When the 2020 Toyota Yaris arrived, it presented a fascinating proposition in the subcompact car segment. It wore the trusted Toyota badge, yet underneath, it was a completely different machine—a cleverly rebadged and re-tuned Mazda2, a car celebrated for its spirited driving dynamics. This unique partnership resulted in a vehicle that offered Toyota’s reputation for reliability with a dash of driving fun often missing from the category. But for savvy buyers, both then and now, the critical question remains: How much is the 2020 Toyota Yaris?
The answer isn’t a single number. It’s a story of original sticker prices, trim level features, and the various market forces that dictate its value today as a sought-after used car. This comprehensive guide will break down the original pricing structure of the 2020 Yaris, explore the factors that influence its current cost, and analyze its overall value proposition to help you determine if it’s the right investment for your needs.
Original MSRP: What the 2020 Yaris Cost Brand New
To understand the current used market price, we must first look at the starting point: the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) when the 2020 Yaris was sold new. Toyota offered the Yaris in two body styles—a classic four-door sedan and a stylish five-door hatchback. The pricing was structured across three distinct trim levels for the sedan (L, LE, XLE) and two for the hatchback (LE, XLE), ensuring a clear hierarchy of features and cost.
It’s important to note that these prices did not include the mandatory destination, processing, and handling fee, which was approximately $955 at the time. All models came standard with a 106-horsepower 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, though a six-speed manual was a rare option on the base L sedan.
| Body Style | Trim Level | Original MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Sedan | L | $15,650 |
| Sedan | LE | $16,650 |
| Sedan | XLE | $18,750 |
| Hatchback | LE | $17,750 |
| Hatchback | XLE | $18,750 |
The Yaris L: The Value Foundation
The entry-point 2020 Yaris L sedan, starting at $15,650, was anything but a stripped-down penalty box. It set a high bar for the segment by including a remarkable amount of standard technology. Every Yaris L came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This was a massive selling point in 2020, as some far more expensive vehicles still lacked this feature. It also included two USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, and voice recognition.
Even more impressive was the standard safety technology. The Yaris L featured a low-speed pre-collision system, which could automatically apply the brakes if it detected an imminent forward collision at speeds under 18 mph. This level of standard active safety was a standout feature in the economy class. The L trim rode on 15-inch steel wheels, a common sight in base models, but the robust tech and safety package made it an incredible value.
The Yaris LE: The Smart Upgrade
For a modest price increase, the LE trim (starting at $16,650 for the sedan and $17,750 for the hatchback) represented the sweet spot for many buyers. It took everything from the L trim and added a host of desirable convenience and appearance upgrades. The most noticeable change was the switch from steel wheels to more attractive 16-inch dark gray split-spoke alloy wheels, which significantly improved the car’s aesthetic.
Beyond the wheels, the LE trim added practical features like fog lights for better visibility, heated power side mirrors with integrated LED turn signals, and a Smart Key System. This keyless entry and push-button start feature added a touch of modern convenience, allowing drivers to unlock the doors and start the car without ever taking the key fob out of their pocket or bag. For most buyers, the combination of enhanced style and daily usability made the LE a worthwhile step-up.
The Yaris XLE: A Touch of Premium
At the top of the lineup, the XLE trim, priced identically at $18,750 for both the sedan and hatchback, transformed the Yaris into a surprisingly premium subcompact. The XLE was for the buyer who wanted maximum features and comfort in a small, efficient package. It built upon the LE’s foundation with a focus on interior refinement and advanced technology.
Inside, the cloth seats were replaced with sporty and durable leatherette seating surfaces. The driver was treated to a leather-wrapped steering wheel, shift knob, and parking brake handle, elevating the tactile experience. Comfort was further enhanced by an automatic climate control system, which maintained a set temperature without constant fiddling. On the exterior, the XLE distinguished itself with automatic LED headlights for superior illumination, LED daytime running lights, and rain-sensing windshield wipers that automatically adjusted their speed to the intensity of the precipitation.
Beyond the Sticker: What Determines the Used 2020 Yaris Price Today?
While the original MSRP provides a baseline, the price you’ll actually pay for a used 2020 Toyota Yaris today is influenced by a different set of factors. The used car market is dynamic, and understanding these variables is key to finding a fair deal.
Mileage and Condition
These are the two most significant factors affecting a used car’s price. A 2020 Yaris with low mileage, say under 30,000 miles, will command a much higher price than one with 80,000 miles or more. Similarly, a car’s physical and mechanical condition is paramount. A “like-new” Yaris with no scratches, a pristine interior, and a flawless service history will be at the top end of the price spectrum. Conversely, a vehicle with noticeable wear and tear, dings, stains, or a history of accidents will be valued significantly lower. Always insist on a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic.
Trim Level and Body Style
Just as with the original pricing, a higher trim level will mean a higher used price. A used XLE will consistently be more expensive than a comparable LE or L model due to its extensive feature list. Demand for the hatchback versus the sedan can also play a role. In some markets, the hatchback’s added versatility and sportier look make it slightly more desirable and, therefore, a bit more expensive than its sedan counterpart with the same trim and condition.
Geographic Location and Market Demand
Where you live matters. The price of a used 2020 Yaris can fluctuate based on regional supply and demand. In dense urban areas where small, fuel-efficient cars are highly prized, the Yaris may carry a premium. In more rural areas, the demand might be lower, leading to more competitive pricing. It’s always a good idea to check listings in your immediate area as well as neighboring cities to get a sense of the local market.
Vehicle History Report
A clean vehicle history report from a service like CarFax or AutoCheck is non-negotiable for a premium price. These reports reveal crucial information about a car’s past, including accident history, title status (e.g., salvage or rebuilt titles, which drastically reduce value), and reported service records. A car with a clean, one-owner history is the gold standard and will be priced accordingly.
Decoding the Value: Is the 2020 Yaris a Smart Buy?
The true worth of the 2020 Yaris goes far beyond its price tag. Its value is a compelling blend of low running costs, surprising driving pleasure, and a robust set of standard features that has aged remarkably well.
Exceptional Fuel Economy
One of the most significant long-term value propositions of the 2020 Yaris is its outstanding fuel efficiency. Both the sedan and hatchback models with the automatic transmission achieved an EPA-estimated 32 mpg in the city, 40 mpg on the highway, and 35 mpg combined. These stellar numbers mean fewer trips to the gas pump and significant savings over the life of the vehicle. In an era of volatile fuel prices, this efficiency makes the Yaris an incredibly sensible and economical choice for commuting or road trips.
The Mazda Connection: A Driver’s Car in Disguise
This is the secret weapon of the 2020 Yaris. Because it was built on the Mazda2 platform, it inherited a chassis and suspension tuned for responsive handling and driver engagement. Unlike many of its competitors, which prioritized a soft ride above all else, the Yaris feels nimble, agile, and genuinely fun to drive on a winding road. The steering is precise, and the body remains composed through corners. This “fun factor,” combined with a surprisingly high-quality interior filled with soft-touch materials (another Mazda trait), makes the Yaris feel more expensive and special than its price suggests. It delivers an emotional appeal that is rare in the economy car class.
A Strong Foundation of Reliability and Safety
The 2020 Yaris offers a powerful combination of proven mechanicals. The 1.5-liter engine and six-speed automatic transmission are known for their durability and low-maintenance needs. This blend of Mazda’s solid engineering and Toyota’s overarching reputation for quality and reliability gives owners peace of mind. The standard low-speed pre-collision system, while basic by today’s standards, was an advanced feature for its class in 2020 and adds an essential layer of safety for city driving. This makes the Yaris not just a cheap car, but a car that is cheap to own and operate safely.
In conclusion, the price of a 2020 Toyota Yaris is a multi-layered topic. While its original MSRP ranged from the mid-$15,000s to the high-$18,000s, its current value as a used car is a function of mileage, condition, trim, and location. However, the most important takeaway is the vehicle’s incredible overall value. For a reasonable price, you get a subcompact car that is remarkably fuel-efficient, packed with essential modern technology, and—most surprisingly—an absolute joy to drive. It’s a vehicle that punches well above its weight, offering a premium feel and a fun-to-drive nature that make it one of the most compelling and intelligent choices in the used subcompact market today.
What was the original manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the 2020 Toyota Yaris?
The 2020 Toyota Yaris was positioned as an affordable entry point into the Toyota brand, with a starting MSRP that was highly competitive within the subcompact segment. The base Yaris L sedan with a manual transmission started at approximately $15,650, while the automatic version was priced around $16,750. The mid-range LE trim started at about $17,750, and the top-tier XLE trim, which included more premium features, began at roughly $18,750. The Yaris Hatchback was offered in LE and XLE trims, with pricing closely mirroring their sedan counterparts.
When compared to its primary rivals like the Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, and Nissan Versa, the Yaris’s pricing was right in the mix. However, its value proposition was strengthened by a robust set of standard features, even on the base model. While some competitors might have had a slightly lower starting price, they often required moving up to a higher trim level to get features like a touchscreen infotainment system or advanced safety technology, which came standard on every 2020 Yaris.
What makes the 2020 Toyota Yaris a good value for its price?
The 2020 Toyota Yaris delivered exceptional value by offering a surprising number of modern features as standard equipment across all trim levels. Every Yaris came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that included both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a feature that was often an expensive add-on or unavailable in competing base models at the time. Furthermore, it included a standard low-speed pre-collision system, providing a layer of active safety not always found in this budget-friendly class, enhancing its overall value proposition beyond just the sticker price.
Beyond its feature list, the Yaris’s value is rooted in its low cost of ownership. It boasts excellent fuel economy, with EPA estimates reaching up to 40 miles per gallon on the highway, saving owners money at the gas pump over the long term. Built on a platform shared with the Mazda2, the Yaris also benefits from engaging driving dynamics and a well-assembled interior that feels more refined than its price tag suggests. This combination of standard tech, safety, fuel efficiency, and build quality made it a smart financial choice in the subcompact market.
How do the different trim levels of the 2020 Yaris compare in price and features?
The 2020 Toyota Yaris was offered in three distinct trim levels: L, LE, and XLE (the Hatchback model was only available in LE and XLE). The base L trim, starting around $16,750 for the automatic, was impressively equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a low-speed pre-collision system. For an approximate $1,000 premium, the LE trim added significant convenience features, including 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, heated power side mirrors with integrated turn signals, and a Smart Key System with push-button start.
The top-tier XLE trim, which started around $18,750, elevated the Yaris into a more premium subcompact. It built upon the LE’s features by adding automatic climate control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and automatic LED headlights for enhanced comfort and convenience. Inside, the XLE distinguished itself with leatherette seating surfaces and a leather-trimmed steering wheel, giving the cabin a more upscale look and feel. This tiered structure allowed buyers to choose between a well-equipped, budget-friendly option or a more feature-rich vehicle without a dramatic price increase.
What key technology and convenience features were included as standard on the base model?
Even on its most affordable base L trim, the 2020 Toyota Yaris was equipped with a generous suite of standard technology that set it apart in the subcompact class. The centerpiece was a 7-inch touchscreen multimedia system, which featured voice recognition, Bluetooth hands-free phone and music streaming, and two USB ports. Crucially, this system included both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as standard, allowing for seamless smartphone connectivity for navigation, music, and messaging, a feature that provided immense value for modern drivers.
In addition to its infotainment prowess, the base Yaris included several convenience and safety features often reserved for higher trims on competing vehicles. Every model came with remote keyless entry and power windows with a driver-side auto-down function. On the safety front, a standard low-speed pre-collision system was included, which could help mitigate or avoid frontal collisions at city speeds. A six-speaker sound system and steering wheel-mounted audio controls further ensured that even the most budget-conscious buyer received a well-rounded and modern driving experience.
How does the fuel economy of the 2020 Yaris contribute to its overall long-term value?
The 2020 Toyota Yaris was a standout performer in fuel efficiency, a key factor that significantly contributes to its long-term value by reducing ownership costs. When equipped with the popular six-speed automatic transmission, both the sedan and hatchback models achieved an impressive EPA-estimated 32 MPG in the city, 40 MPG on the highway, and 35 MPG combined. These figures placed the Yaris among the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid vehicles in its class, translating directly into substantial savings on fuel expenses over the life of the car.
This excellent fuel economy meant that the Yaris’s value extended far beyond its initial purchase price. For daily commuters or drivers covering long distances, the low and predictable fuel costs made budgeting easier and reduced the financial impact of fluctuating gas prices. When combined with Toyota’s reputation for reliability and low maintenance needs, the stellar MPG ratings solidified the Yaris’s position as an economically savvy choice, offering sustained savings that made its total cost of ownership very attractive.
What were the safety ratings and standard safety features of the 2020 Yaris?
The 2020 Toyota Yaris offered a strong safety proposition for a vehicle in the subcompact class, backed by solid crash-test ratings and important standard active safety technology. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2020 Yaris sedan a top overall safety rating of five out of five stars. It was also equipped with six airbags, an anti-lock brake system (ABS), and a traction control system. These features provided a fundamental and robust layer of passive safety for all occupants.
A key element of the Yaris’s value was the inclusion of a standard active safety system on every trim level. Each 2020 Yaris came with a low-speed pre-collision system, which uses a forward-facing laser to detect potential collisions and can provide audio/visual alerts and automatically apply the brakes if the driver does not react. While it lacked the more advanced, all-speed systems of more expensive Toyotas, its inclusion as a standard feature on such an affordable vehicle was a significant selling point that enhanced driver confidence and safety.
How did the price and value of the 2020 Yaris compare to the 2020 Toyota Corolla?
The 2020 Yaris was strategically priced to serve as the most accessible entry point to the Toyota lineup, sitting just below the larger and more expensive Corolla. A base 2020 Corolla L started at an MSRP of around $19,600, which was approximately $3,000 more than a base automatic Yaris L sedan. This price gap clearly defined their roles: the Yaris was the ultimate budget-conscious choice for individuals or city-dwellers, prioritizing low initial cost and running expenses, while the Corolla catered to those needing more interior space, a more powerful engine, and more advanced features.
In terms of value, the choice depended on buyer priorities. The Corolla justified its higher price with a larger, more comfortable interior, a more powerful standard engine, and the comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, which included full-speed adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The Yaris, on the other hand, offered superior value for those on a tighter budget. It provided essential modern tech like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and basic active safety as standard at a much lower price point, along with slightly better fuel economy, making it the smarter value proposition for buyers whose primary concerns were affordability and efficiency.