Why was the Toyota Yaris discontinued?
The Toyota Yaris was discontinued in several major markets due to weak demand for a small hatchback and a strategic shift toward crossovers and electrified models.
Across regions, Toyota has largely retired the traditional Yaris hatchback where customer preferences have shifted toward taller, more versatile vehicles and hybrids. In North America, the Yaris lineup faded away after the 2020 period, while in Europe and other markets the brand has leaned into the Yaris Cross and other hybrid options, effectively phasing out the classic Yaris in favor of crossovers and more efficient drivetrains. Below is a breakdown of what happened and why, by region, along with the broader implications for buyers.
Regional status and reasons
To illustrate how the discontinuation played out around the world, here are the main regional developments and the factors driving them:
- North America: The traditional Yaris hatchback was withdrawn from the U.S. and Canadian lineups after the 2020 model year, with Toyota steering buyers toward the Corolla Hatchback and other compact crossovers. This reflected weak demand for subcompact sedans/hatchbacks and a strategic pivot to models with broader consumer appeal.
- Europe and other markets: The Yaris name lives on primarily as a hybrid hatchback and, increasingly, as part of the small-Yaris Cross family. Toyota has emphasized electrified crossovers and the Yaris Cross in many regions, sometimes phasing out the conventional Yaris hatchback in favor of a taller, more versatile lineup.
- Latin America and select Asia-Pacific markets: Availability varies by country, but the broader trend mirrors a shift away from the standalone Yaris hatchback toward crossovers and hybrid options, with regional differences in how the nameplate is used.
These regional shifts reflect Toyota’s broader automotive strategy: prioritize models with longer-term demand, capitalize on hybridization, and simplify the lineup to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
Timeline and notable milestones
Key moments illustrate how Toyota reorganized its small-car offerings in response to market demand and product strategy:
- North America plus Canada: Discontinuation of the standalone Yaris hatchback and, in practice, reduced availability of the Yaris sedan in favor of Corolla-based models and other compact crossovers.
- Introduction and expansion of the Yaris Cross: The Yaris Cross arrived in several regions as a compact crossover, shifting emphasis away from the traditional Yaris hatchback and aligning with rising demand for higher-riding vehicles.
- Europe and Asia-Pacific: The Yaris name continues in hybrid form or as part of a crossovers-focused lineup, with some markets gradually phasing out the classic Yaris hatchback in favor of vertical integration with crossovers and electrified variants.
These milestones show Toyota’s intent to consolidate around crossovers and electrified models, while keeping the Yaris badge where it fits within regional strategy and consumer demand.
What this means for buyers today
If you’re shopping for a Toyota subcompact or a small, city-friendly option, the current landscape differs by market:
- In the United States and Canada: The Yaris is no longer sold as a new model. Prospective buyers typically consider the Corolla Hatchback, Corolla Cross, or other compact crossovers and hybrids.
- In Europe and select markets: The Yaris family persists in some form—often as a hybrid hatchback complemented by the Yaris Cross—so buyers may still encounter the Yaris name, though the emphasis is on electrified crossovers.
- In other regions: Availability depends on local plans; some markets retain smaller Toyota hatchbacks, while others steer buyers toward crossovers and hybrid options.
For current owners, maintenance and parts support remains available in markets where the Yaris was sold, but future model choices may favor crossovers and hybrid variants rather than a standalone Yaris hatchback.
Summary
The Toyota Yaris was discontinued in several major markets as Toyota shifted its focus toward crossovers and electrified models, reflecting broader consumer demand and a push for more versatile, efficient vehicles. North America saw the classic Yaris exit the lineup, while Europe and other regions leaned into the Yaris Cross and hybrid variants. For buyers, this means a move toward Corolla-based options, crossovers, and hybrids in many regions, with the Yaris badge surviving primarily where electrified crossovers are emphasized.
What is the common problem with Toyota Yaris?
Common problems with the Toyota Yaris
A diagnostic check may be required to pinpoint the issue in some cases. Rough idling: This was commonly reported in both petrol and hybrid models and is often due to dirty throttle bodies or fuel injectors. Some diesel models also report engine warning lights due to misfires.
What replaced the Toyota Yaris?
Like the current Yaris sedan, it's looking like the 2020 Yaris hatch will also be built by Mazda.
Did Toyota bring back the Yaris?
Both Yaris and Yaris Hatchback have been discontinued, making 2020 the last model year for each vehicle. If you're a current Yaris or Yaris Hatchback owner, you'll still receive great service from your local Toyota Service Center.
What was the worst year for a Toyota Yaris?
For this reason, CarComplaints gave the 2008 Toyota Yaris the distinction as the worst model year. The 2008 model suffered from peeling clear coats and paint like the previous year. Despite proper maintenance and storage, disappointed owners have reported severe peeling of the coat and paint.
