The Yaris Cross is powered by Toyota’s fourth generation hybrid electric technology, a system which made its debut on the new Yaris hatchback. At its heart is a three-cylinder, 1.5-litre Hybrid Dynamic Force engine that has the same basic structure and operation as the larger two-litre unit featured in the Toyota Corolla and C-HR. A long stroke, high-speed combustion, high 14:1 compression ratio and temperature and pressure control help the Atkinson cycle unit achieve high, 40% thermal efficiency, so more energy is used to power the car from every drop of fuel.

The Hybrid Dynamic Force engine is quieter during acceleration and the engine’s maximum power and torque are achieved at lower engine speeds – 92 DIN hp/68 kW at 5,500 rpm and 120 Nm between 3,600 and 4,800 rpm.

Maximum output for the total system (engine and electric motors) is 116 DIN hp/85 kW. Fuel economy and CO2 emissions (WLTP combined) are 4.4-5.0 l/100 km and 100-114 g/km (class-leading 4.7-5.1 l/100km and 106-116 g/km with AWD-i).

Electric motor and power control unit

The compact hybrid transaxle also includes an electric motor/generator giving more power and better response than the previous generation Toyota system. The 580 V motor produces 80 DIN hp/59 kW and 141 Nm of torque.

The power control also has a more compact design and a higher power density. It can control more than 100 A of current and boosts the 177.6 V of the lithium-ion hybrid battery to 580 V. Its vertically arranged transistors and efficient cooling system allow for transistor switching up to 10,000 times a second.

Lithium-ion hybrid battery

Yaris Cross uses a lithium-ion hybrid battery, with efficiency and power enhanced by reducing the resistance within the cells. The 177.6 V unit is able to produce double the amount of energy under braking and supply 50% more power when accelerating, compared to the nickel-metal hydride battery featured in the previous generation Yaris Hybrid. As well as being more powerful, it is lighter, too, the complete assembly weighing 27 kg, which further contributes to the car’s all-round efficiency.

The increased contribution from the battery helps enable a higher percentage of EV driving on urban journeys, with zero emissions and zero fuel consumption. The new Yaris Cross can comfortably cover a high proportion of around-town trips and commutes for European customers. Zero emissions driving is possible at speeds at up to 130 km/h.

1.5-litre petrol engine

Yaris Cross is also available with a 1.5-litre petrol engine – based on the same unit featured in the hybrid system – matched to a CVT or six-speed manual gearbox. The three-cylinder unit produces a maximum 125 DIN hp/92 kW at 6,600 rpm and maximum torque of 153 Nm between 4,800 and 5,000 rpm. Official WLTP fuel economy and emissions figures are 5.7-6.2 l/100km (6.0-6.4 l/100km for CVT) and 130-140 g/km (135-144 for CVT).


Compared to the hatchback, Yaris Cross is 95 mm taller at 1,595 mm, 20 mm wider (1,765 mm) and 240 mm longer (4,180 mm). The wheelbase is unchanged at 2,560 mm, but an increase in ground clearance by 25mm to 170 mm reflects its authentic SUV design, together with a high eye-point and excellent visibility for the driver. Urban agility is secured with a 5.3 m turning radius/circle (tyre).

According to model grade, Yaris Cross offers 16-inch silver alloys, 17 and 18-inch bright machined or dark grey painted alloys or 18-inch machined alloys with black paint. There are 10 paintwork choices, including new pearlescent and metallic colours; a bi-tone finish with a black, gold or white roof and is available for higher grade models.

The optimised higher driving position gives the driver good visibility expected of an SUV, with seat and steering wheel design that delivers both comfort and a strong sense of connection and command of the vehicle.

Toyota Smart Cargo
Practical, easy-to-use load space with plenty of room to accommodate leisure and travel kit as well as day-to-day cargo is an essential SUV quality, addressed by the Yaris Cross’ smart interior packaging. With all seats in place and including under the deckboard, there are 397 litres of cargo space available; drop the rear seats and the volume extends to a maximum of 1,097 litres.

Convenience is designed-in, with 60:40 or, on high grades, 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats. The ingenious Toyota Smart Cargo system, available on higher grade modes, has a two-level, 60:40 split deckboard which permits part or all of the floor section to be lowered so larger and taller items can be carried. The adaptability means there’s room enough for two large suitcases or golf bags, skis, a bike or other leisure equipment. Smaller items can be held securely in place with ease using a new Flex Belt accessory option.

Accessing the boot is made simple with the availability of a power tailgate with a kick-sensor for hands-free opening.