2007-2011 Toyota Yaris 1.5L

Overview

The second-generation Toyota Yaris, marketed in the United States from 2007 to 2011, represented a strategic effort by Toyota to capture the entry-level subcompact market. Replacing the Echo, the Yaris was designed to offer high fuel efficiency, urban maneuverability, and the brand’s reputation for long-term reliability. It was available in three-door hatchback, five-door hatchback, and four-door sedan body styles, providing flexibility for a wide range of consumers, from students to city commuters.

Under the hood, the vehicle utilized the 1.5-liter 1NZ-FE four-cylinder engine, which featured Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). This engine was paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic. The platform prioritized a compact footprint, resulting in a short wheelbase and a tight turning radius, which made it well-suited for dense urban environments. While the interior focused on utility and cost-effectiveness, the center-mounted instrument cluster became a distinct visual signature of this generation.

Throughout its production run, the Yaris remained a consistent seller in the North American market. It was manufactured primarily in Japan, with some units sourced from other global facilities to meet demand. Its legacy is defined by its simplicity; it avoided complex electronic systems in favor of mechanical robustness. This approach solidified its status as a staple of the used car market, where it is frequently sought after by buyers prioritizing low operating costs and minimal maintenance requirements.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Toyota
Model	Yaris
Model Year	2007-2011
Generation	XP90
Trim	Base, S, LE
Body Style	Hatchback / Sedan
Vehicle Segment	B-Segment
Vehicle Class	Subcompact Cars
Market	USA
Platform	Toyota B Platform
Assembly Plant	Takaoka, Japan
Country of Origin	Japan
Production Start	2006
Production End	2011
VIN Identifier	JTD
Base MSRP	$11,500
Destination Charge	$720
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	Toyota NZ engine
Engine Name	1NZ-FE
Engine Code	1NZ-FE
Engine Configuration	Inline-4
Displacement	1.5 Liters
Bore x Stroke	75.0 mm x 84.7 mm
Compression Ratio	10.5:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Multi-port Fuel Injection
Valve Train	DOHC 16-valve
Engine Block Material	Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	3.9 qt
Oil Specification / Viscosity	5W-30
Horsepower	106 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque	103 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm
Redline	6,400 rpm
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Manual 5-spd
Final Drive Ratio	3.72:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	29
EPA Highway MPG	36
EPA Combined MPG	32
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	7.3 L/100 km
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	11.1
Estimated Driving Range	390 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$1,300
CO₂ Emissions	280 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	7
Smog Rating	6
Performance
0-30 mph	3.6 s
0-60 mph	9.5 s
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	17.2 s
Top Speed	110 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	130 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.78 g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	0.045 hp/lb
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	150.6 (Hatchback)
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	66.7
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	–
Height (in)	60.0
Wheelbase (in)	96.9
Front Track (in)	58.1
Rear Track (in)	57.5
Ground Clearance (in)	5.5
Curb Weight (lbs)	2,295
GVWR (lbs)	3,345
Towing Capacity (lbs)	–
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,050
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	86.3
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	9.3
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	25.7
Turning Circle	32.6 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	4 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash	4 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash	4 Stars
NHTSA Rollover	4 Stars
IIHS Award	–
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	Acceptable
Side Impact	Marginal
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	None
Instrument Cluster	Analog
Apple CarPlay	No
Android Auto	No
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	AM/FM/CD
Speaker Count	4
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	36 months / 36,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	60 months / 60,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	60 months / Unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance	24 months / 25,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	–
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Kamigo, Japan
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	1st: 3.54, 2nd: 1.90, 3rd: 1.31, 4th: 0.97, 5th: 0.78
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	5.8 qt
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	–
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2007-2011 Toyota Yaris is widely regarded as one of the most dependable subcompact vehicles of its era, largely due to the simplicity of its powertrain and the proven track record of the 1NZ-FE engine. In the used market, it remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable daily driver with low fuel consumption. While the vehicle is generally trouble-free, prospective owners should inspect the suspension components, specifically the struts and bushings, which can wear out over time. Additionally, some high-mileage examples may experience minor oil consumption or issues with the water pump, but these are typically inexpensive to address. The Yaris lacks modern infotainment and advanced safety features, yet its straightforward mechanical design and low cost of ownership continue to make it a practical, no-nonsense transportation solution.