Let's dive into the 2009 Toyota Yaris specifications. For those of you eyeing a used Yaris or just curious about this model year, you've come to the right place. We'll cover everything from engine specs to fuel economy, interior features to safety ratings, ensuring you get a comprehensive understanding of what the 2009 Yaris offers. Whether you're a first-time car buyer or a seasoned auto enthusiast, this guide is designed to provide valuable insights.

Engine and Performance

The heart of the 2009 Toyota Yaris is its engine, a 1.5-liter four-cylinder that's both fuel-efficient and surprisingly peppy. This engine delivers around 106 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque, which might not sound like a lot, but remember, the Yaris is a small, lightweight car. This combination makes it feel more energetic than the numbers suggest. The engine is designed with fuel efficiency in mind, incorporating technologies like Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) to optimize performance and reduce emissions. This system adjusts the intake and exhaust valve timing based on driving conditions, enhancing both power output and fuel economy. The Yaris is available with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission offers a more engaging driving experience, allowing drivers to have greater control over the engine's power band. The automatic transmission, on the other hand, provides convenience and ease of use, especially in city driving. Both transmissions are well-suited to the engine's characteristics, providing smooth and responsive performance. The Yaris's engine is also known for its reliability and durability, making it a popular choice for those seeking a dependable and long-lasting vehicle. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and filter replacements, can help ensure that the engine continues to perform optimally for many years. Furthermore, the engine's simple design makes it relatively easy to service and repair, reducing the cost of ownership over the long term. Overall, the 2009 Toyota Yaris's engine is a well-engineered and efficient powerplant that provides a good balance of performance and fuel economy.

Fuel Economy

One of the standout features of the 2009 Toyota Yaris is its impressive fuel economy. With an EPA rating of around 29 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, the Yaris is a champion when it comes to saving you money at the pump. These figures are especially appealing to those who commute long distances or drive frequently in urban environments. The Yaris achieves its excellent fuel economy through a combination of factors, including its lightweight design, efficient engine, and aerodynamic shape. The car's small size and low weight reduce the amount of energy required to move it, while the engine's advanced technologies, such as Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), optimize fuel consumption. The Yaris's aerodynamic design also helps to reduce drag, further improving fuel economy at higher speeds. In real-world driving conditions, many owners report even better fuel economy than the EPA estimates, especially on long highway trips. To maximize fuel efficiency, it's important to maintain the car properly, including keeping the tires properly inflated, performing regular oil changes, and avoiding aggressive driving habits. Smooth acceleration and consistent speeds can significantly improve fuel economy. Additionally, reducing unnecessary weight in the car can also help to boost fuel efficiency. The Yaris's excellent fuel economy makes it an attractive option for environmentally conscious drivers who want to reduce their carbon footprint. By consuming less fuel, the Yaris emits fewer greenhouse gases, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable environment. Overall, the 2009 Toyota Yaris's fuel economy is one of its strongest selling points, providing drivers with significant savings and environmental benefits.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2009 Toyota Yaris, you'll find a functional and practical interior designed with simplicity in mind. While it might not be the most luxurious cabin, it offers a comfortable and user-friendly experience. The Yaris comes standard with features like air conditioning, a basic audio system, and comfortable cloth seats. The base models typically include a CD player, but higher trims may offer upgraded audio options. The interior design is straightforward, with controls that are easy to reach and understand. The dashboard layout is clean and uncluttered, with a centrally mounted instrument panel that provides essential information at a glance. Storage space is adequate for a small car, with door pockets, a glove compartment, and a center console providing room for personal items. The rear seats can be folded down to increase cargo space, making the Yaris surprisingly versatile for carrying larger items. While the interior materials are mostly hard plastics, they are durable and easy to clean. The seats are generally comfortable for shorter trips, but may become less supportive on longer journeys. The Yaris also offers decent headroom and legroom for its size, making it suitable for both front and rear passengers. One of the notable features of the Yaris is its available power windows and locks, which add convenience and ease of use. Some models also come with keyless entry, which allows drivers to unlock and lock the doors without using a key. Overall, the interior of the 2009 Toyota Yaris is functional and practical, offering a comfortable and user-friendly experience for both drivers and passengers. While it may not be the most luxurious cabin, it provides all the essential features needed for daily driving.

Safety Ratings and Features

When it comes to safety, the 2009 Toyota Yaris has you covered with a range of features designed to protect occupants. Standard safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes (ABS), which help prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, and multiple airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags. These airbags provide additional protection in the event of a collision, reducing the risk of injury to the driver and passengers. The Yaris also comes with Toyota's Star Safety System, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC). VSC helps to prevent skidding by automatically applying the brakes and adjusting engine power when the car detects a loss of traction. TRAC helps to maintain traction during acceleration, preventing wheel spin and improving stability. In government crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2009 Toyota Yaris received good overall safety ratings. The Yaris performed well in frontal and side impact tests, providing a high level of protection to occupants. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also gave the Yaris good ratings in its crash tests, further confirming its safety performance. In addition to its crash test performance, the Yaris also offers several active safety features that help to prevent accidents from occurring in the first place. These features include good visibility, responsive steering, and reliable brakes, which allow drivers to maintain control of the car in a variety of driving conditions. The Yaris also comes with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), which alerts drivers when tire pressure is low, helping to prevent blowouts and improve fuel economy. Overall, the 2009 Toyota Yaris is a safe and reliable car that offers a range of safety features designed to protect occupants and prevent accidents. Its good crash test ratings and comprehensive safety equipment make it a popular choice for safety-conscious drivers.

Trim Levels and Configurations

The 2009 Toyota Yaris comes in a few different trim levels, each offering a slightly different set of features and options. The base model is the Yaris Sedan, which comes standard with features like air conditioning, a basic audio system, and comfortable cloth seats. The Yaris Liftback is another popular option, offering a more sporty and versatile design with a hatchback configuration. Higher trim levels, such as the Yaris S, add features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, and a sport-tuned suspension. These models offer a more premium and sporty driving experience. The Yaris is available in both two-door and four-door configurations, allowing buyers to choose the body style that best suits their needs. The two-door models offer a more compact and sporty look, while the four-door models provide easier access to the rear seats. The Yaris is also available with either a manual or automatic transmission, giving buyers the option to choose the transmission that best fits their driving style. The manual transmission offers a more engaging driving experience, while the automatic transmission provides convenience and ease of use. Depending on the trim level, the Yaris may also come with additional options such as power windows and locks, keyless entry, and an upgraded audio system. These options allow buyers to customize their Yaris to their specific preferences and needs. The Yaris is also available in a variety of exterior colors, allowing buyers to choose the color that best reflects their personality and style. Overall, the 2009 Toyota Yaris offers a range of trim levels and configurations to suit a variety of buyers. Whether you're looking for a basic and affordable commuter car or a more sporty and well-equipped hatchback, there's a Yaris model that's right for you.

Common Problems and Reliability

Like any car, the 2009 Toyota Yaris has its share of common problems. However, it's generally considered to be a reliable vehicle. Some owners have reported issues with the car's air conditioning system, which may require repairs over time. Others have experienced problems with the car's electrical system, such as faulty sensors or wiring. However, these issues are relatively rare and can usually be resolved with proper maintenance and repairs. One of the most common complaints about the Yaris is its lack of power, especially when accelerating from a stop or climbing hills. The car's small engine can sometimes feel underpowered, especially when carrying passengers or cargo. However, this is to be expected given the car's small size and fuel-efficient design. Another potential issue to be aware of is the car's suspension, which may become worn over time, leading to a rougher ride. Regular inspections and maintenance can help to prevent this problem and ensure that the car continues to ride smoothly. Despite these potential issues, the 2009 Toyota Yaris is generally considered to be a reliable and durable car. It has a good reputation for longevity and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Regular oil changes, filter replacements, and other routine maintenance tasks can help to keep the car running smoothly and prevent major problems from occurring. Overall, the 2009 Toyota Yaris is a solid and dependable car that offers good value for money. Its reliability and fuel efficiency make it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers who are looking for a practical and affordable commuter car.

Market Value and Pricing

When considering a 2009 Toyota Yaris, understanding its market value and pricing is crucial. The price of a used 2009 Yaris can vary depending on factors such as its condition, mileage, trim level, and location. Generally, you can expect to find these models priced between $5,000 and $9,000. Models in excellent condition with low mileage will typically command higher prices, while those with more wear and tear or higher mileage may be available for less. It's essential to do your research and compare prices from different sources to get a sense of the fair market value. Websites like Kelley Blue Book (KBB) and Edmunds can provide valuable information on used car prices in your area. When negotiating the price of a used Yaris, be sure to consider any potential repair costs or maintenance needs. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic can help to identify any hidden issues that may affect the car's value. It's also a good idea to check the car's vehicle history report to ensure that it hasn't been involved in any accidents or had any major repairs. The Yaris's reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency can help to maintain its value over time. These factors make it a popular choice among budget-conscious buyers who are looking for a practical and affordable car. Overall, the 2009 Toyota Yaris offers good value for money, with its low running costs and dependable performance. By doing your research and negotiating carefully, you can find a Yaris that fits your budget and meets your needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2009 Toyota Yaris is a practical, fuel-efficient, and reliable subcompact car that's perfect for city dwellers and budget-conscious drivers. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver and park in tight spaces, while its fuel-efficient engine helps to save money at the pump. The Yaris also offers a range of safety features and a comfortable interior, making it a great choice for daily commuting and short trips. While it may not be the most exciting car on the road, the Yaris is a dependable and affordable option that offers good value for money. Its reputation for reliability and longevity makes it a popular choice among used car buyers. If you're looking for a practical and economical car that's easy to own and maintain, the 2009 Toyota Yaris is definitely worth considering. Its combination of fuel efficiency, reliability, and affordability make it a standout in the subcompact class. Whether you're a first-time car buyer or a seasoned driver, the Yaris offers a compelling package that's hard to beat.