The Toyota Yaris II 1.3 i VVT-i Automatic, produced between 2005 and 2008, represents the second generation of Toyota’s globally successful supermini. While not initially a major seller in the United States – the Yaris didn’t gain significant traction in the US market until later iterations – the Yaris II was a crucial model for Toyota in Europe and other international markets. It offered a practical, fuel-efficient, and reliable option in the highly competitive small car segment. This generation focused on improving upon the first Yaris’s already strong reputation for dependability and affordability, with enhancements to both styling and interior space.
Toyota Yaris II: A European Supermini
The Yaris, known as the Echo in some markets including the initial US introduction, was designed as a modern, space-efficient vehicle. The second generation, launched in 2005, built upon this foundation. The Yaris II aimed to appeal to a broad demographic, particularly urban drivers seeking a compact and economical vehicle. Its 5-door hatchback configuration and relatively spacious interior for its size made it a practical choice for small families or individuals. The 1.3 i VVT-i variant, equipped with an automatic transmission, was a popular choice for drivers prioritizing ease of use and fuel efficiency over outright performance.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Yaris II 1.3 i 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 121 Nm (89.25 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4200 rpm. The Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) system optimizes valve timing for improved fuel efficiency and power delivery across the engine’s operating range. Paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, the Yaris II 1.3 i VVT-i delivers a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 13.1 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 12.4 seconds. The vehicle has a top speed of 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The engine’s focus is clearly on economy, achieving combined fuel consumption of 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg or 48.7 UK mpg).
Design & Features
The Yaris II adopted a more contemporary design compared to its predecessor, with a rounded hatchback silhouette and a more prominent front grille. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering a surprisingly spacious cabin for a vehicle of its size. The 5-door configuration provides easy access to both front and rear seats. Standard features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for enhanced safety, and the interior was designed to be durable and easy to clean. The rear seats can be folded down to increase cargo capacity from a minimum of 272 liters (9.61 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1086 liters (38.35 cu. ft.). The Yaris II prioritized functionality and affordability, offering a well-rounded package for everyday use. The suspension utilizes a spring strut setup in the front and a torsion beam in the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality suitable for urban environments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Yaris |
| Generation | Yaris II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 i VVT-i (87 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 87 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 121 Nm @ 4200 rpm (89.25 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2SZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 1296 cm3 (79.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.6 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1010 kg (2226.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 272 l (9.61 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1086 l (38.35 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 3750 mm (147.64 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1530 mm (60.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2460 mm (96.85 in.) |
| Front track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Rear track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.4 m (30.84 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/60 R15 |
The Toyota Yaris II 1.3 i VVT-i Automatic offered a compelling blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and reliability, making it a popular choice in the European supermini segment. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, it provided a comfortable and economical transportation solution for a wide range of drivers.
