# Toyota Yaris Cross — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Toyota Yaris Cross on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/toyota-yaris-cross

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2021
- **Ideal trim**: Design
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–50,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £17,863

## Why this model

The Toyota Yaris Cross is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a reliable, economical, and practical small SUV. It combines Toyota's legendary hybrid technology with a slightly raised driving position and more spacious interior than the standard Yaris. It's cheap to run, holds its value well, and is easy to drive around town or on longer trips. Plus, Toyota's reputation for bulletproof reliability means you're unlikely to face unexpected repair bills.

## What you should pay

Based on current UK market data (February 2026), a 2021 Toyota Yaris Cross Design Hybrid with around 30-50k miles typically sells for around £17,863. The used car market has softened a bit since the pandemic peaks, so you might find some good deals. Always compare prices across multiple platforms and be prepared to negotiate slightly, especially if the car has higher mileage or minor cosmetic imperfections. Aim for a well-maintained example with a full service history.

## Which trim to buy

The 'Design' trim hits the sweet spot for value. It adds some really useful features over the entry-level 'Icon' without jumping to the higher price of the 'Excel' or 'Dynamic' trims. You'll typically get things like 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic air conditioning, an 8-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a reversing camera. It feels modern and well-equipped without breaking the bank, offering the best balance of features and affordability on the used market.

## What to check before you buy

- Generally very reliable with few widespread common issues reported.
- Check for minor infotainment glitches, as early software can sometimes be a bit clunky.
- As with any hybrid, ensure the service history shows regular checks of the hybrid system.

## Running costs

Running costs for the Yaris Cross Hybrid are impressively low. You can expect to achieve around 50-55 mpg in real-world mixed driving, which at current petrol prices (around £1.50/litre) works out to roughly 12-14 pence per mile. Road tax (VED) for this hybrid model was free until April 2025, but from then on, it will cost £195 per year. Insurance costs are generally reasonable for a car of this size and type, but always get a few quotes to compare.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Hybrid
- **Horsepower**: 116hp
- **Mpg**: 50-55 mpg
- **Reliability Score**: Excellent
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (2021)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Icon | £22,515 | £16,200 | 16-inch alloy wheels; 7-inch Toyota Touch 2 infotainment; DAB radio |
| Design | £24,140 | £17,863 | 17-inch alloy wheels; 8-inch Toyota Touch 2 infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto; Automatic air conditioning |
| Excel | £27,040 | £19,800 | 18-inch alloy wheels; 9-inch Toyota Smart Connect infotainment; Heated front seats |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £17,863 | 100% |
| 2027 | £16,250 | 91% |
| 2028 | £14,950 | 83% |
| 2029 | £13,900 | 78% |
| 2030 | £13,000 | 73% |

Buying a 3-4 year old Toyota Yaris Cross like the 2021 model is a smart move for depreciation. The steepest drop in value happens in the first few years, so you're letting the first owner take that hit. Toyota hybrids are known for holding their value exceptionally well compared to many rivals, so while it will continue to depreciate, the rate will be much slower from this point onwards. This means you'll lose less money when you eventually come to sell it.

Total value lost since new: 27%.

## Alternatives to consider

- Nissan Juke Hybrid
- Renault Captur E-Tech Hybrid
- [Skoda Kamiq](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/skoda-kamiq.md)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.