MODEL
Toyota Yaris Safety
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.
For a subcompact car, the 2019-2020 Toyota Yaris presents a noteworthy safety profile. The 2020 model achieves a NHTSA Safety Index of 87 out of 100, placing it in the Strong safety band. Its crash-test performance stands out, with the best year receiving a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in both frontal and side impact evaluations. Rollover protection was rated at a solid 4 out of 5 stars. Achieving these frontal and side impact scores is a significant accomplishment for a vehicle of its size and weight. The Yaris accumulated 4 recalls across the 2019 and 2020 model years, a moderate number for its class. Prospective buyers should always confirm that any specific vehicle under consideration has no open recalls by using the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Owner complaints for both years total 35. These complaints include 1 reported crash, 1 fire, and 1 injury. While these remain unverified allegations, the fire report warrants attention during any discussions with sellers. The Yaris earns its Strong safety band honestly. Its crash-test results are among the better outcomes in its class, and the volume of owner complaints is relatively low. Recall verification is a necessary step before purchase.
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.