Does anybody in the US actually have a French Yaris?

[chocolab]

Is anyone aware of data re: reliability of the French- vs Japan-built cars? I did see on one site that the JD Power initial quality ratings looked down in 2015 compared to earlier years.

I've been looking forever for a 2012-14 model, partially because those were made in Japan, and their great reliability is one of the main reasons for getting the car in the first place. But there have been so few anywhere near me, I haven't been able to hit on one. There's a 2015 that's popped up a short road trip away and I was wondering if I should reconsider.

[kimona]

Originally Posted by chocolab

I've been looking forever for a 2012-14 model, partially because those were made in Japan...

When I was searching for a used 12-14 Yaris, I came across dozens of French made L models and the occasional LE.

You can immediately identify the French made Yaris because the seat upholstery is all black rather than black and light grey. The LE model I finally purchased was made in France.

I was surprised to discover that some of the part numbers are different for French vs. Japanese models... and the prices can be drastically different for identical parts having different part numbers!

[chocolab]

Originally Posted by kimona

When I was searching for a used 12-14 Yaris, I came across dozens of French made L models and the occasional LE.

You can immediately identify the French made Yaris because the seat upholstery is all black rather than black and light grey. The LE model I finally purchased was made in France.

I was surprised to discover that some of the part numbers are different for French vs. Japanese models... and the prices can be drastically different for identical parts having different part numbers!

Thanks, I did notice the different upholstery. Also, I finally figured out after a lot of looking that I can tell when a manual transmission is mis-listed as an auto when the VIN starts with a V. The 2014 ATs I've seen all are French-made, while the 2014 MTs were still made in Japan. (Edit, those are for L models. I don't even look at the LEs because they weren't offered in a manual.)

You wouldn't believe how many dealers apparently think any time the shifter is on the middle console, it must be a manual transmission!

But interesting on the parts actually being different.

How has your LE been? Maybe I've been concerned about nothing. I've looked so long and found so little, maybe I need to be less picky.