2012-2018 Toyota Yaris 1.5L

Overview

The third generation of the Toyota Yaris, marketed in the United States from the 2012 to 2018 model years, represented a focus on urban utility and mechanical simplicity. Introduced to replace the second-generation XP90 platform, this model was built on the Toyota B platform. It was offered in both three-door and five-door hatchback configurations, catering to budget-conscious buyers and city dwellers who prioritized maneuverability and ease of parking.

Engineering for this generation centered on the 1.5-liter 1NZ-FE four-cylinder engine, a powerplant recognized for its longevity and widespread use across the Toyota entry-level lineup. While the vehicle faced stiff competition from rivals like the Honda Fit and Ford Fiesta, the Yaris maintained a reputation for predictable handling and low cost of ownership. Production for the North American market was primarily handled at the KANTO Auto Works plant in Japan, ensuring consistent build quality throughout its lifecycle.

During its production run, the Yaris received minor cosmetic updates, including a revised front fascia for the 2015 model year to align with Toyota’s updated design language. Despite the lack of high-end technology features common in larger vehicles, the Yaris remained a staple in the subcompact segment due to its standard safety equipment, which included nine airbags, and its straightforward interior ergonomics. By 2018, the model began to transition toward a new platform shared with Mazda, marking the end of this specific generation’s tenure in the US market.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Toyota
Model	Yaris
Model Year	2012-2018
Generation	XP150
Trim	L, LE, SE
Body Style	Hatchback
Vehicle Segment	Subcompact
Vehicle Class	Compact Cars
Market	USA
Platform	Toyota B Platform
Assembly Plant	Kanto Auto Works, Japan
Country of Origin	Japan
Production Start	2011
Production End	2018
VIN Identifier	JTD
Base MSRP	$14,115
Destination Charge	$885
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	ICE
Engine Family	Toyota NZ
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-point Injection
Valve Train	DOHC 16-valve VVT-i
Engine Block Material	Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	3.9 qt
Oil Specification / Viscosity	0W-20
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	4.312
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	30
EPA Highway MPG	36
EPA Combined MPG	33
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	7.1
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	11.1
Estimated Driving Range	366 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$1,300
CO₂ Emissions	268 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	7
Smog Rating	5
Performance
0-30 mph	3.6 s
0-60 mph	9.5 s
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	17.2 s
Top Speed	115 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	128 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.81g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	22.1 lb/hp
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	153.5
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	66.7
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	–
Height (in)	59.4
Wheelbase (in)	98.8
Front Track (in)	58.3
Rear Track (in)	58.1
Ground Clearance (in)	5.5
Curb Weight (lbs)	2,315
GVWR (lbs)	3,350
Towing Capacity (lbs)	–
Payload Capacity (lbs)	950
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	84.4
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	15.6
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	47.5
Turning Circle	36.8 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	4 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash	4 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash	5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover	4 Stars
IIHS Award	–
Small Overlap Front	Marginal
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	Poor
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	6.1-inch Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog
Apple CarPlay	No
Android Auto	No
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	AM/FM/CD/MP3
Speaker Count	6
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	3 yr / 36,000 mi
Powertrain Warranty	5 yr / 60,000 mi
Corrosion Warranty	5 yr / Unlimited mi
Roadside Assistance	2 yr / 25,000 mi
Complimentary Maintenance	2 yr / 25,000 mi
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Japan
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	1st: 3.54, 2nd: 1.91, 3rd: 1.31, 4th: 1.03, 5th: 0.84
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	5.8 qt
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	110
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

In the used car market, the 2012-2018 Toyota Yaris is highly regarded for its exceptional mechanical reliability and low cost of operation, making it a frequent recommendation for students and urban commuters. The 1NZ-FE engine is known to exceed 200,000 miles with basic maintenance, though prospective buyers should inspect the suspension bushings and clutch assemblies on manual-transmission models for signs of wear. While the cabin materials are utilitarian and lack modern connectivity features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, the vehicle’s simplicity is its primary strength, as there are few complex electronic systems to fail. Common issues are generally limited to minor interior rattles and the occasional failure of the blower motor or window regulators. Overall, the Yaris remains a sensible choice for those prioritizing long-term durability and budget-friendly transportation over luxury or performance.