Toyota Yaris I (facelift ) 5-door 1.3 VVT-i (87 Hp)

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. This article details the facelifted version of the Yaris I, produced from 2003 to 2005, specifically the 5-door model equipped with the 1.3-liter VVT-i engine producing 87 horsepower. While not initially a major seller in the United States, the Yaris gained popularity as a fuel-efficient and reliable option, particularly among urban drivers. The Yaris I established the model as a key player in the European and Asian subcompact market, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Polo and Honda Jazz.

Toyota Yaris I (Facelift 2003): Overview

The 2003 facelift of the Yaris I brought subtle but important changes to the original design, including revised front and rear styling, interior refinements, and improvements to the engine for better efficiency and reduced emissions. This iteration of the Yaris continued to prioritize practicality, affordability, and fuel economy, making it a popular choice for first-time car buyers and those seeking a dependable city car. The 5-door configuration offered increased accessibility and versatility compared to the 3-door model, further enhancing its appeal to a wider range of consumers.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the 2003 Toyota Yaris 1.3 VVT-i is the 2SZ-FE 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 87 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 122 Nm (89.98 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4200 rpm. The engine utilizes Toyota’s Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) technology, which optimizes valve timing for improved performance and fuel efficiency across a wider range of engine speeds. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.1 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.5 seconds. The Yaris 1.3 has a top speed of 175 km/h (108.74 mph). The engine’s relatively small displacement and VVT-i system contribute to its impressive fuel economy, with combined fuel consumption rated at 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg).

Design & Features

The 2003 Yaris I facelift maintains the original’s distinctive, upright hatchback silhouette. The 5-door body style provides easy access to the rear seats and a more practical interior layout. The interior is designed with functionality in mind, offering comfortable seating for five passengers. While not lavishly equipped, the Yaris I offered essential features such as power steering, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), and a reasonably sized trunk. The trunk offers 205 liters (7.24 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 950 liters (33.55 cu. ft.) when folded down. Safety features, while basic by modern standards, included ABS and a robust chassis design. The focus was on providing a safe and reliable vehicle for everyday use. The drag coefficient of 0.30 contributes to its fuel efficiency.

Technical Specifications