Toyota Yaris Cross

The Toyota Yaris Cross was previously refreshed for the 2024 model year. At that time, the compact crossover was given a new infotainment system, a new engine and improved sound insulation. For model year 2026, it is the exterior that has been refreshed.

A new look for the 2026 model year

The aim was to bring it more in line with recent models such as the Corolla Cross and RAV4. Consequently, the grille now features a honeycomb pattern and the logo is positioned further forward on the bonnet. The ‘gills’ on the outer edges of the front end have been closed off to create a more modern look. The lower bumper, on the other hand, has been extended further upwards to emphasise its crossover character. Despite the fact that the headlights remain unchanged, the car has taken on a friendlier yet more confident look. The colour shown here, “Precious Bronze”, is also new and comes as standard with black accents.

In addition to the luxury version shown here, there is also a “GR-SPORT” version. This has a more technical look. It features a different front bumper and special side panels, making the car appear wider and more muscular. Unique 18-inch alloy wheels complete the look.

Space and functionality

When the Yaris Cross was launched in 2021, an electric car was still something of a novelty. It has since become the norm, which is why the Yaris Cross has been viewed in a different light during this renewed introduction. As this car does not have a battery in the floor, it sits lower. In addition, the Cross has a higher seating position than the standard Yaris, and these two factors combined result in a very different driving position compared to a similar electric car.

The space up front is good, with the generously sized seats making the Yaris Cross feel larger than it actually is. The space in the back seat varies from non-existent to reasonable, depending on how accommodating the driver and front passenger are. As the crossover is chosen for its extra functionality, the rear seats can be folded down in three separate sections, the boot floor can be adjusted in two sections, and the parcel shelf can be folded down. The model tested here even has an electrically operated tailgate. This can be operated not only via a button on the edge of the tailgate but also with a foot gesture beneath the rear bumper.

Equipment

The Yaris Cross’s exterior has been updated to better match Toyota’s latest models. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the equipment. However, the 2024 system has since received various updates. As a result, the combined audio, communication and navigation system still scores well above average.

One clearly visible difference is the parking aid. Whilst manoeuvring, a transparent overlay is projected onto the camera images, which helps the driver to orientate themselves in the situation. Speaking of safety: to deactivate the mandatory yet unwanted driver-assistance systems, the driver still has to use buttons on the steering wheel to scroll through a menu full of cryptic abbreviations on the display behind the steering wheel. This is awkward but, unfortunately, necessary at the start of every journey to avoid a nervous breakdown (just as with all modern cars fitted with these systems, which are mandatory under European Union regulations). A welcome development: to disable the most annoying feature – the speeding warning – all it takes is a tap on the traffic sign icon on the central display.

A nice, familiar hybrid driving experience

Many manufacturers now only offer compact crossovers with fully electric powertrains. These drive better and are cheaper to both buy and run. Yet Toyota’s sales figures show that a large group of buyers would rather pay more for tried-and-tested technology. The Yaris Cross is still powered by a hybrid powertrain consisting of a 1.5-litre petrol engine and a small electric motor. The latter assists in situations where fuel consumption would otherwise rise sharply, such as when accelerating or climbing hills. In town in particular, it is quite noticeable that the Yaris Cross starts on the electric motor, after which the petrol engine gives itself away with a distinct rumble as it takes over. In slow-moving traffic and traffic jams, the Yaris Cross offers almost the same smoothness as an electric car.

The Yaris Cross is not charged via a plug, but recovers energy during braking and coasting (as with any hybrid or electric car). Using radar, the car determines for itself how strongly it can brake using the motor. Bear in mind, therefore, that a hybrid can only effectively reduce fuel consumption in town. On the open road, there is less braking, less energy is recovered and the electric motor can therefore contribute less. Toyota’s (and other brands’) claim that this hybrid can run on electric power for 50% of the time therefore refers to time rather than distance.

Performance and fuel consumption

On country roads, the performance of the 130 hp / 185 Nm hybrid is more than adequate, as the electric motor always kicks in at exactly the right moment. Toyota now has several decades experience of building hybrids, and it shows. For this re-evaluation, the car was driven in town and on country roads through hilly countryside. This resulted in a test fuel consumption figure of 4.3 litres per 100 km.

Handling

The refresh for the 2026 model year has been clearly announced by Toyota, which is partly why the press were invited to take a new test drive. Furthermore, many models undergo quiet improvements in the meantime. This is noticeable in the chassis, which is once again just that little bit more refined than during a previous test drive. The Yaris Cross offers even better comfort than before on very poor road surfaces, without compromising stability at higher speeds.

For this occasion, we also took the GR-Sport for another test drive. This model features a sportier chassis set-up and more direct steering. However, this is only noticeable when driving briskly and dynamically. Those who do not drive in this manner would be better off using the price difference to opt for a more generously equipped model.

Conclusion

The Toyota Yaris Cross has been updated for the 2026 model year. At Toyota, models typically have a lifespan of around 8 to 9 years, so 5 years after the model’s launch, this update comes at exactly the right time. Although the changes are minor, the appearance is completely different and the model fits in better with the latest generation of Toyota.

Whilst the exterior may be up to date, technology hasn’t stood still. Most competitors are now electric cars, making them cheaper to buy and run than this Toyota. However, the sales figures prove that many people are happy to pay the premium for Toyota’s proven reliability and the associated low depreciation and favourable private-lease rates.

What’s more, this test drive proves once again that Toyota is the undisputed expert when it comes to hybrid engines. Other aspects have also been improved gradually – and sometimes quietly, step by step. Toyota thus strikes a clever balance between the new and the familiar, making the test drive in the Yaris Cross a delightfully familiar experience.