Toyota introduces yet another SUV, the question is Why? Toyota Yaris Cross is based in the small urban hatchback and takes advantage of the increasing trend towards SUVs.
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The Yaris Cross is available in nine variants with a choice of new petrol or hybrid powertrains, FWD or electric AWD, and three grades – GX, GXL and top-of-the-range Urban.
We drove the AWD Urban Hybrid version, packed with a heap of safety features and aimed squarely at inner city dwellers or young couples.
Powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder, hybrid petrol engine that provides a maximum combined output of 85kW and drives through a CVT. The AWD version gains a third electric motor generator to drive the rear wheels in slippery or off-tarmac conditions when maximum traction is called for. It is economical at an ADR figure of 4.0l/100k
The interior, while liked by a few people that sat in it, isn’t to my taste, reminding me of a 1986 Corona. It looks cheap, maybe I’m too old to appreciate it.
Toyota doesn’t make many mistakes in its line-up, but I’m struggling to see why someone would buy this priced at $37,990 plus the usual costs, over a slightly larger C-HR Koba that is better and cheaper.
This is a Motoring Minute
Im Rob Fraser
What is good?
- Economy
- Looks stylish
- AWD safety
What is not so good?
- Overpriced
- Tacky interior
- C-HR is better and cheaper
Also Look At
Model | Toyota Yaris Cross Urban AWD Hybrid |
| Model Price | $37,990 MLP* |
| Engine | 1.5l 3 Cyl Hybrid |
| Drivetrain | CVT AWD |
| Power | 67kW at 5,500rpm 85kW max |
| Torque | 120 Nm @ 3,800-4,800rpm |
| Safety | TBA |
| CO2 Emissions | 90 g/km |
| Economy ADR | 4.0 L/100km |
| Tow Capacity | 400 Kg |
| Tow Ball Rating | 40 kg |
| Servicing | 12 MTHS/ 15,000KM Fixed Price |
| Warranty | 5yr/ Unlimited km with 5Yr. roadside assist |
*MLP – Manufacturers List Price includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of any options.
Overall Rating | 76/100 |
| Behind the Wheel | 8 |
| Comfort | 7 |
| Equipment | 8 |
| Performance | 7 |
| Ride and Handling | 7 |
| Practicality | 8 |
| Fit for Purpose | 9 |
| Urban Appeal | 8 |
| Styling | 8 |
| Value for Money | 6 |
Overall Rating Toyota Yaris Cross Urban AWD Hybrid
- Behind the Wheel - 8/108/10
- Comfort - 7/107/10
- Equipment - 8/108/10
- Performance - 7/107/10
- Ride and Handling - 7/107/10
- Practicality - 8/108/10
- Fit for Purpose - 9/109/10
- Urban Appeal - 8/108/10
- Styling - 8/108/10
- Value for Money - 6/106/10
Summary
Toyota doesn’t make many mistakes in its line-up, but I’m struggling to see why someone would buy this priced at $37,990 plus the usual costs, over a slightly larger C-HR Koba that is better and cheaper.
