Is the Yaris fast?
The Yaris lineup is not generally a speed machine. Standard Yaris models and the hybrid offer city-friendly acceleration and efficiency, while the rally-inspired GR Yaris delivers genuinely fast performance for enthusiasts.
Performance by variant
Below is a concise breakdown of how fast each Yaris variant is, based on official figures and common independent testing. Figures can vary by market, trim, and transmission.
Standard Yaris (gasoline)
- Power: roughly 100–120 hp, depending on market and transmission.
- Transmission: available with a manual or CVT, not all configurations offer both.
- 0–60 mph: typically about 9–11 seconds.
- Top speed: usually around 110–125 mph (180–200 km/h).
As a rule, the base Yaris emphasizes light, nimble driving and fuel efficiency rather than outright speed, making it a practical city car rather than a performance hatch.
Yaris Hybrid
- System output: about 115–120 hp combined.
- Transmission: continuously variable transmission (CVT) in most markets.
- 0–60 mph: roughly 9.5–10.5 seconds.
- Top speed: around 110 mph (177 km/h).
The hybrid model prioritizes smooth acceleration and economy, delivering adequate pace for everyday driving but not a sporty punch.
GR Yaris
- Power: around 257–261 hp from a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine.
- Drivetrain: all-wheel drive; typically a 3-door hatch with a manual transmission (6-speed in most markets).
- 0–60 mph: commonly reported in the 4.9–5.5 second range depending on spec and conditions.
- Top speed: around 143 mph (230 km/h).
The GR Yaris is the outlier in the lineup—a purpose-built, rally-inspired hot hatch that competes with compact performance hatchbacks and offers a markedly faster, more engaging drive than the standard Yaris variants.
Market realities and caveats
Yaris offers a broad range across regions, including the Yaris Cross, which is a small SUV variant. These models emphasize practicality and efficiency rather than sustained speed. Always verify the exact numbers for your country and chosen transmission, as horsepower, acceleration, and top speed can differ by trim and market.
Summary
In short, the typical Yaris you see commuting around town is not fast; it’s built for efficiency and easy handling. If speed is what you want, the GR Yaris stands out as a true performance option within the Yaris family, delivering rapid acceleration, sporty handling, and all-wheel-drive traction. For most drivers, the standard and hybrid Yaris offer a balanced blend of practicality and enough power for confident everyday driving, with speed taking a back seat to economy and reliability.
Is the Toyota Yaris turbo?
GR Yaris 1.6 Turbo Manual Aero Performance
Front lip spoiler. Adjustable rear wing. Motorsports-style vent on the bonnet.
Are Toyota Yaris fast?
In total, the Yaris' hybrid system makes 114bhp and can get the car from 0-62mph in a reasonable 9.7 seconds. That compares to 138bhp and 8.3 seconds for the Renault Clio E-TECH, although most hybrid supermini buyers will be more concerned with efficiency figures than outright acceleration.
Is the Yaris underpowered?
In everyday driving, though, the Yaris doesn't feel underpowered, and it offers a thoroughly agreeable driving experience. Its suspension tuning is sporty enough to deliver responsive handling, yet it's smooth enough to provide the comfort that can make long commutes more pleasant.
What is the fast Yaris called?
The GR Yaris served as the basis for the GR Yaris Rally1 car that made its debut in 2022 World Rally Championship season. It also made its Rally2 debut in 2024.
