Is the Yaris T Sport fast?
The Yaris T-Sport offers brisk acceleration for its era and class, but it isn’t a modern speed machine. Relative to its small-hatch peers from the early 2000s, it feels quick and willing to rev, yet it won’t match today’s hot hatch performance.
What is the Yaris T-Sport?
Across markets, the Yaris T-Sport was Toyota’s sportier variant of the XP10 Yaris hatch, produced roughly 2002–2007. It featured a sport-tuned chassis, firmer suspension, larger alloy wheels and a tuned 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It aimed at drivers seeking a more engaging drive without paying for a full hot-hatch price.
Performance specifications
Below are the typical figures shared by many European-market Yaris T-Sport models. Note that exact numbers varied by country and year.
- Engine: 1.5-liter four-cylinder (commonly the 1NZ-FE family) producing around 108–113 horsepower (80–84 kW) and peak torque around 105–115 lb-ft (140–155 Nm).
- Transmission: standard 5-speed manual in most markets, with some markets offering a 6-speed option or different gear ratios depending on the year.
- Weight: curb weight generally around 1,050–1,100 kg, aiding nimble handling.
- Performance: 0–60 mph typically reported in the high 9 seconds to low 10 seconds range; top speed around 115–125 mph (185–200 km/h), depending on gearing and conditions.
- Handling: sport-tuned suspension, stiffer springs, rear setup designed for a more responsive ride, and larger brakes; precise steering with a lively, driver-focused feel.
These numbers made the Yaris T-Sport a lively city-to-suburb cruiser with a willingness to rev and respond to driver input, though it wasn’t built as a track-focused machine.
Context in the market
How does it compare with modern rivals?
Today’s small hot hatchbacks—such as refreshed versions of the Ford Fiesta ST, Renault Clio RS, and Peugeot 208 GTI—offer substantially more power and sharper handling thanks to turbocharged engines and advanced chassis tech. The Yaris T-Sport remains appealing for its light weight and nimble demeanor, but its power, torque, and overall performance aren’t on par with modern competitors.
Practical considerations for prospective owners
If you’re considering a used Yaris T-Sport, check for suspension wear, rust in the underbody, and that the 1.5-liter engine shows no signs of excessive oil consumption or head-gasket issues. A well-kept example can be a charming daily driver with a sporty edge, but expectations should be tempered for straight-line speed.
Summary
The Yaris T-Sport sits at the brisk end of the early-2000s compact hatch lineup. It’s faster than base Yaris variants, thanks to its tuned engine and lighter weight, but it isn’t a modern speed machine. If you want quick acceleration and engaging handling in a small, affordable package from that era, it delivers—though true hot-hatch performance has since moved on.
