Toyota Yaris Trim Levels Explained: Find the Perfect Model for You

The Toyota Yaris has long been one of the UK’s favourite compact cars, offering reliability, fuel efficiency, and a range of features that suit different drivers.

But when it comes to choosing the perfect Yaris, things can get a bit tricky.

Why? Because of the variety of trim levels available.

In this article, we’ll break down the different Toyota Yaris trims, highlighting their features, pros and cons, and helping you figure out which one is right for you.

What Are Toyota Yaris Trim Levels?

Before we dive in, let’s clarify what a trim level actually means.

In simple terms, a trim level represents a version of a car with a specific set of features.

Each trim comes with a unique combination of technology, comfort, performance, and design options.

The higher you go up the trim ladder, the more features (and generally, the higher the price).

The Toyota Yaris comes in several trims, each catering to different needs, from basic models that offer great value to higher-end versions packed with luxury touches.

If you’re considering purchasing a Toyota Yaris, you might want to check out our page on what insurance group a Toyota Yaris Hybrid belongs to to understand potential insurance costs.

Overview of Toyota Yaris Trim Levels

The current Toyota Yaris offers several trim levels, ranging from the budget-friendly Active to the sporty and performance-oriented GR Sport.

Here’s a quick overview of the main trims:

• Active – The entry-level option, perfect for drivers looking for affordability and essential features.
• Icon – A step up with more technology and comfort.
• Design – A stylish choice, offering enhanced features and aesthetics.
• Excel – The premium option, packed with luxury and advanced tech.
• GR Sport – A sporty version for those who want a more dynamic driving experience.

Toyota Yaris Active

The Active trim is the most affordable Yaris available, making it ideal for those on a tighter budget.

Despite being the entry-level model, it still comes with a decent set of features, ensuring you get plenty of value for your money.

Key Features

• 15-inch steel wheels
• 7-inch infotainment touchscreen
• Reversing camera
• Basic safety features like lane departure warning and road sign assist

While the Active trim may lack some of the more advanced features found in higher trims, it’s perfect for city driving and everyday commutes.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Affordable, easy to drive, reliable.
• Cons: Lacks advanced tech, basic interior materials.

If you’re concerned about potential issues after purchasing a vehicle, it’s important to know what to do if a dealership sells you a faulty car in the UK.

Toyota Yaris Icon

Moving up, the Icon trim level adds a touch more sophistication without a significant jump in price.

This trim is designed for those who want a little more comfort and tech but don’t need all the bells and whistles.

Key Features

• 16-inch alloy wheels
• 8-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto)
• Toyota Safety Sense, including pre-collision system and adaptive cruise control
• Upgraded interior materials

The Icon trim hits the sweet spot for many buyers, offering a nice balance of value and modern features.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Enhanced tech features, stylish design upgrades.
• Cons: Not as luxurious as higher trims, no premium features like leather seats.

Toyota Yaris Design

The Design trim is where things get a little more stylish.

If you’re someone who cares about the aesthetics of your car as much as its functionality, the Design trim might be the one for you.

It offers more customisation options and an upgraded design, both inside and out.

Key Features

• 17-inch alloy wheels
• LED headlights and rear lights
• Upgraded upholstery
• Rear privacy glass

The Design trim also provides a more enjoyable driving experience, with features that give the Yaris a sportier feel.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Sporty exterior, premium materials, enhanced tech features.
• Cons: Higher price compared to Icon, fewer luxury features than Excel.

Toyota Yaris Excel

For those who want all the bells and whistles, the Excel trim is the top choice.

It’s the most luxurious option in the Yaris lineup, perfect for drivers who enjoy a touch of class in their everyday driving experience.

Key Features

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Leather-trimmed interior
• Heated front seats
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Toyota Smart Connect with cloud navigation

The Excel trim offers a premium experience, making it feel more like a compact luxury car than a standard hatchback.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Luxurious interior, packed with advanced features, premium driving experience.
• Cons: Higher price, some may find it overkill for a small car.

Toyota Yaris GR Sport

If performance is what you’re after, the GR Sport is the Yaris for you.

Inspired by Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division, this trim is all about dynamic driving.

While it’s not a full-blown sports car, it certainly adds excitement to the typical Yaris experience.

Key Features

• Sport-tuned suspension
• 18-inch GR Sport alloy wheels
• GR Sport exterior styling
• Sports seats and steering wheel

The GR Sport is ideal for drivers who want something sporty and fun, but still practical for everyday use.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Sporty performance, stylish exterior, more dynamic handling.
• Cons: Lower fuel efficiency, higher price.

How to Choose the Right Toyota Yaris Trim for You

With so many trim levels to choose from, how do you decide which one is right for you?

Here are a few key factors to consider:

1. Budget: The Yaris Active is perfect for those looking to save money, while the Excel and GR Sport cater to those willing to spend more for luxury or performance.
2. Driving Habits: If you’re mainly driving around town, the Active or Icon might be enough. For longer commutes or motorway driving, the Excel with its premium comfort features may be a better fit.
3. Tech Preferences: If you want the latest technology, trims like the Icon and Design offer great features without breaking the bank. However, if you crave luxury, the Excel is the way to go.
4. Aesthetic Taste: Love a sporty look? The Design and GR Sport trims offer eye-catching exteriors and sporty interiors.

To get an idea of how far your budget can stretch, you might want to explore how much dealerships in the UK will come down on price for a new car.

Fuel Efficiency Across Toyota Yaris Trims

Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor for many buyers.

Fortunately, the Toyota Yaris is known for its excellent fuel economy across all trims, particularly with the hybrid options available.

• Hybrid Options: Most Yaris trims come with a hybrid engine, combining a petrol engine with electric power for reduced emissions and better fuel economy.
• Active and Icon: Typically the most fuel-efficient trims due to their lighter weight and less powerful engines.
• GR Sport: While it’s the least fuel-efficient due to its performance focus, it still offers reasonable efficiency compared to other sporty cars.

Safety Features by Trim Level

Safety is a priority for Toyota, and the Yaris is no exception.

Even the entry-level Active trim comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, which includes lane departure alert, automatic high beams, and a pre-collision system.

Higher trims, such as the Excel, add even more advanced features like adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and cloud-based navigation.

For a detailed look at how these features compare across other vehicles, you may want to check out how long it takes to service a car at a dealership.

Pricing Breakdown for Toyota Yaris Trims

Here’s a rough idea of the price range for each Yaris trim:

• Active: The most affordable, starting around £20,000.
• Icon: Mid-range option, typically priced between £22,000 – £23,000.
• Design: Prices start around £24,000, offering a stylish and well-rounded package.
• Excel: The premium choice, with prices starting at £26,000.
• GR Sport: Expect to pay £27,000 or more for the sporty experience.

Of course, prices can vary based on optional extras, financing, and promotions, so it’s always worth checking with your local dealership.

Final Thoughts: Which Toyota Yaris Trim Is Right for You?

Choosing the right Toyota Yaris trim ultimately depends on your budget, preferences, and driving habits.

If you’re looking for an affordable, reliable car for daily use, the Active or Icon trims will serve you well.

For those wanting a bit more style and comfort, the Design trim is an excellent choice.

And if you’re after luxury or sporty performance, the Excel or GR Sport will deliver on all fronts.

Whichever Yaris trim you choose, you’ll be getting a dependable, efficient car that’s perfect for city driving and beyond.

FAQs

• What’s the difference between the Toyota Yaris Icon and Design trims?
  The Design trim offers a sportier exterior, larger wheels, and enhanced interior features compared to the Icon.
• Is the Toyota Yaris GR Sport available as a hybrid?
  Yes, the GR Sport is available with a hybrid engine, combining sporty performance with better fuel efficiency.
• Which Toyota Yaris trim is the most fuel-efficient?
  The Active and Icon trims tend to be the most fuel-efficient due to their lighter weight and simpler engine options.
• Is the Toyota Yaris Excel worth the higher price?
  If you value luxury features like leather seats, premium audio, and advanced safety systems, the Excel is worth the investment.

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