Toyota Malaysia has posted an image on its Facebook page showing the rear quarter of a car, partially covered by a crowd of balloons. If you’ve been following recent developments in the local automotive scene, you’ll likely recognise it, because this is the upcoming Toyota Yaris Cross, twin to the Perodua Traz.
We’re not just jumping straight into conclusions here. The Perodua Traz in Malaysia is actually based on the ASEAN-market Toyota Yaris Cross, which was first launched in Indonesia a few years ago and eventually in Thailand. So why is it only arriving now? Most likely due to Daihatsu’s safety testing scandal that surfaced in late 2023.
Looking at the Toyota Yaris Cross overseas, the car should look nearly identical to the Perodua Traz. Both cars feature the same up-facing L-shaped taillight signature, D-pillar, and squared-off wheel arches. The only noticeable difference here is that the Toyota adds body-coloured roof rails.
As for what lies under the bonnet, the Perodua Traz is currently offered solely with a naturally aspirated (NA) powertrain. This suggests the Toyota Yaris Cross in Malaysia could offer the same NA option, alongside the hybrid (HEV) setup already available overseas.
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The NA variant should mirror the setup found in the Perodua Traz, featuring a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 106 hp and 138 Nm. This is paired with a D-CVT gearbox, driving the front wheels only.
That hybrid variant pairs a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, similar to the Myvi’s, producing 91 hp and 121 Nm, with an electric motor delivering 80 hp and 141 Nm. Combined system output stands at 111 hp, with drive sent exclusively to the front wheels via an eCVT.
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Additionally, the Toyota Yaris Cross should also carry a more comprehensive suite of safety systems that was not featured in the Perodua. Some features could include autonomous cruise control and lane departure warning with steering assist.
Toyota has yet to confirm a launch date for the Yaris Cross, but we likely won’t have to wait long to see it on the road. As for pricing, the Perodua Traz ranges from RM76,100 to RM82,000 (on-the-road, without insurance). Should the Yaris Cross arrive in Malaysia as an HEV only, expect it to command a higher price.
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