Toyota Yaris Cross Urban AWD Hybrid 2021 Radio Review

Toyota introduces yet another SUV, the question is Why? Toyota Yaris Cross is based in the small urban hatchback and takes advantage of the increasing trend towards SUVs.

Toyota Yaris Cross (Urban hybrid AWD with optional black roof)

TO LISTEN TO THE RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

The Yaris Cross is available in nine variants with a choice of new petrol or hybrid powertrains, FWD or electric AWD, and three grades – GX, GXL and top-of-the-range Urban.

We drove the AWD Urban Hybrid version, packed with a heap of safety features and aimed squarely at inner city dwellers or young couples.

Toyota Yaris Cross hybrid powertrain

Powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder, hybrid petrol engine that provides a maximum combined output of 85kW and drives through a CVT. The AWD version gains a third electric motor generator to drive the rear wheels in slippery or off-tarmac conditions when maximum traction is called for. It is economical at an ADR figure of 4.0l/100k

Toyota Yaris Cross AWD Hybrid Interior

The interior, while liked by a few people that sat in it, isn’t to my taste, reminding me of a 1986 Corona. It looks cheap, maybe I’m too old to appreciate it.

Toyota doesn’t make many mistakes in its line-up, but I’m struggling to see why someone would buy this priced at $37,990 plus the usual costs, over a slightly larger C-HR Koba that is better and cheaper.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Toyota Yaris Cross (Urban hybrid AWD with optional black roof)

What is good?

  • Economy
  • Looks stylish
  • AWD safety

What is not so good?

  • Overpriced
  • Tacky interior
  • C-HR is better and cheaper

Toyota Yaris Cross AWD Hybrid transmission

Also Look At

Toyota Yaris Cross (Urban hybrid AWD with optional black roof)

Model   

Toyota Yaris Cross Urban AWD Hybrid

Model Price $37,990 MLP*
Engine 1.5l 3 Cyl Hybrid
Drivetrain CVT AWD
Power 67kW at 5,500rpm 85kW max
Torque 120 Nm @ 3,800-4,800rpm
Safety TBA
CO2 Emissions 90 g/km
Economy ADR 4.0 L/100km
Tow Capacity 400 Kg
Tow Ball Rating 40 kg
Servicing 12 MTHS/ 15,000KM Fixed Price
Warranty 5yr/ Unlimited km with 5Yr. roadside assist

 

*MLP – Manufacturers List Price includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of any options.

 

Overall Rating    

76/100

Behind the Wheel 8
Comfort 7
Equipment 8
Performance 7
Ride and Handling 7
Practicality 8
Fit for Purpose 9
Urban Appeal 8
Styling 8
Value for Money 6
Overall Rating Toyota Yaris Cross Urban AWD Hybrid
  • 8/10
    Behind the Wheel - 8/10
  • 7/10
    Comfort - 7/10
  • 8/10
    Equipment - 8/10
  • 7/10
    Performance - 7/10
  • 7/10
    Ride and Handling - 7/10
  • 8/10
    Practicality - 8/10
  • 9/10
    Fit for Purpose - 9/10
  • 8/10
    Urban Appeal - 8/10
  • 8/10
    Styling - 8/10
  • 6/10
    Value for Money - 6/10
7.6/10

Summary

Toyota doesn’t make many mistakes in its line-up, but I’m struggling to see why someone would buy this priced at $37,990 plus the usual costs, over a slightly larger C-HR Koba that is better and cheaper.