The Toyota Yaris, known in Japan as the Vitz, is a subcompact hatchback produced by Toyota since 1999. The first generation, known as the Yaris I, was a significant departure for Toyota, representing a move towards more contemporary styling and a focus on maximizing interior space within a small footprint. Introduced in Europe and other markets outside of Japan in 2000, the Yaris quickly gained popularity for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and surprisingly spacious interior. This article details the facelifted version of the Yaris I, specifically the 5-door 1.0 VVT-i model with the Multi-Mode transmission produced between 2003 and 2005. This model was primarily aimed at the European market, where subcompact hatchbacks are a dominant segment, offering an affordable and economical transportation solution.
Toyota Yaris I (Facelift 2003): An Overview
The 2003 facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the original Yaris I, including revised front and rear styling, interior trim updates, and improvements to the vehicle’s already impressive fuel economy. The 1.0 VVT-i engine, paired with the Multi-Mode transmission (a type of automated manual gearbox), was a popular choice for buyers prioritizing efficiency and ease of use. The Yaris I competed with other subcompacts like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, and Renault Clio, establishing itself as a strong contender in its class.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2003 Toyota Yaris 1.0 VVT-i is the 1SZ-FE inline-four cylinder engine, displacing 998 cubic centimeters (60.9 cubic inches). This naturally aspirated engine produces 65 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 90 Newton-meters (66.38 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4100 rpm. While not a performance powerhouse, the engine is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. The Multi-Mode transmission, a five-speed automated manual, offers the convenience of an automatic without the efficiency losses typically associated with traditional automatic gearboxes. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 13.6 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 12.9 seconds. The Yaris I 1.0 VVT-i has a top speed of 155 km/h (96.31 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 13.8 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 9.9 kg/Nm, contributing to its nimble handling.
Design & Features
The 2003 Yaris I is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. Its compact dimensions – 3640 mm (143.31 in) in length, 1660 mm (65.35 in) in width, and 1500 mm (59.06 in) in height – make it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The interior is designed to maximize space, offering comfortable seating for five passengers. The rear seats can be folded down to increase cargo capacity from a minimum of 205 liters (7.24 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 950 liters (33.55 cu. ft.). Safety features for the time included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The Yaris I’s drag coefficient of 0.30 contributes to its fuel efficiency. The vehicle’s design prioritized functionality and practicality over outright aesthetics, reflecting the needs of its target market. The Multi-Mode transmission was a key feature, offering a convenient alternative to a traditional manual gearbox.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Yaris |
| Generation | Yaris I (facelift 2003) 5-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 VVT-i (65 Hp) Multi-Mode |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 155 km/h (96.31 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 65 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 90 Nm @ 4100 rpm (66.38 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 1SZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 998 cm3 (60.9 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 69 mm (2.72 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 66.7 mm (2.63 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 895-980 kg (1973.14 – 2160.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1375 kg (3031.36 lbs.) |
| Max load | 395-480 kg (870.83 – 1058.22 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 205 l (7.24 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Length | 3640 mm (143.31 in.) |
| Width | 1660 mm (65.35 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2370 mm (93.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1440-1450 mm (56.69 – 57.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1420-1430 mm (55.91 – 56.3 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission Multi-Mode |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm, Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 235 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 155/80 R13; 175/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 13; 5.5J x 14 |
The Toyota Yaris I (facelift 2003) 1.0 VVT-i Multi-Mode remains a popular choice for those seeking an economical and reliable city car. Its compact size, fuel efficiency, and practical interior make it a compelling option in the used car market.
