Toyota Yaris Cross: Everything You Need to Know About the SUV Variant

The Toyota Yaris Cross brings together the versatility of an SUV with the compact nature of the Yaris hatchback. It’s perfect for drivers who want the elevated driving position and rugged looks of an SUV but still value a smaller car’s manoeuvrability and fuel efficiency. If you’re considering this model, you’re in the right place. Here’s everything you need to know about the Toyota Yaris Cross, including its features, performance, and why it stands out in the crowded SUV market.

The Evolution of the Toyota Yaris: From Hatchback to SUV

The Yaris name has been around since the late 1990s, originally introduced as a supermini with a reputation for reliability and fuel economy.

Over the years, the Yaris has evolved, incorporating cutting-edge hybrid technology and adopting more refined designs.

Toyota’s decision to develop an SUV version, the Yaris Cross, represents a significant shift in the Yaris lineup, addressing the growing demand for compact crossovers that combine everyday practicality with a hint of adventure.

The Yaris Cross slots comfortably into Toyota’s SUV range, sitting below the larger C-HR and RAV4 models.

It gives drivers a taste of Toyota’s SUV expertise in a more manageable package, making it ideal for urban environments. If you’re interested in learning more about Toyota’s global operations, check out our page on where the Toyota Yaris is made.

Exterior Design and Features of the Toyota Yaris Cross

Visually, the Yaris Cross stands out from the regular Yaris hatchback with its rugged SUV-inspired design.

It sports a higher ground clearance, pronounced wheel arches, and a chunkier stance that give it a more imposing look.

The exterior features sharp LED headlights, a distinctive front grille, and optional roof rails that accentuate its adventurous spirit.

For those who like to customise their car’s appearance, the Yaris Cross offers various colour choices, including striking options like Brass Gold and Tokyo Red.

Higher trim levels come with larger alloy wheels and additional styling elements, such as a two-tone roof, giving the car an even more dynamic look.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin that’s both stylish and practical.

The Yaris Cross offers seating for five, with a versatile interior layout that allows you to maximise passenger comfort or cargo space.

The raised driving position provides excellent visibility, while the build quality and materials used in the cabin are a step up from what you might expect in a small car.

The dashboard features a well-laid-out infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard, ensuring that you stay connected on the move.

Climate control, wireless phone charging, and a head-up display are available on higher trims, adding a touch of luxury to the driving experience.

When it comes to boot space, the Yaris Cross offers a generous 397 litres, which can be expanded to accommodate larger loads by folding down the rear seats.

Performance and Engine Options

The Yaris Cross primarily relies on Toyota’s well-established hybrid technology, with a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor.

This setup provides a combined power output of 114 horsepower, delivering adequate performance for city driving and the occasional motorway journey.

The hybrid system operates seamlessly, switching between electric and petrol power to optimise fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

For those who want a little more capability, the Yaris Cross also comes with an optional intelligent all-wheel-drive system (AWD-i).

This system is particularly useful in slippery conditions, such as during winter or on gravel roads, giving the Yaris Cross an edge over many competitors in this segment.

Hybrid Technology: What Makes the Yaris Cross Eco-Friendly?

The Yaris Cross benefits from Toyota’s long-standing expertise in hybrid technology.

The self-charging hybrid system combines a petrol engine with an electric motor, automatically switching between the two depending on driving conditions.

This helps to maximise fuel economy, with official figures indicating that the Yaris Cross can achieve up to 55 mpg, making it one of the most fuel-efficient compact SUVs available.

The car also features regenerative braking, which captures energy lost during braking and uses it to recharge the battery.

This means you can drive short distances purely on electric power, especially in slow-moving traffic, which helps reduce running costs and carbon emissions.

For more on the running costs and ownership of the Yaris Hybrid, you can check out our comprehensive guide on the Toyota Yaris Hybrid insurance group.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The Toyota Yaris Cross is available in several trim levels, each offering a different combination of features to suit various needs and budgets.

These are the main options:

• Icon: The entry-level model comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, an 8-inch touchscreen with smartphone connectivity, and Toyota Safety Sense.
• Design: Adds 17-inch alloys, LED headlights, privacy glass, and a reversing camera.
• Dynamic: For a sportier look, the Dynamic trim includes 18-inch alloys, a contrasting black roof, and front sports seats.
• Excel: The top-of-the-range model offers leather upholstery, heated front seats, and dual-zone climate control.

Prices for the Yaris Cross start from around £25,000, with higher trims costing upwards of £30,000, depending on the optional extras and packages chosen.

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety is a key strength of the Yaris Cross, thanks to Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of advanced driver assistance systems.

This includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a pre-collision system with pedestrian and cyclist detection.

The car has also been awarded a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, which underscores its protective qualities.

Additional safety features include automatic high beams, road sign recognition, and parking sensors, making the Yaris Cross a reassuring choice for family buyers.

If you’re curious about what happens if you end up with a faulty car, check out our advice on what to do if a dealership sells you a faulty car in the UK.

Fuel Economy and Running Costs

Fuel economy is one of the Yaris Cross’s main selling points.

The hybrid system ensures low fuel consumption, particularly in urban settings, where the electric motor does much of the work.

In terms of running costs, the Yaris Cross benefits from lower road tax rates due to its eco-friendly credentials, and many cities offer reduced congestion charges for hybrid vehicles.

The car’s reliability and Toyota’s comprehensive five-year warranty add to the overall value, making the Yaris Cross a cost-effective choice over time.

Toyota Yaris Cross vs. Competitors

When it comes to compact SUVs, the Yaris Cross faces stiff competition from models like the Ford Puma, Renault Captur, and Nissan Juke.

However, the Yaris Cross sets itself apart with its hybrid technology and reputation for reliability.

While rivals may offer turbocharged engines or more interior space, the Yaris Cross excels in fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and the availability of an all-wheel-drive system.

If you’re looking for a compact SUV that prioritises eco-friendliness without compromising on practicality, the Yaris Cross is a strong contender.

User Reviews and Expert Opinions

The Yaris Cross has received positive feedback from both users and automotive experts.

Drivers appreciate its fuel economy, smooth hybrid system, and urban-friendly size.

Some, however, mention that it’s not as powerful as some petrol-only rivals, and the cabin, while well-built, doesn’t have as much space as larger SUVs.

Experts highlight the car’s comprehensive safety features and hybrid technology as major selling points, with many recommending it for city dwellers and those seeking a versatile vehicle with a lower environmental impact.

Pros and Cons of the Toyota Yaris Cross

Pros:

• Excellent fuel economy with hybrid technology.
• Compact size suitable for urban driving.
• Good range of standard safety features.
• Available with all-wheel drive.
• Reputable Toyota reliability and warranty.

Cons:

• Performance may feel modest compared to non-hybrid rivals.
• Limited interior space for rear passengers.
• Higher trims can be expensive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Toyota Yaris Cross suitable for off-road driving? While it has an all-wheel-drive option, the Yaris Cross is best suited for light off-road use or gravel roads rather than rugged terrains.

How does the Yaris Cross hybrid system work? The hybrid system combines a petrol engine with an electric motor, switching between them to optimise fuel economy and reduce emissions.

What is the boot space of the Yaris Cross? The Yaris Cross offers 397 litres of boot space, expandable with the rear seats folded down.

Does the Toyota Yaris Cross come with all-wheel drive? Yes, the Yaris Cross offers an optional all-wheel-drive system for improved traction in certain conditions.

What are the warranty and service intervals for the Yaris Cross? Toyota provides a five-year or 100,000-mile warranty, with recommended service intervals every 10,000 miles or annually.

Conclusion: Is the Toyota Yaris Cross the Right SUV for You?

The Toyota Yaris Cross is an excellent choice for those who want the practicality of an SUV without the bulk.

It offers a reliable hybrid system, great fuel economy, and the kind of safety features usually found in much larger vehicles.

While it might not be the roomiest or the most powerful, its combination of eco-friendliness and urban agility makes it a compelling option for many drivers.

If you’re looking for a compact SUV that’s as comfortable navigating city streets as it is on a countryside escape, the Yaris Cross could be the perfect match.

Are you looking to buy a new used car? Contact us today and we can help you!