2022 Toyota Yaris Icon HEV CVT 1.5L Hybrid electric · DA71 PLV

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 4 February 2026 with no defects recorded, and the two prior tests on 31 January 2025 and 23 December 2024 were similarly passed without advisories. The complete absence of advisories, monitoring items, or minor defects across three consecutive annual examinations is a notably strong indicator of consistent mechanical upkeep, suggesting that the owner has addressed wear items promptly rather than deferring maintenance. With no recurring failure points in areas such as suspension, braking, lighting, or emissions, the test history indicates a stable maintenance trend and provides no early warning of developing faults. While a clean MOT record is reassuring, prospective buyers should still remain mindful that a pass certificate confirms only the standards met on the day of testing and does not guarantee future reliability. With 33,494 miles recorded over approximately four years of ownership, this Yaris has averaged around 8,374 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the typical usage bracket for a hybrid-powered family hatchback of this age. The mileage progression between tests has been steady rather than erratic, with no large annual jumps that would imply motorway long-distance use, nor any prolonged gaps suggesting extended standing periods. This consistent, moderate level of use is generally beneficial for a hybrid powertrain, as it allows the high-voltage battery, inverter, and regenerative braking system to operate regularly under normal conditions, helping to preserve their longevity. The absence of any mileage-related deterioration in the test record further supports the impression of a well-maintained and sensibly driven vehicle. Given the clean MOT history, physical inspection should focus on age-related degradation rather than documented defects. Although the recorded mileage is modest, the vehicle is still four years old, so a thorough check of all four tyres for sidewall perishing, cracking, or UV damage is worthwhile, particularly on the rear axle where wear can be uneven on a front-wheel-drive hybrid. The 12-volt auxiliary battery, which powers the hybrid system controller and ancillary electronics, commonly fails between years four and six and should be load-tested prior to purchase. Similarly, the hybrid system coolant, engine coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid all degrade over time regardless of mileage, so verifying that these have been changed in line with Toyota's calendar-based service intervals is essential. A service book or digital history confirming periodic maintenance at the correct intervals will add confidence to the overall condition assessment. On a test drive, particular attention should be paid to the smooth engagement of the CVT transmission, as any shudder, slipping, or unusual whine when transitioning between electric and petrol drive could indicate hybrid system issues. Brake pedal feel should be firm and progressive, with the regenerative system providing a noticeable deceleration effect on lift-off, and any pulling to one side under braking may suggest binding calipers from infrequent use despite the moderate mileage. Listen for suspension knocks or clonks over speed bumps and uneven road surfaces, as the test record cannot reveal deteriorating bushes, worn shock absorbers, or cracked coil springs. Finally, inspect the underbody and exhaust system for any surface corrosion, as the UK climate can promote oxidation even on relatively low-mileage vehicles, and ensure all warning lamps extinguish correctly once the hybrid system has completed its startup sequence.