Toyota Yaris
The pre-2020 Toyota Yaris built on Toyota's long-running reputation for dependable, low-maintenance small-car ownership. Positioned as an entry point into Toyota ownership, it competed with the VW Polo Vivo and Suzuki Swift in one of South Africa's most popular vehicle segments, and remains a common sight on used-car lots today given how many were sold new.
Body Type
Hatchbacks
New Price (period)
R110,000
Used Price (current)
R63,000
Pros
- Toyota's reputation for long-term reliability
- Strong fuel economy for daily commuting
- Historically strong resale value
- Comfortable, well-built interior for the segment
Cons
- Smaller boot space than some rivals
- 1.5L engine feels underpowered with a full car
- Firmer ride than some competitors
- Fewer dealer network locations than VW in some regions
Running & Repair Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| affordable to service |
Insurance Cost Indicator
Low
A 1.5L engine and Toyota's strong safety ratings generally keep Yaris insurance premiums on the lower end for the hatchback segment.
Get an insurance quote for this modelResale Value Trend
Toyota's reputation for reliability has historically translated into strong resale retention across the range, and the Yaris is no exception — it tends to hold value better than several segment rivals over a 3-5 year ownership period.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
- Check full-service history for gaps
- Inspect tyres for uneven wear (alignment issues)
- Test all electrical components (windows, aircon, infotainment)
- Check for signs of accident repair on panel gaps and paint
- Verify all keys and remotes are present
- Take it for a test drive on both highway and stop-start traffic