Toyota Yaris Vs. Yaris Cross: Low-riding hatchback or high-riding SUV

The Japanese automaker revealed the revamped version of Toyota Yaris for Asian and European countries last October. And recently, it wraps off the cover of a new compact SUV, Yaris Cross, which is based on the Yaris hatchback’s GA-B platform. 

2020 Toyota Yaris will be coming to the European showrooms this summer, while the arrival of Yaris Cross is scheduled for next year. So, if you are wondering to buy any of the latest iterations of Toyota Yaris, you have come to the right place. In this article, we pit the two models on important parameters and see which one is high on value.

Dimensions

Yaris Cross sits below the C-HR in the Toyota’s lineup and measures 4180 mm in length, 1765 mm in width, and 1560 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2560 mm. As compared to the 2020 Yaris hatchback, it is 240 mm longer, 20 mm wider, and 90 mm taller. The larger overhangs of the SUV, both front and rear, result in higher length, as it is 60 mm longer in the front and 180 cm longer at the back. 

The Yaris SUV has an additional ground clearance of 30mm. However, the wheelbase of both models is equal as they are based on the same architecture. 

Measurements	Toyota Yaris	Toyota Yaris Cross
Length	3,940 mm	4,180 mm
Width	1,745 mm	1,765 mm
Height	1,470 mm	1,560 mm
Wheelbase	2,560 mm	2,560 mm

Exterior styling

In the matter of exterior styling, the two models have several differences. The Yaris Cross seems similar to the robust RAV4, rather than the fancy C-HR. One of the differences is that it does not have curvy lines like the Yaris hatch instead features sharper edges for a more boxy-design, which firm claims give a sense of “solidity and practicality”. For a more adventurous look of SUV, it is decked up with massive and squared design language while the new Yaris have rounded shapes and revised straight lines.

Moreover, wheel openings also highlight the contrast in design language. The wheel arches of the Yaris Cross have a polygonal pattern, while Yaris features a circular pattern. Thus to fill the large wheel arches, the SUV comes with 18-inch alloy wheels. Among the exterior shade choices, a new Brass Gold shade will be available with Yaris Cross.

Interior

Being more substantial in dimensions, it is evident that the Yaris Cross offers more space inside the cabin. The height difference of 90 mm bestows the more headroom, whereas the revised body structure adds more elbow to elbow space.

When it comes to interior layout, the two models are almost identical, featuring the same steering wheel, centre console as well as door panels. There are also some differences, including the instrument panel design, fabrics, and materials. The instrument cluster of 2020 Toyota Yaris has an information screen in the middle of two circular indications, whereas Yaris Cross has a single-element speedometer in the center.

Engine

Yaris Cross will come in two drivetrain options - 1.5-litre petrol-only and hybrid, while the new hatchback will arrive with three choices - 1.0-litre petrol, 1.5-litre hybrid, and 1.5-litre petrol. The hybrid trims of both the models are powered by the same 1.5-litre three-cylinder powertrain producing 116 PS of power. However, the SUV will offer both FWD and an e-AWD.

Safety

2020 Yaris include the Toyota Safety Sense active safety suite. Other features include lane tracing assist, secondary collision brake, low-speed acceleration control, auto high beam, road sign assist, etc. Little is known for Yaris Cross, but it is expected to carry the standard features of the hatch along with some add-ons.

Price

2020 Toyota Yaris price is expected to be less than €20,000 (RM 94,525), while the Yaris Cross price is yet to be revealed, we are expecting a decent premium over the hatchback.

Verdict

Toyota Yaris has always been a popular car in its segment, and for 2020 iteration, the firm has left no stone unturned for placing it in the buyer’s hit list. While with an SUV treatment, the Yaris looks even more exceptional. So, if you are looking for a tiny and affordable SUV, you can go with the Yaris Cross. Otherwise, you can opt for the familiar hatchback, which is well-sorted and safe.

Also read: A sneak-peek at Toyota’s upcoming vehicle timeline