Levi KeswickKey takeaways:
- Yamaha, known primarily for motorcycles and water vehicles, also produced car parts and partnered with major manufacturers.
- The Toyota Yaris has multiple offshoots and variations, including the performance rally car racing version, the FR Yaris.
- The Yenko Camaro, a high-performance muscle car, is a sought-after collector’s item with a current value of around $295,625.
Yamaha: More Than Just Motorcycles and Pianos
While Yamaha is primarily known for its motorcycles, water vehicles, and even pianos, the company has also dabbled in car production. The most notable model is the OX99-11, a car technically released by Toyota but with Yamaha manufacturing almost all of the parts, including the engine. Yamaha has also partnered with other manufacturers to release cars such as the 2000GT, Ford Taurus SHO, and Volvo XC90 V8.
Toyota Yaris: A Supermini with Multiple Offshoots
The Toyota Yaris, a supermini car model launched in 1999, has had numerous variations and offshoots over the years. These include the Vitz, Platz, Echo, Belta, Vios, Charade, iA, and Mazda2 Hybrid. The Yaris also has more direct releases, such as the Yaris Verso mini MPV and Yaris Cross. Toyota even launched the FR Yaris, a three-door version primarily built for performance rally car racing.
Škoda Yeti: A Mid-Size Crossover SUV with a Family Car Award
The Škoda Yeti is a mid-size crossover SUV produced by Czech automaker Škoda Auto. Introduced as a prototype at the Geneva Motor Show in 2005, the car achieved moderate success and won the Family Car of the Year award from Top Gear Magazine. Notable models include a Chinese version with a rear tire mount and the 2017-released successor, the Karoq.
Yenko Camaro: The High-Performance Muscle Car and Collector’s Dream
The Yenko Camaro is a high-performance muscle car produced by Chevrolet in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Modified by Pennsylvania-based Yenko Chevrolet dealership owner Don Yenko, the car was transformed into a street-legal racing car. The Yenko Camaro is highly sought after by collectors today, with only 54 models produced in 1967. Its current value is around $295,625.
Yes!: A German Sports Car Manufacturer
Yes! is a German car manufacturer whose name stands for Young Engineers Sportscar. Founded by sports car designer Oliver Schweizer, the company’s first car was the Yes! Roadster, followed by the Yes! Roadster 3.2 in 2006.
Yugo: A Subcompact Hatchback with a Cult Following
The Yugo, a subcompact hatchback produced by Serbian carmaker Zastava Automobiles, was released in 1980 and produced until 2008. Despite being known for safety and reliability issues, the Yugo established a minor cult following through various models and names, including US, European, and Latin American versions.
Daihatsu YRV: A Mini Multi-Purpose Vehicle
The Daihatsu YRV was a mini multi-purpose vehicle produced in Japan from 2000 to 2005. Its small size, 4-wheel drive, and interior cargo space made it popular for the company. Various versions were released over the years, including manual and supercharged versions for different markets.
In conclusion
While there may not be an extensive list of car brands starting with Y, the ones that do exist offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of automobiles. From high-performance muscle cars like the Yenko Camaro to the versatile Toyota Yaris and the cult favorite Yugo, these unique and rare car models and brands showcase the diverse range of vehicles that have graced the roads over the years.
With companies like Yamaha branching out into car production and partnerships, and smaller manufacturers like Yes! focusing on niche sports car markets, there’s no shortage of innovation and diversity in the world of car brands starting with Y. Whether you’re a collector, an enthusiast, or simply curious about the lesser-known aspects of the automotive industry, these Y-brands and models are sure to pique your interest and expand your knowledge of the captivating world of cars.
