2009 Toyota Yaris: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2009 Toyota Yaris gets a meaningful safety upgrade: anti-lock brakes, front-seat side airbags, and curtain airbags are standard across the lineup. This is a mid-cycle update, not a redesign.
About the 2009 Toyota Yaris
First-generation U.S. Yaris (XP90), middle years before the 2012 redesign; 2009 is the first year with the five-door liftback.
Toyota positions the Yaris as a value-first subcompact that pairs strong fuel economy with more choice than most rivals. Its big differentiator is body-style variety: a three-door hatchback, a new five-door hatchback, or a sedan. Toyota also leans on standard safety and everyday ease, with a small footprint, light controls, and simple packaging. For most shoppers, the Yaris is the straightforward commuter Toyota: inexpensive to run, easy to park, and offered in either playful hatchback or more traditional sedan form.
The 2009 Yaris is a simple, efficiency-focused small car that comes as a three-door hatchback, five-door hatchback, or sedan. Base models focus on essentials such as air conditioning, while the S has a sportier look, fog lamps, sport seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, and upgraded audio without extra engine power.
What changed, by category
2009 Toyota Yaris specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 29 mpg | 29 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 35–36 mpg | 35–36 mpg |
| Horsepower | 106 hp | 106 hp |
| Torque | 103 lb-ft | 103 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 9.3–13.7 cu-ft | 9.3–12.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33.8–35.6 in | 33.8–35.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 2–4 | 2–4 |
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| AM/FM Radio | ||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||
| Tilt Wheel | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 Toyota Yaris?
The biggest change is improved standard safety equipment. Every 2009 Yaris has anti-lock brakes, front-seat side airbags, and front and rear side-curtain airbags.
Is 2009 the first year for the five-door Toyota Yaris?
Yes. The five-door hatchback joins the Yaris lineup for 2009 alongside the three-door hatchback and sedan.
Was the 2009 Toyota Yaris redesigned?
No. The 2009 Yaris remains part of the first U.S. generation, but it receives broader standard safety equipment, a five-door body style, and an expanded trim lineup.
Does the 2009 Toyota Yaris S have more power than the Base trim?
No. The S uses the same 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and front-wheel-drive layout as the Base trim. Its differences are mainly sportier exterior details and upgraded cabin features.