2022 Toyota Yaris Cross
The 2022 Toyota Yaris Cross is a subcompact crossover SUV designed for urban driving with added versatility and a dash of SUV ruggedness. Based on the same platform as the Yaris hatchback, the Yaris Cross offers the advantages of a higher driving position, increased interior space, and optional all-wheel drive (AWD). Here's a detailed look at its specs and a comprehensive review:
2022 Toyota Yaris Cross Key Specifications
Engine and Performance
Petrol…
2022 Toyota Yaris Cross
The 2022 Toyota Yaris Cross is a subcompact crossover SUV designed for urban driving with added versatility and a dash of SUV ruggedness. Based on the same platform as the Yaris hatchback, the Yaris Cross offers the advantages of a higher driving position, increased interior space, and optional all-wheel drive (AWD). Here’s a detailed look at its specs and a comprehensive review:
2022 Toyota Yaris Cross Key Specifications
Engine and Performance
Petrol Engine:
- Engine Type: 1.5-liter 3-cylinder naturally aspirated
- Engine Power: 120 hp (88 kW) at 6600 rpm
- Torque: 145 Nm at 4800-5200 rpm
- Transmission:
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Available with a 6-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD-i): Available with CVT automatic
- Fuel Economy:
- FWD: ~5.4-6.0 L/100 km (WLTP)
- AWD: ~5.7-6.2 L/100 km (WLTP)
- Acceleration (0-100 km/h): ~10.5 seconds for FWD and slightly slower for AWD
Hybrid Engine:
- Hybrid System: 1.5-liter 3-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor
- Engine Power: 91 hp (67 kW) from the petrol engine + 80 hp from the electric motor (combined power ~116 hp)
- Torque: 120 Nm from the petrol engine + 141 Nm from the electric motor
- Transmission: e-CVT automatic transmission
- Fuel Economy:
- FWD Hybrid: 4.0-4.4 L/100 km (WLTP)
- AWD-i Hybrid: 4.6-5.0 L/100 km (WLTP)
- Acceleration (0-100 km/h): ~11.2 seconds for the hybrid
Dimensions
- Length: 4,180 mm (164.5 inches)
- Width: 1,765 mm (69.5 inches)
- Height: 1,560 mm (61.4 inches)
- Wheelbase: 2,560 mm (100.8 inches)
- Ground Clearance: 170 mm (6.7 inches)
- Curb Weight:
- Petrol: ~1,170-1,250 kg
- Hybrid: ~1,250-1,350 kg
Interior and Comfort
- Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
- Upholstery: Fabric (standard), leather (available on higher trims)
- Infotainment:
- 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen display with:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Bluetooth, USB, and AUX input
- Optional JBL 8-speaker sound system
- Climate Control: Automatic climate control (available as single or dual-zone)
- Cargo Space:
- 390 liters (rear seats up)
- ~1,097 liters (rear seats down)
Safety Features
- Toyota Safety Sense (standard across the range):
- Pre-Collision System with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Lane Departure Alert with steering assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Automatic High Beam
- Road Sign Assist
- Emergency Steering Assist
- Airbags: Front, side, curtain, and driver’s knee airbags
- Parking Aids:
- Rear parking sensors (standard on higher trims)
- Rearview camera (standard)
- Optional 360-degree camera
- Additional Features:
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
2022 Toyota Yaris Cross Review
Pros:
- Stylish Design: The Yaris Cross has a bold, modern design with muscular wheel arches, a raised ride height, and sporty accents. It’s compact yet rugged, making it look more SUV-like compared to other subcompact crossovers.
- Fuel Efficiency: The hybrid variant shines in terms of fuel economy, offering impressive efficiency for both city and highway driving, making it a strong contender in the eco-friendly subcompact SUV segment.
- Advanced Safety Features: Toyota Safety Sense is a major plus. Even the base models come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety systems, which sets it apart from some of its competitors.
- Good Urban Performance: Compact size, light steering, and a relatively tight turning radius make the Yaris Cross a joy to maneuver in city traffic or tight parking spaces.
- Optional AWD: While many crossovers in this class are FWD-only, the Yaris Cross offers an AWD option (AWD-i). This system is especially useful for those living in regions with snow or rough weather conditions, adding to the car’s versatility.
Cons:
- Performance Could Be Better: While adequate for city driving, both the petrol and hybrid engines may feel underpowered when accelerating on highways or overtaking, especially with a full load.
- Rear Space Is Limited: Rear legroom might feel cramped for taller passengers, especially for long journeys. While the Yaris Cross has decent cargo space, its rear-seat comfort could be improved.
- Interior Materials: While the interior is well laid out, the use of hard plastics in some areas might detract from the overall feeling of premium quality, especially compared to some rivals in the segment.
- Infotainment System: The infotainment interface can feel a bit outdated and less intuitive compared to the systems used by some competitors. While it supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the native interface lacks the sophistication found in more modern setups.
Driving Experience
The Yaris Cross handles city driving exceptionally well. Its compact size and nimble handling allow for easy navigation in congested urban environments. The hybrid system is smooth and delivers great fuel economy, while the petrol variant provides a slightly more responsive, traditional driving experience. The AWD system is suitable for mild off-roading or slippery conditions but isn’t intended for serious off-road driving.
On highways, the Yaris Cross remains composed but lacks the punch that larger SUVs with more powerful engines can offer. However, its suspension handles bumps and rough surfaces well, and the cabin is relatively quiet.
Interior and Technology
The interior is practical and functional, with a focus on usability. The higher trims offer more luxurious touches, including leather upholstery and ambient lighting, while the entry-level versions are simple yet effective. The digital instrument cluster and heads-up display (available on some trims) add to the high-tech feel. Rear cargo space is competitive, and the rear seats fold down easily to accommodate larger items.
Competitors
- Honda HR-V: A major competitor with a similar size and price point. The HR-V offers more rear-seat space but lacks a hybrid option in some markets.
- Mazda CX-3: Offers a more engaging driving experience and a slightly more premium interior, but the Yaris Cross outshines in fuel economy and safety tech.
- Hyundai Kona: Similar in size, the Kona offers a more powerful turbocharged engine option, but the Yaris Cross edges ahead in fuel efficiency and hybrid technology.
Verdict
The 2022 Toyota Yaris Cross is a versatile and efficient subcompact crossover that excels in urban environments. Its stylish design, excellent fuel efficiency (especially with the hybrid), and impressive suite of safety features make it a top choice for city dwellers. While performance isn’t exhilarating, and rear space could be more generous, it checks many boxes for those seeking practicality, comfort, and a trusted brand name.
For those looking for a reliable, safe, and fuel-efficient crossover with the flexibility of AWD, the Yaris Cross offers a compelling package.