What are the different types of Toyota Yaris 2012?
The 2012 Toyota Yaris was offered primarily as hatchbacks in two body styles—3-door and 5-door—with three trim levels and a 1.5-liter engine paired to a manual or automatic transmission.
This article breaks down the 2012 Yaris lineup, outlining body styles, trims, engines, and regional variations to help readers understand the options that were available that year.
Body styles available in 2012
Two primary configurations were available to buyers, reflecting the Yaris’ practical subcompact design.
- 3-door hatchback
- 5-door hatchback
Both body styles shared the same platform and powertrain, with the difference being door count and rear-seat accessibility.
Trims and features
In the United States and many other markets, the Yaris lineup was organized into three trims, offering a progression of equipment.
- L
- LE
- SE
The SE trim added sport styling cues and additional equipment, while L served as the entry point and LE offered mid-level convenience and technology features.
Global trim naming notes
Across different regions, trim names can vary. While L/LE/SE were common in several markets, some countries used alternative designations or offered unique packages. The overall idea was the same: a base, a mid-level, and a sportier, more feature-rich version.
Powertrain and performance
The 2012 Yaris was powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing around 106 horsepower, matched to either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive was standard, with fuel economy that aligned with subcompact norms of the era.
Market variations and regional notes
Market offerings varied by region, with some differences in body style availability, engines, and trim packages. In North America, hatchbacks were the primary Yaris models, while other regions sometimes offered additional options or variants within the Yaris family.
United States and Canada
The U.S. and Canadian Yaris lineup centered on hatchback configurations (3- and 5-door) with L, LE, and SE trims. The focus was on affordable subcompact mobility with a balance of practicality and value.
Other regions
In other parts of the world, the Yaris lineup could include market-specific variants, such as different engine choices or equipment packages. While the core essence remained a compact, economical car, regional differences shaped the exact options available to buyers.
Safety and technology highlights
Standard safety features typically included multiple airbags and anti-lock brakes, with higher trims offering additional conveniences like upgraded audio systems, cruise control, and improved interior materials. As with most subcompacts of the era, technology focused on essential convenience rather than cutting-edge infotainment.
Summary
For the 2012 model year, the Toyota Yaris offered two hatchback body styles (3-door and 5-door), three trims (L, LE, SE), and a 1.5-liter engine with manual or automatic transmission. Regional variations shaped which options were available, but the core package emphasized affordability, practicality, and efficient urban mobility. The Yaris remained a compact choice for buyers prioritizing cost-effective transportation with flexible door configurations and a straightforward trim ladder.
