The Toyota Yaris Sedan, specifically the facelifted version introduced for the 2019 model year, represents Toyota’s entry into the subcompact sedan market in the United States. While the Yaris nameplate has a long history globally, the sedan variant offered in the US was primarily aimed at buyers seeking an affordable and fuel-efficient vehicle. This generation of the Yaris Sedan was built in Mexico and differed significantly from the hatchback versions sold in other markets, like Europe and Japan. The 2019 facelift brought styling updates and minor equipment revisions to enhance its appeal. It was discontinued after the 2020 model year.
Toyota Yaris Sedan (USA) (Facelift 2019) 1.5: An Overview
The Yaris Sedan occupied a crucial position in Toyota’s lineup as one of the most affordable new cars available in the US. It targeted first-time buyers, commuters, and those prioritizing economy over performance or luxury. The facelifted 2019 model aimed to address some criticisms of the previous generation, offering a more refined appearance and improved features. It competed with other subcompact sedans like the Nissan Versa and Mitsubishi Mirage G4.
Engine & Performance
Powering the 2019 Toyota Yaris Sedan was the 2NR-FE 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produced 106 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 140 Nm (103.26 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. While not a performance-oriented engine, it provided adequate power for everyday driving situations. The engine featured Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) with intelligent variable valve timing (D-VVT-i) to optimize efficiency and responsiveness. The Yaris Sedan was equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission as standard. This configuration resulted in a weight-to-power ratio of 10.2 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 7.7 kg/Nm. Fuel economy figures were a key selling point, with combined fuel consumption rated at 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l). Urban fuel consumption was 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg), and extra-urban consumption was 6.0 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg).
Design & Features
The 2019 Yaris Sedan featured a traditional sedan body style with four doors and seating for five passengers. The facelift brought a revised front fascia with a more prominent grille and updated headlights, giving the car a more modern appearance. The rear end also received minor styling tweaks. Inside, the Yaris Sedan offered a basic but functional interior. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system. Safety features, while not extensive, included Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The trunk offered 382 liters (13.49 cu. ft.) of cargo space, which was competitive for its class. The vehicle’s dimensions were: length 4348 mm (171.18 in.), width 1694 mm (66.69 in.), and height 1486 mm (58.5 in.), with a wheelbase of 2570 mm (101.18 in.). Ground clearance was 140 mm (5.51 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Yaris |
| Generation | Yaris Sedan (USA) (facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 (106 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 106 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 140 Nm @ 4000 rpm (103.26 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2NR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 1496 cm3 (91.29 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, D-VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.4 l (3.59 US qt | 2.99 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1082-1089 kg (2385.4 – 2400.83 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 382 l (13.49 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 44 l (11.62 US gal | 9.68 UK gal) |
| Length | 4348 mm (171.18 in.) |
| Width | 1694 mm (66.69 in.) |
| Height | 1486 mm (58.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm (101.18 in.) |
| Front track | 1496 mm (58.9 in.) |
| Rear track | 1486 mm (58.5 in.) |
| Ride height | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.81 m (32.19 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
The Toyota Yaris Sedan (USA) (facelift 2019) 1.5, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, served a valuable purpose in the US market by providing an affordable and reliable transportation option. Its focus on fuel efficiency and practicality made it a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers. Despite its relatively short production run, it remains a notable example of Toyota’s commitment to offering a diverse range of vehicles to meet various consumer needs.
