Toyota has today released the all-wheel-drive Yaris Cross SUV, the first to feature the company’s latest 1.5L hybrid system.
Toyota’s fourth generation hybrid technology features a new 1.5-litre, three-cylinder Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with a 59kW electric drive motor, combining for a total power output of 85kW.
The system operates with a thermal efficiency of 40% producing a maximum power output of 114bhp. CO2 emissions start from below 120g/km for the front-wheel drive model with the AWD-i version from below 135g/km (WLTP provisional data, subject to homologation).
The all electric AWD-i system directs drive torque to the rear axle when accelerating, while in normal driving conditions the Yaris Cross operates with front-wheel drive. When low-grip conditions are detected, all-wheel drive is engaged automatically.
The engine and powertrain have been mounted on the new GA-B platform resulting with the Yaris Cross having the same 2,560mm wheelbase as the Yaris hatchback, to be released this summer, but is 240mm longer overall, with 60mm added to the front overhang and 180mm to the rear. Ground clearance is 30mm higher and the vehicle is taller and wider overall – by 90 and 20mm respectively.
