Toyota Yaris Cross review - Interior & comfort

To ensure it handles securely, the Yaris Cross has slightly firm suspension, but it’s not likely to crash into bumps or upset passengers too frequently. That’s unless you go for the new 18-inch alloy wheel design which is exclusive to GR Sport, because they spoil the ride somewhat. Refinement is also good for a small car, especially when the petrol engine isn’t needed. It engages smoothly in hybrid mode, and only gets noticeably louder if you accelerate very hard, unlike older CVT models.

Toyota Yaris Cross dashboard

Like the vast majority of Toyota models, the interior primarily feels functional and tough, so the dashboard design of rivals like the Peugeot 2008 is more appealing. There’s also lots of black trim, so we found it darker inside the Yaris Cross than the Honda Jazz when we drove them back-to-back. It’s hard to argue with its simple layout, though, and it’s appreciable how easy its physical climate control knobs and switches are to use on the move. While the positioning of the central eight-inch infotainment touchscreen perched on the dashboard isn’t the most attractive, it’s closer to the driver for easier use, and it’s compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, opening up the use of familiar apps.

The Smart Connect system comes with compatibility with the MyT smartphone app that can keep its content up to date and allow users to remotely access their car, too. The system itself has a cleaner interface than the Honda’s, so it’s easier to navigate. Like the Jazz there are physical shortcut buttons, this time running down the left side of the screen, although the audio volume buttons aren’t quite as intuitive to use as the Honda’s simple rotary knob. Wireless smartphone connectivity is offered, while physical climate controls are a welcome inclusion.

Equipment

The trim levels are Icon, Design, Excel and GR Sport. Two more trims known as Dynamic and Premiere Edition were previously offered but have now been discontinued. Entry-level Icon is still reasonably desirable, with 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic lights, keyless entry and a rear-view camera. An eight-inch infotainment screen also comes as standard.

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Design comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, a seven-inch digital gauge cluster, LED exterior lighting, privacy glass and a black roof lining.

Step up to Excel, and 18-inch alloys are fitted along with folding door mirrors and a powered tailgate. Inside, there's a nine-inch infotainment display, part-synthetic leather seats, grey roof lining, dual-zone climate control and extra safety features.

The flagship GR Sport boasts styling inspired by Toyota’s GR performance sub-brand and builds on the list of equipment you’ll find on the Excel. Highlights include 18-inch five-double-spoke machined alloy wheels, a bi-tone paint finish, metallic paint, an eight-speaker JBL premium sound system, GR Sport styling pack, push-button start, GR Sport interior upgrades and sports suspension.

Options

There's a number of optional packs available for the Yaris Cross, along with dealer-fit accessories. The Tech Pack for Design trim adds the nine-inch infotainment set-up, while a City and Advanced Safety Pack for Dynamic and Premiere Edition brings a 360-degree camera view, all-round parking sensors and safety equipment to help avoid a collision while driving or parking. The GR Sport is available with the option of a ‘Scorched Orange’ paint finish, exclusive to the trim level.

Families may also want to consider solutions like the SUV Pack, adding rear seat protection, a boot liner, rubber floor mats, mud flaps and side steps, which can also be specified individually. A towing pack is also available with a detachable towing hitch and 13-pin electrics.