What was the last year Toyota made Yaris?
There isn’t a single global final year for the Yaris; in the major markets the last model year was around 2019–2020, with some regional variants extending into 2021. If you specify a country or region, I can confirm the exact last year for that market.
Below is a regional breakdown of how the Yaris nameplate came to an end in different parts of the world, reflecting the latest publicly available information as of 2024–2025.
Regional snapshot
The following sections summarize the most widely reported last production years for Yaris versions in key markets. The exact year can vary by model variant and local timing.
North America
- Last model year: 2019 (Yaris hatchback offered in the United States and Canada ended after the 2019 model year).
In North America, Toyota did not carry the Yaris hatchback into the 2020 model year, effectively ending the Yaris nameplate in that market after 2019. Market-specific offerings and branding varied, with the lineup shifting to other compact/hatchback options over the following years.
Europe
- Last model year: 2020 (the Yaris hatchback continued through the 2020 model year; 2021 brought related crossovers and refreshed lineups using different branding).
Europe saw the Yaris nameplate continue through 2020, with the introduction of the Yaris Cross in parallel. By 2021, the traditional Yaris hatchback had largely been supplanted in many markets by the crossovers and newer small-car offerings, though local availability varied by country.
Asia-Pacific and other markets
- Last model year: generally 2020–2021 depending on country (timing varied widely; some markets saw the Yaris name retired earlier, others continued small-scale availability through 2021).
Across Asia-Pacific, Africa, and some other regions, the end of the Yaris nameplate occurred at different times, often aligned with local model replacements like longer-running hatchbacks, crossovers, or rebadged variants. Market-specific calendars led to a range rather than a single global end date.
Summary
In short, there isn’t one global last year for the Toyota Yaris. The model was phased out at different times by region, with major markets typically ending around 2019–2020, and some markets extending into 2021 or shifting to Yaris Cross or other successors. If you can name the country or region you’re interested in, I can provide a precise last-year date for that market.
Why did Toyota discontinue the Yaris?
The Toyota Yaris was discontinued in many markets due to declining sales as consumers shifted to larger SUVs and a strategic shift by Toyota to focus on SUVs and hybrid/electric vehicles. In North America, the discontinuation was also because the last generation was a rebadged Mazda2, which wasn't selling well enough to justify continued production. For newer, globally available Yaris models, safety and emissions regulations made it too expensive to develop a new, affordable entry-level version.
Reasons for discontinuation
- Declining small car sales: In North America and other markets, sales of small cars like the Yaris had been plummeting for years as consumer preference shifted towards larger vehicles, such as SUVs and crossovers.
- Strategic company shift: Toyota decided to focus its resources on its SUV lineup and other fuel-efficient models, including hybrids and electric vehicles. The platform and some engines from the Yaris were adapted for use in other models, such as the Corolla.
- Cost of new regulations: For newer generations, the cost of re-engineering the Yaris to meet new safety and emissions standards made it too expensive to produce as an entry-level, budget-friendly car.
- Market-specific issues: In some regions, the Yaris faced tough competition from other models in its segment, leading to slow sales. In the US, the final Yaris was a rebadged Mazda2 that sold poorly compared to other models in the Toyota lineup, such as the Corolla.
- Inability to justify investment: The low sales volume made it difficult to justify the investment in a new model generation, especially when compared to the performance of other Toyota vehicles.
What is the common problem with 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
What replaced the Toyota Yaris?
Like the current Yaris sedan, it's looking like the 2020 Yaris hatch will also be built by Mazda.
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.
