Toyota’s new Yaris Cross not for Canada
Toyota has finally taken the wraps off its latest Yaris-based crossover.
The Yaris Cross is now the gateway into Toyota’s burgeoning SUV and crossover lineup, at least in Europe. It’s roughly the same height as the C-HR, but a touch shorter and narrower — and considerably less polarizing, thanks to more traditional styling cues and proportions. In fact, the squaredoff wheel arches, body cladding, and two-tone paintwork bear a striking resemblance to the RAV4.
Inside, though, it’s pretty much all Yaris. The overall layout and smaller bits, such as the steering wheel, instrument cluster, and infotainment system, are shared between the two. The layout seems intuitive and ambient lighting adds a funky touch. The Yaris Cross ought to fit four comfortably — five in a pinch. Active safety features such as automatic braking and lane-keep assist are standard.
The Yaris Cross will be offered with two powertrains. The base is a gasoline 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine, but a hybrid powertrain is optional. The hybrid will see 116 net horsepower, although exact fuel economy figures (as well as official horsepower and torque figures for the gas engine alone) have yet to be announced. Allwheel drive will be optional on hybrid models.
If you’re hoping the Yaris Cross will be sold in Canada, you’re out of luck. But it’s understandable, given it’s based on the European-spec Yaris, which is completely different than the hatchback and sedan sold in Canada.