TOYOTA YARIS CROSS 1.5 SE HEV CVT

Subcompact crossovers have rapidly become the vehicle of choice for urban professionals and small families. Toyota's new Yaris Cross Hybrid is perfectly positioned in this competitive market, offering a stylish design, an incredibly fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain, and all the practicality needed for everyday life in the Philippines.

- REVIEWED BY BARRY ORTIZ

To truly test its mettle, I drove the Yaris Cross Hybrid on a weekend trip to Clark. This journey took us from the congested streets of Quezon City, through the long stretches of NLEX, and up the high-speed TPLEX, fully loaded with passengers and luggage, to see how it performs in diverse driving conditions.

DESIGN

The Yaris Cross Hybrid features a sleek yet tough exterior. Its sharp LED headlights, sculpted body panels, and black cladding give it a notably sporty and assertive stance. The optional two-tone finish—a black roof contrasting the main body color—adds a modern, youthful flair that makes it a standout in Manila’s traffic.

Inside, Toyota has prioritized a simple, modern aesthetic. The cabin feels contemporary, highlighted by the 7-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10-inch infotainment screen featuring seamless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Materials are a coherent mix of soft-touch and hard plastics. In terms of space, the second row offers acceptable comfort for two adults, though it’s best suited for shorter city trips. Crucially, the cargo bay is practical, handling a couple of suitcases and weekend bags with room to spare, a capacity that significantly expands when the rear seats are folded down.

HARDWARE