Overview

Sitting at the bottom of Toyota’s well-developed SUV lineup is the Yaris Cross. The Yaris name is deceptive, positioning it as a hybrid-powered small, city-friendly SUV, when in fact it has a usefully shaped large boot and wide-opening rear doors. Increased ground clearance and impressive economy for a small hybrid SUV complete the package, wrapped up with a 10-year warranty bow.

While it is good, it’s competing with some exceptional rivals. The Peugeot 2008, Nissan Juke, Renault Captur, Skoda Kamiq and Volkswagen T-Cross are all highly talented alternatives, and that’s before you consider the award-winning Ford Puma.

The Yaris Cross has a few tricks to keep it on your shopping list, including models with all-wheel drive, but it’s the solidity of the overall package that makes it worth considering.

Where the exterior of the Yaris Cross owes little to its supermini namesake, the interior is very similar. Lots of charcoal plastic and fabric with little by way of customisation to lighten the mood, it’s hardwearing and comfortable enough, but doesn’t feel special.

Making life easy, the Yaris Cross only has one engine to choose from, and it’s a hybrid. Despite the lack of a plug-in option it can comfortably exceed 50mpg, and approach 60mpg when the traffic suits. You do get a choice of trims, though – Icon, Design, Excel, and GR Sport all offering slightly different kit levels for an increasing amount of money.

Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about the Toyota Yaris Cross including its practicality, how much it costs to run and whether we recommend it or not.