Toyota Yaris Review (1999 to 2006)

Quick Summary

If you want the best used supermini around, look no further. Prices are getting reasonable and what you see with a Yaris really is what you get. Every magazine and newspaper review to date has trumpeted the Yaris' ability. Believe them.

Overall:

Models Covered:(3/5dr hatchback 1.0, 1.3 petrol [S, GS, GLS, SR, CDX, T-Sport])

SIMPLY THE BEST

The Toyota Yaris is arguably the finest car of its generation. Winner of the 2000 European Car of the Year award, it manages to combine frankly amazing packaging with sparkling driveability and pert good looks. It's a car that is genuinely difficult to pick fault with and as a used buy is one of the most bulletproof purchases it's possible to make. All models and both engine choices are worthwhile and combine the ease and convenience of a citycar with the more relaxed major road manners of a supermini.
Used Toyota Yaris for sale

History of the Yaris

The achievements of the Toyota designers and engineers tasked with producing the Yaris are put into even sharper relief when you consider that its predecessor was the less than impressive Starlet. This model finally became a black hole in summer 1999, whereupon the Yaris rapidly became the brightest star in the supermini universe. Initially available with only a 1.0-litre powerplant, the range was soon supplemented by 1.3-litre versions. Trim levels ran from S (1.0-litre only) through GS, GLS and SR (1.3-litre only) up to the range-topping CDX. The larger engine also enabled Toyota to offer the Yaris with an automatic transmission option. This was a high-tech four-speed unit that halved the Starlet auto's gearchange time. Other variations included the single-spec Yaris Verso with its more versatile bodyshape (introduced in early 2000) and the potent Yaris T Sport (introduced in Spring 2001).The Yaris range was facelifted in early 2003 with revised headlamps, tail lights, front grille and bumpers. Interior quality was also boosted and equipment levels were reappraised. A new 1.3-litre engine was introduced and, in line with the majority of the Toyota range, out went the GLS, SR, S trim levels and in came designations such as T2, T3 and T Spirit. An all new and considerably bigger Yaris arrived to replace this model at the beginning of 2006.
Used Toyota Yaris for sale

Toyota Yaris Road Test

The availability of the larger 1.3-litre engine broadens the appeal of the range considerably, giving the Yaris superior mileage covering abilities. Rest to sixty takes 11.7s (as opposed to 14.1s for the 1.0-litre) on the way to 109mph (96mph). Yet fuel consumption doesn't suffer too greatly (the combined consumption figure is 47.8mpg). The slick four-speed automatic transmission available on the 1.3-litre model makes nose-to-tail work almost pleasurable. That said, this is not really a car intended to satisfy the keen driver. While handling is safe and competent, it doesn't really set the world alight. But to be honest, that's not the reason you'll be buying the Yaris. Practicality, reliability and value for money are what are important to city dwelling drivers. The pick of the engines is probably the D4D diesel with its superior fuel economy.
Used Toyota Yaris for sale

Buying a Toyota Yaris

The Yaris is too new for any significant faults to emerge, and being a Toyota, it's likely to remain a long time until they do. Insist on a fully stamped up service record.
Used Toyota Yaris for sale

Toyota Yaris Typical Pricing

Expect bids to start at around £2,400 for the 1.0 S, on a T-plate, or £2,700 for a GS three door. The five-door GS will fetch around £2,800, again on the 1999 T plate, whilst a GLS three-door of similar vintage will command £3,000. The plush CDX opens at £3,300. Insurance for the Yaris 1.0-litre is Group 2, with CDX models just tipping into Group 3. The 1.3-litre models is Group 4, with SR and CDX models being rated as Group 5.
Used Toyota Yaris for sale

Toyota Yaris Parts

(approx based on a 1999 Yaris 1.0 S) No hideous shocks in store for the Yaris owner here. Toyotas are so reliable that it's hard to see how the dealers make a profit on spares that include a clutch assembly at £150, starter motors from £100, headlamps from £60 and brake pads at £21 a set. A new radiator for the Yaris will be around £200, whilst an exhaust system is in the region of £250. It's a long time since received wisdom held that Toyota spares were some of the costliest around.
Used Toyota Yaris for sale