Toyota Yaris named 2021 European car of the year

• Yaris hybrid technology acclaimed for low emissions, driveability, and accessible pricing
• Car of the Year jury also appreciated Yaris’ attractive design and class-leading safety
• Yaris awarded alongside its passionate sibling – GR Yaris
• Yaris wins again - 21 years after the first-generation received the award in 2000
• Award coincides with Yaris becoming best-selling car in Europe for the first time

2nd March 2021. The all-new generation Toyota Yaris has been named as the 2021 European Car of the Year.

Selected by a jury of 59 automotive journalists from across Europe, the fourth generation Yaris receives the award 21 years after the innovative first generation was named European Car of the Year in 2000, a first for Toyota. The Yaris has also consistently been recognised by the Car of the Year jury with every generation of the model making the award’s shortlist.

The jury praised Yaris’ hybrid technology for its smooth driving, low emissions and accessible price point – illustrating why more than 80% of Yaris buyers choose the hybrid powertrain. The Yaris was also recognised for its design, dynamic performance, and class-leading safety.

Furthermore, the European Car of the Year jury particularly appreciated Toyota’s success in reigniting passion for the hot hatch market across Europe with the launch of the GR Yaris, which has received unparalleled reviews.

The leading model in the B segment of passenger vehicles, the Yaris self-charging hybrid-electric has zero emissions EV capabilities that have been significantly enhanced and now EV driving is possible for longer periods in urban traffic, driving up to 80% of the time in EV mode.

With a new dynamic design and engaging interior, the Yaris hybrid appeals to progressive customers who are motivated by stylish looks, a dynamic drive, and those who want a car that meets their desire to make a sustainable choice. Hybrid offers an affordable electrified option for drivers who are looking to make the move out of traditional internal combustion engines.

The 2021 European Car of the Year award comes just a few days after the new Yaris was named as the best-selling car in Europe for the first time, a clear sign that European customers agree with the Car of the Year jury.

Steve Tormey, Chief Executive of Toyota Ireland commented on the announcement:

"This international accolade reaffirms the Yaris’ strength and positioning in the market and showcases the impressive journey that our newest generation Yaris hybrid has been on over the last 12 months. The 4th generation Yaris was transformed in 2020 to a dynamic, stylish hot hatch and it highlights the best of design, innovation, and sustainability, making it a true leader in the field. It is with great honour for the Toyota Ireland team that the Toyota Yaris has been named the 2021 European Car of the Year.

Not only seen as a leader in innovation, the Toyota Yaris is highly commended for its unrivalled combination of performance, practicality, and affordability, as well as perfectly suited for those with sustainability in mind. It’s fantastic to see the self-charging hybrid given the accolade in 2021, and we firmly believe that hybrid answers the need of customers for an affordable electrified option.

Given the Yaris’ sustainability credentials as well as being a leading demonstration in innovation, we are proud that this vehicle embodies our brand ethos of building a better world for future generations. We look forward to its continued success and future within the market.”

Toyota has been awarded European Car of the Year three times. Yaris won in 2000, Prius took top honours in 2005 and now Yaris has lifted the trophy again in 2021.

The Yaris is now available in Toyota dealerships with prices starting from €19,110 for the Yaris Petrol Aura and €23,485 for the Yaris Hybrid Luna. Monthly repayment options are also available starting at €160 for the Yaris Petrol Aura and €163 for the Yaris Hybrid Luna respectively. Interested customers are advised to contact their dealership about click and deliver sales, and to go online to use our virtual tools to explore the new Yaris.