MODEL
Toyota Yaris
NHTSA safety across every Toyota Yaris model year we cover.
Across the 2 model years of the Toyota Yaris we cover (2019 to 2020), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2020 at 87 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2019 at 81. 4 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Toyota Yaris is a subcompact hatchback and wagon aimed squarely at budget-conscious urban drivers and first-time car buyers who want a small, maneuverable daily driver with the Toyota nameplate behind it. Covering the 2019 and 2020 model years, the Yaris slots into one of the most competitive segments in the market, where safety credentials can genuinely separate one entry from another.
The 2019 to 2020 Toyota Yaris puts up a genuinely respectable safety record for a subcompact, and the numbers back that up. The 2020 model earns a MotorCaliber Safety Index of 87 out of 100, landing it firmly in the Strong band. Crash-test performance is the highlight here: the best year delivers a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in both frontal and side impact testing, with a solid 4 out of 5 in rollover protection. For a vehicle this small and light, those frontal and side scores are meaningful achievements. On the recall front, 4 recalls across the two covered model years is a moderate figure for a subcompact, and shoppers should verify whether any open recalls apply to a specific vehicle they are considering by checking the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Owner complaints total 35 across both years, with reported allegations including 1 crash, 1 fire, and 1 injury. These are unverified allegations, but the fire report in particular is worth noting as a conversation starter with any dealer or private seller. The bottom line: the Yaris earns its Strong safety band honestly. Its crash scores are among the better results in its class, and the complaint volume is relatively contained. Just do your recall homework before signing anything.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Yaris as a sensible, no-frills subcompact that delivers adequate everyday transportation without pretense. Most praise its urban maneuverability and straightforward driving experience, while noting that the cabin and feature set feel modest even by small-car standards. It tends to be recommended as a practical, entry-level choice rather than an exciting one.
- The 2020 Yaris earns a Strong-band Safety Index of 87 out of 100, supported by 5-star frontal and side crash-test scores, making it one of the better-performing vehicles in the subcompact segment on pure crash-test merit.
- Rollover protection is rated 4 out of 5 stars, which is respectable but a step below its frontal and side scores. Shoppers who frequently drive on higher-speed roads or uneven terrain should factor this in.
- Four recalls span the 2019 to 2020 model years. Always run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov before purchasing to confirm no open recall actions remain unaddressed on the specific vehicle.
- Owner complaints across both years include an unverified allegation of a fire. While 35 total complaints is a relatively contained number for two model years, the fire allegation is worth raising directly with a seller and cross-referencing against any open recall or technical service bulletin activity.
Most-recalled year on record: 2019 Toyota Yaris with 3 recalls.