For fans of compact, fuel-efficient, and reliable vehicles, the Toyota Yaris is often a top consideration. Known for its nimble design, affordability, and hybrid capabilities in certain markets, the Yaris has carved out a prestigious reputation especially in Europe and Asia. But can you get a Toyota Yaris in the US? This article dives deep into the current status of the Yaris in the American automotive market, exploring availability, alternatives, performance data, and what drivers should consider before making a purchase.
Understanding the Current Status of the Toyota Yaris in the US
The short answer is no, Toyota does not currently offer the Yaris as a new vehicle in the United States. The Yaris was discontinued in the US market after the 2020 model year, marking the end of more than a decade of modest sales and occasional praise for its efficiency and simplicity. While the vehicle still thrives in other global markets, Toyota has chosen to focus on other models for the American consumer.
This decision reflects larger trends in the US market. As consumer demand has shifted toward SUVs and CUVs (crossover utility vehicles), compact sedans—including the Yaris—have lost their previous stronghold. Toyota, like many automakers, has responded by streamlining its sedan lineup and focusing investment on more popular vehicle types.
Why Was the Yaris Discontinued in the US?
Understanding the discontinuation of the Toyota Yaris in the US involves analyzing market forces and consumer behavior.
- Market Shift: The US has seen a steep decline in sedan popularity. SUVs and trucks consistently outsell compact cars, prompting automakers to rethink model offerings.
- Competition: Affordable compact cars like the Honda Fit and Chevrolet Sonic also exited the market, reflecting industry-wide struggles in maintaining interest for smaller sedans.
- Production Priorities: Toyota refocused its global manufacturing efforts to serve regions where the Yaris remained popular, such as Europe and Southeast Asia.
What You Can Find Instead of the Yaris
While Toyota ceased US sales of the regular Yaris, it did not eliminate its compact vehicle offerings entirely. The Toyota Corolla remains a popular choice, as it offers similar efficiency and affordability but in a slightly larger, more comfortable form. Additionally, the Corolla hatchback serves as a sporty alternative with more cargo space than the traditional sedan.
Global Differences: Why the Yaris Still Exists Outside the US
The Toyota Yaris isn’t gone; it’s simply not being sold in the US. In fact, the Yaris is currently in its fourth generation globally, enjoying success in countries like the UK, Germany, and Malaysia. Moreover, Toyota has launched a hybrid version of the Yaris, known as the Yaris Hybrid, which delivers strong fuel economy numbers and modern tech features.
Key Features of the International Yaris
The global Yaris model boasts several key features that highlight its value:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Hybrid Technology | Offers a 1.5L hybrid powertrain for improved fuel economy |
| New TNGA Platform | Redesigned chassis for enhanced driving dynamics and safety |
| Class-Leading Efficiency | Can achieve up to 50 mpg in real-world testing (Europe) |
| Modern Interior | Upgraded cabin with digital dash and wireless Apple CarPlay |
Why the International Version Works Better Outside the US
European and Asian markets place a premium on compact, maneuverable city cars. In urban areas where parking is scarce and fuel costs are high, a car like the Yaris makes more sense than in sprawling, highway-heavy regions of the US. This global divergence has led Toyota to offer different vehicle lineups tailored to each region’s needs.
Importing a Toyota Yaris to the US: Is It Possible?
If you’re sold on the appeal of the Toyota Yaris and want to own one in the US, there is a potential—but complex—path: vehicle importing.
Legal Requirements for Importing a Foreign Vehicle
Importing a Yaris is not impossible, but it involves navigating a mixture of federal and state regulations:
- Transportation and Safety Regulations: Vehicles imported into the US must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
- Environmental Standards: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and local state emissions offices require compliance for registered vehicles. California, for example, enforces emissions standards that could present an issue for a non-US-approved Yaris.
- 25-Year Rule: Vehicles older than 25 years can be imported more easily. Thus, a 1998 Yaris could qualify under the “Show and Display” exemption, though modifications may still be needed.
Costs and Feasibility of Importation
Importation isn’t just about jumping through the legal hoops—it also brings a significant cost burden.
| Expense Type | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Purchase Price Abroad | $10,000–$18,000 |
| Shipping Costs | $1,000–$2,000 |
| Import Duties and Fees | $1,000–$3,000 |
| Modification/Recall Compliance | $500–$5,000+ |
In short, expect to spend between $12,000 and $26,000—a tall order when Toyota’s homegrown Corolla starts at just under $20,000 and already meets US standards.
The US Vehicle Market: Yaris Alternatives from Toyota and Others
While the Yaris isn’t available from official dealers, there are several excellent alternatives for those seeking a similar driving experience and value proposition.
Top Toyota Replacements for the Yaris
These models provide efficiency, reliability, and features comparable to what a Yaris offers:
- Toyota Corolla: The most direct replacement in terms of efficiency and value, with a sedan or hatchback choice.
- Toyota GR Corolla: An enthusiast-focused hatchback variant for those who still want performance in a small package.
- Toyota Corolla Cross: A compact SUV derived from the Corolla platform with more cargo and headroom.
Top Competitors from Other Automakers
If you’re open to leaving the Toyota showroom, several other vehicles make strong cases:
| Vehicle | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Honda Fit | Compact hatchback with innovative interior space |
| Hyundai Accent | Value-packed with long warranty and fuel efficiency |
| Subaru Crosstrek | Fuel-efficient compact SUV with AWD and safety tech |
| Kia Rio | Spacious, stylish, and efficient budget-focused compact |
Owning a Discontinued Yaris in the US: Secondary Market Options
Although the Yaris is no longer sold as new in the US, used Yaris models can still be found in good condition due to Toyota’s legendary durability and longevity.
What to Look for When Buying a Used Toyota Yaris
To ensure you’re not just getting any used Yaris, but a quality one, pay attention to these key areas:
- Transmission History: The original continuously variable transmission (CVT) in Yaris models has had mixed reviews. Check service records for any issues or repairs.
- Mileage: Look for models with less than 100,000 miles. Toyota Yaris sedans are known to easily reach 200,000 miles with proper care.
- History Report: Obtain a Carfax or AutoCheck report to ensure no accidents, excessive repairs, or odometer inconsistencies.
- Mechanical Inspection: Always have a certified mechanic perform a check, especially of the brakes, suspension, and exhaust system.
What You Can Expect in Terms of Pricing
Market prices for used Yaris models vary based on condition, trim, mileage, and region:
| Model Year | Average Price (Private Seller) |
|---|---|
| 2018–2020 | $12,000–$16,500 |
| 2015–2017 | $8,500–$12,000 |
| 2012–2014 | $4,500–$8,000 |
Buying a pre-owned Yaris means you are getting a mature, tested product with plenty of online reviews, community forums, and available parts from salvage yards and aftermarket suppliers.
Future Outlook for Small Cars at Toyota
With compact sedans becoming less popular, it’s helpful to look at Texas-based automaker Toyota’s future product plans for hints on whether a Yaris-like small car will return to the US lineup.
Will Toyota Reintroduce a Yaris-Type Vehicle in the US?
At the moment, Toyota does not have plans to bring back a smaller sedan under the Yaris nameplate. However, Toyota has a track record of repurposing global models for the US—such as the GR Corolla (based on the Yaris GR) recently introduced. It may be that Toyota could find a way to offer a sportier interpretation of the Yaris later down the line without using the original branding.
What About Electric Mini Cars?
Electrification might be the future, but in urban compact EV form—like Nissan’s Leaf or Chevrolet Bolt—rather than a gas-powered Yaris. The 2023 Toyota bZ3A mini EV concept teased a potential entry into the segment, but nothing has been officially announced for release in the US as of late 2024.
Conclusion
So, can you get a Toyota Yaris in the US? The answer remains “not directly—Toyota no longer sells the new Yaris within American borders. But options exist for determined buyers, whether through used models on the secondary market, looking toward its close alternative (like the Corolla), or even pursuing importation through significant investment and compliance work.
For most drivers, the Corolla serves as an ideal substitute—larger, reliable, and fuel efficient, and fully compliant with US regulations. However, for enthusiasts, collectors, or those enamored with the global Yaris design and performance, importing or seeking out rare models may offer a fulfilling challenge.
Toyota’s future direction shows innovation and adaptation, with an increasing focus on electrification and SUVs, but for small-car fans, the Yaris remains a benchmark—part of automotive history and perhaps always a favorite among global compact car lovers.
Is the Toyota Yaris still available in the US market?
As of the latest updates, Toyota discontinued the Yaris sedan in the United States after the 2020 model year. This decision was part of Toyota’s broader strategy to shift focus toward SUVs and trucks, which have seen growing consumer demand in recent years. While the sedan version of the Yaris is no longer available at Toyota dealerships in the US, the nameplate continues to appear in other global markets with varying levels of equipment and trim configuration.
However, it’s worth noting that the Yaris hatchback, specifically the GR Yaris, is available through select dealerships, but only in limited quantities. The GR Yaris is a high-performance model developed by Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division and is primarily intended for enthusiasts. While this version is technically available in the US, it’s extremely rare and often subject to waitlists, making it difficult for the average consumer to purchase.
What is the difference between the Yaris sold in the US and other markets?
In the United States, the Toyota Yaris sedan was offered with a standard 1.5L four-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive, and a choice between a five-speed manual and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The vehicle was well known for its affordability, fuel economy, and compact dimensions. However, compared to international variants, the US model was less equipped in terms of features and drivetrain options, such as the lack of all-wheel drive seen in other markets.
Outside the US, particularly in Europe and Japan, the Yaris is offered with a wider array of engine choices, including hybrid powertrains and the aforementioned GR Yaris high-performance model with all-wheel drive and a turbocharged engine. These versions are generally more advanced and tailored to different driving conditions and preferences, which contrasts with the simplicity and practicality-focused Yaris sedan previously available to American buyers.
Can I import a Toyota Yaris from another country to the US?
Importing a Toyota Yaris from another country into the United States is technically possible but subject to strict regulations enforced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Vehicles not originally built for the US market may not meet federal safety, bumper, or emissions standards. Therefore, any imported Yaris must undergo extensive modifications and certification processes before it can be legally driven in the US.
In addition to compliance issues, importing a non-US-spec Yaris can be costly due to customs duties, shipping fees, and potential retrofitting requirements. Even the GR Yaris, which appeals to performance car fans, must be brought in under the EPA and NHTSA’s 25-year rule or through low-volume manufacturer status to be legally driven on American roads. As such, importing a Yaris is generally not recommended unless it’s for a rare or collectible model.
What replaced the Toyota Yaris in the US lineup?
Toyota decided to discontinue the Yaris sedan in the US and replace it with the new hybrid-only Corolla Cross and repositioned the Yaris hatchback from overseas markets as a spiritual successor, albeit in a very limited form. Instead of rebuilding the Yaris concept for the US market, Toyota chose to shift consumer interest toward models that align with current economic and lifestyle trends, such as the rise in preference for compact SUVs and hybrid vehicles.
The Corolla Cross, along with the traditional Corolla, now fills the small car niche while offering features and versatility that appeal to a broader audience. Toyota’s approach was to enhance fuel efficiency and vehicle capability through hybrid technology and increased ground clearance—features consumers often requested from the Yaris but are better delivered in the Corolla’s newer, more advanced platform.
Why did Toyota stop selling the Yaris in the US?
Toyota’s decision to stop selling the Yaris sedan in the US was primarily driven by a shift in consumer preferences, with more buyers gravitating toward SUVs, CUVs (crossover utility vehicles), and trucks. The compact sedan segment, including the Yaris, was declining sharply in sales and profitability compared to larger, more versatile models. Toyota sought to optimize its production and sales focus by eliminating underperforming models from its lineup.
Additionally, the brand was preparing to invest more heavily in electrification and hybrid technologies. Rather than allocate resources to modernize the Yaris sedan, Toyota chose to focus on models that could better accommodate evolving powertrains and consumer expectations. By discontinuing lower-margin vehicles like the Yaris, Toyota can streamline its operations and align its offerings with emerging market trends, such as sustainability and multi-purpose design.
Is the GR Yaris a good alternative for US buyers who miss the Yaris sedan?
The GR Yaris, built by Toyota Gazoo Racing, delivers an exciting, rally-bred driving experience, but it was not designed as a practical replacement for the Yaris sedan in the US market. It features a 1.6L turbocharged engine, a three-door hatchback layout, and an advanced all-wheel-drive system tailored to performance enthusiasts. Compared to the fuel-efficient Yaris sedan, the GR variant prioritizes speed, handling, and driving engagement, not affordability or fuel economy.
While the GR Yaris is admired for its rarity, engineering excellence, and motorsport-inspired design, it’s not ideal for the casual or economy-focused buyer that previously enjoyed the Yaris sedan. Toyota has made the GR variant available in the US, but only in limited quantities—making it one of the most sought-after and exclusive Toyota models in recent years. For those seeking excitement and a performance-oriented drive, the GR Yaris is a thrilling but impractical replacement.
What other compact cars from Toyota are available in the US as alternatives to the Yaris?
Although the Yaris sedan is no longer available, Toyota offers several compact cars that provide excellent alternatives. The Toyota Corolla is the obvious direct replacement, offering similar fuel economy, compact dimensions, and affordability but with more standard features and higher-quality interior materials. It’s also offered with a hybrid version (Corolla Hybrid) for improved efficiency.
Another alternative is the Toyota GR86, a sporty rear-wheel-drive coupe that appeals to buyers who previously desired the Yaris as a starting point into Toyota ownership. While more expensive and focused on performance, the GR86 provides a different kind of value for those prioritizing driving dynamics over daily comfort. Additionally, the Corolla Cross, a compact SUV, serves as a versatile option for those wanting more space and utility than a traditional sedan could provide.