Toyota recently introduced the new Yaris Cross in Indonesia. We talked about this model a few months back as there are advanced plans to build it in Brazil. It should be noted that there already exists a Yaris Cross based on the “original” Yaris which is manufactured in Europe and is currently marketed in our country. For its part, the Asian version takes as a reference the Yaris sedan that is produced in these latitudes.
The Yaris Cross that is making its debut in the ASEAN region will most importantly follow the path of the Innova Hybrid, driving the transition from heat engine to solution with some degree of electrification. This is allowed by the brand’s DNGA platform (developed in conjunction with Daihatsu) which will allow other models to be updated with this type of engine.
“This year, the Indonesian auto industry will enter an era of electrification. This is promoted by various government policies that focus on eco-friendly electrified technologies to reduce carbon emissions. Toyota will introduce electrified products with various technology options. From hybrid and plug-in hybrid to electric, we aim to offer a comprehensive offering across best-selling segments and at affordable prices. Hiroyuki Ueda, CEO, Toyota-Astra Motor says, ” One of our milestones is the Innova Hybrid, the first locally manufactured model with hybrid technology and now the new Yaris Cross as the first hybrid in this market in the SUV-B segment.” …
Yaris Cross: Dimensions and Design
The Indonesian Yaris Cross seeks to combine a strong silhouette with modern elements. This includes trapezoidal air inlets and sharp lines, which are noticeable in the light. It gives the illusion of being in front of a “mini RAV4”.
The drop in roofline and taillights also add to this impression of solidity, despite the fact that the model is compact.
Elements of the GR Sport package can be seen in some of the images, such as the black roof or the sleek sports wheels.
Yaris Cross: Interior
Inside, the Yaris sedan’s console was completely carried over, with a horizontal distribution, with the 7″ screen of the multimedia system aligned with the instrument panel and with a raised center console that slightly lowers some elements. functions, such as the power button or air conditioning
Top-of-the-range versions in Asia could include two-tone cabin with blue contrast, high connectivity, soft-touch panel, power driver’s seat, largest panoramic roof in the segment and power trunk hatch. Opening in gestures, among others.
The safety package is high, including six airbags, dynamic stability control, ABS and EBD brakes, hill start assist, electric parking brake, parking sensors and some assistance from the Toyota Safety Sense package, such as blind spot monitor and cross traffic.
Yaris Cross: Engine
On the powertrain side, there’s a gasoline and a hybrid option, the latter being the highlight of this premiere.
The first proposal considers a 1.5 D-VVTi with 105 hp of power and 138 Nm of torque, mated to a five-speed manual gearbox or CVT.
For its part, the hybrid system is based on the same engine, but designed under the Toyota Hybrid System concept. Thanks to the electric drive and a lithium-ion battery pack located under the rear seats, the system can reach 110 hp of power even considering 100% electric mode.
This Yaris Cross was conceived under four pillars: acceleration response, cabin soundproofing, consumption economy and low emissions, points that would be the main highlights of the model.
While it will go on sale soon in the ASEAN region, it is almost certain that this model will be what Toyota plans to build in Brazil, with minimal changes to adapt it to our region, where it will compete against models like the Arriving to fight it out would be the Nissan Kicks or the Volkswagen T-Cross, among others.
