The Toyota Yaris, known in Japan as the Toyota Vitz, is a subcompact hatchback produced by Toyota since 1999. The first generation, known as the Yaris I (XP10/NLP10 chassis), was introduced in 2001 and represented Toyota’s entry into the burgeoning European subcompact market. This generation was particularly significant for its focus on maximizing interior space within a small footprint, a key requirement for European city driving. While not initially sold in the United States, the Yaris would eventually arrive in the US market in 2006 with the second generation, building on the reputation for fuel efficiency and practicality established by the first generation globally. The 1.4 DI variant, powered by a diesel engine, was primarily aimed at European markets where diesel fuel was more prevalent and offered significant fuel economy advantages.
Toyota Yaris I (3-door) 1.4 DI (75 Hp) Overview
The Yaris I 1.4 DI (75 Hp) is a 3-door hatchback that was produced between 2001 and 2003. It represents a key model within the first generation Yaris lineup, offering a diesel-powered option for consumers prioritizing fuel efficiency. This model was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a small, economical car for urban commuting and everyday use. The “DI” designation signifies a direct injection diesel engine, a technology that improves fuel economy and reduces emissions compared to older diesel designs. The 3-door configuration further emphasized the Yaris’s compact dimensions and sporty appeal.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Yaris I 1.4 DI is a 1.4-liter inline-4 cylinder diesel engine, designated the 1ND-TV. This engine produces 75 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 170 Nm (125.39 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the diesel engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, with a focus on fuel efficiency. The engine features a turbocharger and intercooler, enhancing power output and improving combustion efficiency. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.9 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 12.3 seconds. The Yaris I 1.4 DI has a maximum speed of 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 18.5:1 is typical for a diesel engine, contributing to its efficiency. The engine displaces 1364 cm3 (83.24 cu. in.) and utilizes a diesel common rail fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery.
Design & Features
The Yaris I 1.4 DI is a 3-door hatchback with a practical and functional design. Its compact dimensions – 3615 mm (142.32 in.) in length, 1660 mm (65.35 in.) in width, and 1500 mm (59.06 in.) in height – make it easy to maneuver in tight urban environments. The 3-door configuration provides a slightly sportier aesthetic compared to the 5-door version. The interior is designed to maximize space, offering seating for five passengers. The trunk offers 305 liters (10.77 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 950 liters (33.55 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. Safety features for the time included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The Yaris I prioritized practicality and affordability, offering a no-frills but functional interior. The steering utilizes a hydraulic power steering rack and pinion system for responsive handling. The vehicle rides on 175/65 R14 tires.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Yaris |
| Generation | Yaris I (3-door) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 DI (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 2000 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 1ND-TV |
| Engine displacement | 1364 cm3 (83.24 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73 mm (2.87 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.5 mm (3.21 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1025 kg (2259.74 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 375 kg (826.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 305 l (10.77 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 950 l (33.55 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 3615 mm (142.32 in.) |
| Width | 1660 mm (65.35 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2370 mm (93.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Rear track | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 |
