The second-generation Toyota Yaris (codename XP90, sold as Vitz in Japan) marked a major evolution compared to its predecessor. Larger, safer (5 Euro NCAP stars), and extremely versatile thanks to its sliding rear bench seat, it established itself as a benchmark in the B-segment. Designed at Toyota's European design center (ED2) in France and produced in Valenciennes for the European market, it stands out for its exceptional overall reliability. The 2009 facelift brought slight aesthetic touches, improved interior materials, and the introduction of the 1.33 Dual VVT-i engine. Although this report focuses on the excellent but demanding 1.4 D-4D diesel engine, the Yaris II offers a complete range of gasoline engines renowned for being indestructible.
The Toyota Yaris II is a true 'workhorse' and one of the most reliable city cars of its generation. The 1.4 D-4D diesel engine is intrinsically very robust and capable of exceeding 300,000 km without flinching, provided two golden rules are followed: avoid the MMT automated gearbox and banish 100% urban use which irremediably clogs its EGR valve and DPF (on recent models). If you primarily drive in the city, you should definitely opt for the excellent gasoline engines (1.0 or 1.3 VVT-i), which offer absolute peace of mind.