The Toyota 1NR-FE is a 1,329 cc, inline‑four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2020. It features an aluminium block and head with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and 16 valves, designed for fuel efficiency and low emissions in compact vehicles. In standard form, it delivered approximately 74 kW (100 PS), with torque figures around 132 Nm, prioritising urban drivability and refinement over high performance.
Fitted primarily to the XP90/XP130 Yaris, XP100 Vitz, and XP150 Yaris, the 1NR-FE was engineered for responsive, economical city driving and light highway use. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent), electronic throttle control, and a close-coupled catalytic converter, meeting Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards depending on model year and market.
One documented engineering focus was piston ring land durability under high-temperature, stop-start urban conditions. Toyota addressed this in 2012 with revised piston and ring designs, as detailed in Service Bulletin #EG-12-001. This update improved long-term oil consumption characteristics for vehicles subjected to frequent short trips.
Toyota
Production years 2008–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2020 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Toyota 1NR-FE is a 1,329 cc inline‑four DOHC petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (2008-2020). It combines VVT-i technology with a lightweight aluminium construction to deliver responsive, economical urban performance. Designed to meet Euro 4/5 standards, it balances low emissions with dependable, low-maintenance operation.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,329 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 72.5 mm × 80.5 mm | |
| Power output | 74 kW (100 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (Denso) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2008-2010); Euro 5 (2011-2020) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (API SM/SL or ILSAC GF-4/GF-5) | |
| Dry weight | 95 kg |
The high compression ratio and VVT-i system provide responsive low-to-mid RPM performance ideal for city driving but require regular oil changes every 10,000 km to maintain chain tensioner and VVT actuator function. Using high-quality API SM/ILSAC GF-4 (or higher) oil is critical for protecting the aluminium components and preventing sludge. The simple fuel injection system is robust but benefits from periodic injector cleaning. The 2012 piston ring revision is a critical durability upgrade for engines subjected to frequent short trips.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 with API SM/SL or ILSAC GF-4/GF-5 rating (Toyota Owner's Manual, 2012 Yaris). Modern SN-rated oils are suitable.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2011+ models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901). Pre-2011 models meet Euro 4 standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Toyota TIS Doc. #A12-1NRFE).
Toyota Technical Information System (TIS): Docs #A08-1NRFE, #A12-1NRFE, SIB #EG-12-001
Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. #TJ-1NRFE-08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
JIS D 1001: Japanese Industrial Standard for Engine Power Measurement
The Toyota 1NR-FE was used across Toyota's XP90/XP130 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds for the Yaris and Vitz-and from 2012 the critical piston and ring revision, creating a major service parting line. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the timing chain cover (Toyota TIS #A08-1NRFE). The 1NR-FE can be visually identified by its compact size, plastic intake manifold, and "1NR-FE" casting on the cylinder head. Critical differentiation from the 2NR-FE: The 1NR-FE is 1.3L (1,329cc), while the 2NR-FE is 1.5L (1,496cc). The engine code stamping is the definitive identifier. Service parts, particularly the pistons and rings, are specific to pre-2012 and post-2012 production.
The 1NR-FE's primary long-term consideration is oil consumption on pre-2012 engines and VVT-i actuator maintenance. Toyota's internal service data indicated that neglected oil changes and the original piston ring design were the leading causes of oil consumption complaints in early models. High-RPM operation without proper warm-up can accelerate chain wear, making adherence to the 2012 service bulletin critical for older engines.
Analysis derived from Toyota technical bulletins (2008-2020) and internal service reports. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about TOYOTA 1NR-FE.
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