ASEAN Toyota Yaris Cross premieres in Indonesia, features first-in-class hybrid powertrain

Toyota has unveiled the ASEAN-market All-New Yaris Cross, a medium urban SUV that slots between the Toyota Raize (Specs | News) and the Corolla Cross. And our colleagues from AutoFun Indonesia were on hand to cover and take photos of the World Premiere. 

According to the Chief Engineer of the All-New Yaris Cross, Toru Uda, "We wanted to create a vehicle that embodies both youthful and fun driving experiences while maintaining the ruggedness and dependability of a crossover. The All-New Yaris Cross merges the best aspects of compact and dynamic SUVs with the allure of high-end models, resulting in a truly distinctive and eye-catching car. It offers environmentally friendly mobility solutions for those with an adventurous spirit and an active lifestyle."

But beyond the marketing language, the all-new Yaris Cross is yet another Daihatsu-bred model that boasts a muscular silhouette, a sleek roof design and widened fenders, which all exude a sense of adventure and go-anywhere capability.

Measuring 4,310 mm in length, 1,770 mm in width, and 1,615 mm in height, the all-new Yaris Cross strikes the perfect balance between urban SUV functionality and off-road capability.

Its high rocker panel height of up to 260 mm ensures it can handle both city streets and occasional trips to the beach or mountains. With a narrow front-rear overhang, an approach angle of 19º, and a departure angle of 28º, this light off-roader confidently tackles various road conditions.

Its impressive 5.2-meter turning radius, which Toyota claims is the smallest in its class, enables easy maneuverability in tight spaces, such as u-turns or parking spots.

What's inside?

Step inside, and you'll be greeted by a roomy and sporty cabin. The wide soft dashboard panel creates a luxurious ambiance that blends seamlessly with the door trim, enhancing the overall sense of space.

The all-new Toyota Yaris (Specs | News) Cross comes with first-in-class features such as 

• Panoramic Glass Roof with Power Sunshade
• Power Back Door with Kick Sensor
• Electric Seat Adjuster

The driver-oriented cockpit features a customizable 7-inch digital TFT instrument panel and a combination of black piano-finished accents, soft fabrics, and satin-finished ornaments.

The seats are stitched with blue threads and come with fabric and synthetic leather options.

It has a wheelbase of 2,620 mm, which is 40 mm shy of the Corolla Cross'. Toyota's designers have meticulously crafted a spacious interior that offers comfortable seating and versatile passenger and cargo loading capabilities. Internal tests have shown that the cabin accommodation matches that of higher-segment cars, providing ample room for five passengers, abundant storage space, and the largest trunk in its class.

What's under the hood?

Another first among its peers is the all-new Yaris Cross'  hybrid powertrain. It features a 1,500 cc 4-cylinder engine capable of producing 91 PS and 121 Nm of torque. It integrates with an electric motor that outputs 80 PS and 141 Nm of torque and a CVT transmission.

The Toyota Hybrid System (THS) incorporates an electric motor and a compact and powerful Lithium-Ion battery. This hybrid setup allows for an EV Mode, offering a quiet, responsive, and zero-emission driving experience.

Additionally, the Lithium-Ion battery used in this hybrid model is more resistant to extreme temperatures and compact in size, strategically placed beneath the rear passenger seat without compromising luggage space or cabin comfort. This placement contributes to improved handling and a lower center of gravity, making the All-New Yaris Cross even more enjoyable to drive.

For those who prefer a gasoline engine, the All-New Yaris Cross offers a 1,500 cc 4-cylinder Dual VVT-i engine. This gasoline-powered variant delivers 106 PS of power and 138 Nm of torque. Drivers can choose between a 5-speed manual transmission or a CVT, both of which provide responsive performance and excellent fuel economy. 

All-out on safety

The Urban SUV boasts an Electric Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Brake Hold, six airbags, ABS+EBD+BA brakes, Parking Sensors, Emergency Stop Signal, Hill Start Assist (HSA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and Blind Spot Monitor (BSM). Additionally, the Panoramic View Monitor feature provides comprehensive visibility assistance while driving, further enhancing safety.

The all-new Yaris Cross incorporates Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), advanced active safety technology, and advanced convenient features known as T Intouch. These features offer peace of mind and ensure that drivers stay connected on their journeys.

With the Raize and Corolla Cross already worthy nameplates, should Toyota Motor Philippines add another urban crossover to its local lineup?