Toyota has revealed the C-HR’s younger sibling, the AWD hybrid Yaris Cross



The Yaris Cross that’s built on Toyota’s TNGA-B platform, similar to the Yaris hatchback, will take the fight to the likes of Nissan’s Juke.

The Yaris Cross comes with AWD and is powered by the same 1.5-litre 3-cylinder engine paired to an electric motor like in the standard Yaris, with a total output of 116 hp. Toyota says the powertrain focuses on power delivery, for a more responsive drive.

Being the younger brother to the C-HR, the Yaris Cross hasn’t exactly inherited the same design DNA and it’s probably a good thing. While we may unanimously agree that the C-HR looks futuristic, its design is certainly not for everyone. Instead, it takes more from the new RAV-4 and the new Harrier which was just revealed recently for a more neutral, more widely acceptable look.

It’s got a slightly sleeker front end than the RAV-4 with sharper edges but a quick side-by-side comparison and you’d instantly know where the Yaris Cross’ inspiration came from. It even sports the same squared wheel arches, a blacked-out roof and near-identical C-pillar design with the RAV-4, with tail lights that stretches across the entire tailgate like the Harrier.

Even though it shares the same wheelbase as the standard Yaris hatchback, it’s been extended by 240 mm in length for more space in the cabin. For the same purpose, the Yaris Cross is also 20 mm wider, with 30 mm more ground clearance than the hatchback.

The Yaris Cross is available with 18-inch wheels and a new colour called Brass Gold. Not much has been shared on what will be available inside but a powered tailgate, height adjustable boot floor, 40:20:40 split folding rear seats were mentioned. Judging from the images, Apple CarPlay, auto brake hold, and the Toyota Safety Sense driver assistance system will also be offered.


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