2010 Toyota Yaris: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2010 Toyota Yaris is that stability control and traction control became standard across the lineup. It was otherwise a light update, with a standard rear defroster, a new manual-transmission option for the five-door hatchback, and the S trim dropped.
About the 2010 Toyota Yaris
XP90 generation, late-cycle update year before the all-new 2012 Yaris liftback redesign.
Toyota positioned the Yaris as a small, sensible commuter for shoppers who wanted low fuel use, easy parking, and better-than-expected safety in a very small car. The model’s core appeal was simple transportation with a choice of hatchback usefulness or sedan trunk space, plus Toyota reliability and low running costs. Compared with many rivals at the time, Toyota leaned hard on value, maneuverability, and the fact that even this tiny entry car had a stronger standard safety story than many competitors.
Toyota positioned the 2010 Yaris as a straightforward, fuel-efficient small car focused on practical daily driving rather than extra gadgets. The lineup included a sedan plus three-door and five-door hatchbacks, all with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive, six airbags, air conditioning, and a rear window defroster.
What changed, by category
2010 Toyota Yaris specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 29 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 35–36 mpg |
| Horsepower | 106 hp |
| Torque | 104 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 9.3–12.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33.8–35.6 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2–4 |
| Fog Lights | |
| Rear Spoiler | |
| Tilt Wheel | |
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2010 Toyota Yaris?
The biggest change is standard stability control and traction control on every 2010 Yaris. These systems help the driver maintain control when the tires begin to slip.
Is the 2010 Toyota Yaris significantly different from the 2009 model?
No, the 2010 Yaris is a light update rather than a redesign. Its main upgrades are standard stability and traction control, a standard rear window defroster, and a five-speed manual option for the five-door hatchback; the S trim was also dropped.
Does every 2010 Toyota Yaris have stability control?
Yes, every 2010 Yaris has Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control as standard equipment, regardless of body style.
Was the 2010 Toyota Yaris five-door hatchback offered with a manual transmission?
Yes, the five-door hatchback gained a five-speed manual transmission option for 2010. It had previously been paired with an automatic transmission.
Was the Toyota Yaris S trim offered for 2010?
No, the S trim was dropped for the 2010 model year. The remaining Yaris lineup still covered sedan, three-door hatchback, and five-door hatchback body styles.