Toyota Yaris named European Car of the Year

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.

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.

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."

They also hailed the GR Yaris hot hatch variant for elevating the image of the Yaris with its award-winning performance.

The award was announced on the same day that the Yaris was named Best Supermini at the UK Car of the Year awards and days after it was revealed to be Europe’s best-selling car.

Matt Harrison, executive vice president of Toyota Motor Europe, commented: “This is a great honour for Toyota and I thank the jury for their consideration and recognition. I would also like to take this opportunity to recognise the passion of our development teams in Europe and Japan. This the best ever Yaris and, just as Toyota President Akio Toyoda intended, it is already putting a smile on the faces of our customers.”