Toyota Yaris named European Car of the Year

By Matt Allan
Published 2nd Mar 2021, 08:59 BST
Updated 2nd Mar 2021, 08:59 BST

The Toyota Yaris has been named the 2021 European Car of Year.

The all-new version of the long-running supermini beat six other shortlisted models to claim the prestigious title, 21 years after the first generation also claimed the prize.

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A jury of 59 motoring journalists from across Europe selected the Yaris ahead of the Citroen C4, Fiat 500, Skoda Octavia, Volkswagen ID.3, Cupra Formentor and Land Rover Defender.

Judges praised its hybrid technology and affordable pricing as well as its design and “class-leading” safety.

Judges praised the standard car as well as the hot hatch GR Yaris (Photo: Toyota)Judges praised the standard car as well as the hot hatch GR Yaris (Photo: Toyota)
Judges praised the standard car as well as the hot hatch GR Yaris (Photo: Toyota)

Annoucing the Yaris's win, the judging panel said: "Yaris keeps on being more compact than other B-segment models, but has matured and refined in every aspect: looks, perceived quality, safety and comfort equipment, performance and handling too. The main feature about the new Yaris, despite the almost marginal existence of other petrol engines, is its efficient hybrid system. It is in urban areas where a hybrid vehicle excels in fuel consumption and emissions cleanness. Hence the special suitability of an efficient hybrid small car such as Yaris."