Toyota is now making its Yaris even more “cross-like”

Toyota has picked up speed again in Austria after a dry spell. Sales have now returned from four-digit figures to five-digit figures. In 2023, around 12,600 new registrations were registered; the Japanese have not done so well in Austria for more than ten years. This year, they want to increase the pace and break the 14,000 mark. The driving force will be the Yaris Cross, which is now even more “cross-like” after a subtle but effective model update. Above all, a more powerful hybrid engine (130 hp) and the all-wheel drive option should ensure that the compact SUV can easily defend its title of being the best-selling Toyota model in the country this year.

“I am sure that the new Yaris Cross will help us grow,” says Holger Nelsbach, Managing Director of Toyota Austria, who describes this model as the “most important car for Toyota in Austria.” It plays the role of a “significant sales driver.” Nelsbach: “Our dealers have recently invested a lot, so the new Yaris Cross comes at just the right time.”

The developers took a three-pronged approach to the model update. Significant improvements can be seen in the driving dynamics (in addition to the 116 hp entry-level model, there is a 130 hp alternative), in the styling (e.g. a new digital cockpit) and in the safety features with numerous dynamic driving assistants. Although the Yaris Cross has more power, it has not become any thirstier with the next stage of the hybrid system – Toyota calls it the fifth generation (factory specification 4.5 liters per 100 kilometers).

It is powerful, but not loud: Toyota engineers were also very resourceful in combating engine and wind noise. In the first few test kilometers, the three-cylinder engine (1.5 liter displacement) actually proved to be a kind of horsepower whisperer – as long as you didn’t pull out the whip. In fact, over around 180 test kilometers, we achieved an average fuel consumption of four liters.

Starting at 28,990 euros

The new Yaris Cross can be ordered immediately, and the first cars are due to hit the streets in June. The warranty can be extended to up to 10 years (maximum 160,000 kilometers) if the car is regularly serviced at a Toyota dealership. The entry level for the new Yaris Cross has been adjusted to 28,990 euros (116 hp). The cheapest all-wheel drive with the 130 hp hybrid drive is available for 34,990 euros.