Toyota Motor Corporation has released the Yaris Cross, a new-model compact SUV in Japan. The development of the new-generation Yaris Cross aims to pursue new value as a compact SUV that not only offers convenience but also carries on the nimble driving, advanced security and safety technology, and superior fuel economy features of the Yaris series.

The all-new Yaris Cross is Toyota’s first compact vehicle to adopt the TNGA platform (GA-B). Like a package that can make full use of this performance, in addition to the “condensed” design, the new model features lean, well-balanced, and refined proportions that express the robustness and presence unique to an SUV. Although a compact SUV, the Yaris Cross claims to offer easy-to-use and uncompromising luggage room that supports the active lifestyle of its driver and passengers.

Yaris Cross has the same 2,560 mm wheelbase as the new Yaris hatchback, but is 240 mm longer overall, with 60 mm added to the front overhang and 180 mm to the rear, securing more interior space. The ground clearance is 30 mm higher and the vehicle is taller and wider overall – by 90 and 20 mm respectively.

On the inside, there’s a power back door for when your hands are full. And an adjustable deck height to give the flexibility of either a secure underfloor compartment or increased trunk space for larger loads. In addition, the deck board itself can be split into two, giving customers both increased space and an underfloor storage area.

The trunk is also equipped with a new flex belt system to secure items and stop them from shifting during driving. Yaris Cross is just as spacious as it is practical. With all seats up and tonneau cover in place, it delivers a large trunk volume. However, if more load capacity is needed, then there’s a 40:20:40 foldable rear seat system to balance rear passenger space with cargo needs.

Toyota’s world leadership in hybrid vehicle technology includes the first use of a hybrid system in a B-segment car with the original Yaris Hybrid in 2012. The unmatched experience it has gained ensures that Yaris Cross’s new fourth-generation hybrid powertrain delivers exceptional performance and efficiency.

There is a gasoline-powered 1.5-liter Dynamic Force Engine that is loaded with functions that offer a satisfying SUV driving performance, including ‘Multi-terrain Select’ that allows the driver to choose between three modes to adjust to road surface conditions. Toyota is also offering HEV models featuring the E-Four (electric 4WD system) for the first time in a compact car.

Furthermore, the hybrid variant achieves a world-class, top-level fuel economy for its class (2WD, 30.8 km/L in WLTC mode) that surpasses what is the typical performance of an SUV. For security and safety technologies, Toyota Safety Sense, the company’s newest active safety package, comes as a standard feature. This includes Toyota Teammate, Advanced Park, an advanced driving support system, including Full-Speed Range Radar Cruise Control that supports driving behind another car, and an Adaptive Hi-beam System (AHS).