What Car? names the Toyota Approved Used as the best scheme available when it comes to customer peace of mind – both in the quality of the products on offer and an unmatched warranty package.
Mark Pearson, What Car? Used Cars Editor, said: “Our judges looked for a scheme that covers older cars, offers strong EV and hybrid cover, includes a full mechanical check, and provides good breakdown cover. The Toyota Approved Used scheme won primarily because it offers its potential 10-year warranty and is open to all used Toyotas, whether bought from a Toyota dealer or even serviced in the past by Toyota.
“While some other schemes offer similar coverage now or come close, the Toyota Approved Used scheme stands supreme thanks to its 145-point check and 15-year, unlimited-mileage hybrid battery cover.”
In addition to the 145-point technical check, all Toyota Approved Used cars undergo additional hybrid health, mechanical and engine and battery condition checks. They are also sold with 12 months’ full roadside assistance cover* that includes breakdown and recovery services at home or on the road. All vehicles are also sold with a safety kit in the boot.
The Toyota Approved Warranty is included every time a vehicle completes a qualifying service at an approved Toyota dealer, until the vehicle reaches 10 years of age or 100,000 miles driven*.
Toyota provides complementary 24/7 accident care to support customers in the event of an accident and also offers a 30-day/1,000-mile exchange policy* (whichever occurs first) by which customers can exchange any vehicle purchased from a Toyota centre with Toyota Approved status for another at the same centre.
The award was shared between Toyota and its sister brand Lexus, which operates an approved used scheme to similar high standards. It is the second year in succession they have received the award, having been honoured for their warranty scheme in 2025.
*Terms and conditions apply; for details visit Toyota Approved Used Cars, Vans & Pick-ups | Toyota UK.
Corolla Hatchback – “excellent value for money”
The Toyota Corolla, celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, is a repeat winner of the Used Hatchback of the Year title. Built in Britain, it’s acclaimed by What Car: as a “terrific family car that’s good to drive, well-built and generously equipped.” Comfort, practicality and the “impressive economy” of its hybrid powertrain are also highlighted.
The judges’ verdict: “The clincher is that the Corolla is such excellent value for money when bought used, undercutting many of its far less sophisticated rivals.”
GR Yaris – a firecracker and a bargain
The GR Yaris is also honoured for a second year in a row, with What Car? considering that, based on “pure driving thrills,” it would have few rivals of any size or power. Developed with direct input from Toyota’s World Rally Championship engineers and drivers, GR Yaris has earned exceptional acclaim and stands as a perfect demonstration of Toyota’s commitment to developing ever-better road cars through its engagement in motorsport.
What Car? describes it as a “delight on nearly any road,” while current used prices represent a “healthy saving,” matched to solid build quality, reliability and a warranty extending to up to 10 years or 100,000 miles.