2023 Toyota Yaris Cross GR Sport: Quick Review

The Toyota Yaris Cross arrived in Australia in 2020 as the trend towards SUVs continues to grow. The past few years has created an opportunity for manufacturers to introduce high-ride versions of much loved small classics, such as the Yaris.

A few years after the launch, the range expanded to add the GR Sport version of this popular passenger vehicle.

The GR Sport lineup is positioned beneath the high-performance GR models and places greater emphasis on suspension and visual distinctions, as opposed to alterations in engine performance and drivetrain.

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The added comfort of an SUV comes from a higher view point on the road, and ease of entry and exit. You're also often getting an increased cargo capacity, legroom and headroom.

The light and small SUV segments are some of the fastest growing in Australia right now, and Toyota aren't the only brand to jump on the bandwagon.

So let's find out what you'll pick up in the current-generation Yaris Cross GR Sport.

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Pricing and features

The Yaris Cross GR Sport sits at the top of the line-up, priced at $36,000 before on road-costs.

In a single hybrid powertrain, the 1.5-litre engine produces a combined 85kw and 120Nm and can get as low at 3.8L/100km for fuel economy. Buyers only have the choice of a front-wheel drive.

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Based on the mid-range Yaris Cross GXL FWD hybrid, this variant sits at an $850 premium over the top-tier Urban FWD hybrid.

Features carried over from the GXL include keyless entry and start, a leather-wrapped wheel with paddle shifters, a 7-inch touchscreen, LED headlight, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite navigation, auto-folding mirrors and rear privacy glass.

The GR Sport adds unique 18-inch alloy wheels, a suspension that's been lowered by 10mm and fine-tuned, GR Sport badging both inside and outside the vehicle, a distinctive front grille featuring a mesh design and black side mirrors.

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Further additions include red brake calipers, synthetic leather and suede black upholstery, aluminum pedals, and underfloor bracing.

If you're after additional creature comforts like a power driver seat, heated front seats, a head-up display and power tailgate, you'll want the Urban variant– which is actually the exact same price.

It's up to you if you can look past the questionable brown leather trim in the Urban.

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Safety

A five-star score was awarded to the Toyota Yaris Cross with testing conducted in 2021.

The light SUV scored an 86% score for both adult and child occupant protection.

Toyota Safety Sense suite of features is available across the range, which includes active cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, intersection turn assist, lane keep assist, lane-departure warning and fatigue reminders.

Buyers also pick up 8 airbags, a reversing camera, front and rear sensors, rear cross traffic alert, a panoramic view monitor and blind spot monitors.

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Key rivals

There is no shortage of light SUVs available in Australia, such as:

• Mazda CX-3
• Kia Stonic
• Hyundai Venue
• Ford Puma

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Should I put it on my shortlist?

The Yaris Cross is a highly competitive option for someone looking for a small city runabout thanks to its stellar fuel economy and compact proportions.

If you're after a small car with some sporty pizzazz, this SUV could be just what you're after. But it really depends on what you value.

At the same price, the Urban hybrid FWD offers arguably more value to city drivers. But ultimately it feels like there isn't a wrong choice when it comes to the Cross line-up.

If you're looking for an SUV that's nimble, efficient, has a sporty design and backed by Toyota's leading quality, the Yaris Cross GR Sport is worth a look.