks, and in the trunk. 

You can watch this video to learn about common problems of the Toyota Yaris iA: 59sSimple Mechanic AdviceYouTube · Dec 14, 2024

Why did Toyota discontinue the Yaris?

Toyota discontinued the Yaris primarily due to declining sales of small cars as consumers shifted to larger SUVs and crossovers. Additionally, the cost to meet new safety and emissions regulations for a new generation made the vehicle less profitable, especially in the competitive U.S. market where sales had already plummeted. Toyota is also focusing resources on its hybrid and electric vehicle development, with some markets introducing the smaller Yaris Cross SUV as a replacement.
 

• Declining market demand: The overall popularity of subcompact cars waned as many consumers in markets like the US began preferring larger vehicles like SUVs and crossovers. 
• Profitability concerns: Making a new-generation Yaris compliant with modern safety and emissions standards would have made the entry-level model too expensive to build profitably. 
• Strategic shift: Toyota redirected its resources and strategy towards hybrid and electric vehicles and larger models. In some regions, this meant launching the Yaris Cross SUV to fill the gap left by the discontinued Yaris sedan and hatchback. 
• Model platform changes: The US market Yaris had been a rebadged Mazda2 for several years, indicating a lack of investment in its own subcompact platform. 

What is the best year of the Toyota Yaris?

The best Toyota Yaris year depends on your priorities, but generally, the 2018 model is often cited as a great value due to its refreshed styling and strong reliability. For the newest features, including the safety-focused TNGA platform, consider a 2020 model or later if your budget allows. Pre-2016 models can also be good, especially those with the 1.5L engine, but may lack modern tech and safety features. 
Top recommendations

• For a great balance of value and style: The 2018 Yaris is a top choice. It received a stylish facelift and is praised for its reliability and value. 
• For the latest features and safety: Look for a 2020 Yaris or newer. These models are built on the TNGA platform, offering a stiffer body and including Toyota Safety Sense active safety tech as standard. 
• For budget-friendly reliability: The 2015 Yaris is also a strong contender, especially for those who want to stick with a reliable and economical car. 
• For the most reliable engine: The 1.3L VVT-i engine used in some models is known for its popularity and dependability. 

Important considerations

• Maintenance history: Regardless of the year, always check the maintenance history. A well-maintained Yaris from any year is a valuable and dependable car. 
• Feature availability: Pre-2016 models may lack modern tech like daytime running lights and updated stereos. 
• Body style: The sedan version was discontinued in the US after the 2011 model year and was replaced by a hatchback body style from 2012-2018. 

Avoid

• Avoid pre-2010 models without stability control, as earlier versions can be harder to handle in emergency situations. 
• Be aware that some post-2022 models have switched to a 1.2T turbo engine, which may have different maintenance needs. 

Is a Toyota Yaris front-wheel or rear wheel drive?

Toyota Yaris (XP210)

Toyota Yaris (XP210/MXPA1#/MXPH1#)
Class	Subcompact car / Supermini (B)
Body style	5-door hatchback
Layout	Front-engine, front-wheel-drive Front-engine, four-wheel-drive (Japan)
Platform	TNGA: GA-B