Toyota Yaris Cross 2023: small SUV gains hybrid-powered GR Sport grade

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Toyota Australia has confirmed the Yaris Cross will be its latest vehicle to score a GR Sport option, with an expected on-sale date in December this year.

Joining the existing GX, GXL and Urban grades, the GR Sport will feature a more dynamic suspension tune and a more aggressive outer appearance to match.

Toyota will offer the GR Sport exclusively with a front-wheel-drive hybrid option, which makes use of a 67kW/120Nm 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine combined with a pair of electric motors that produce a total system output of 85kW.

While those outputs are identical to the regular Yaris Cross, the GR Sport badge is typically associated with appearance and light performance upgrades, rather than the full-fat GR models such as the GR Yaris and Corolla hot hatches.

Toyota currently offers the C-HR small SUV and Land Cruiser 300 Series large SUV with a flagship GR Sport grade in Australia, with the Hilux ute and now the Yaris Cross set to follow suit.

Interior and exterior changes

The most distinctive change to the Yaris Cross is the addition of 18-inch wheels in a unique twin-spoke design matched with a distinctive mesh grille, darkened rear diffuser and two-tone paint job.

Designers have also swapped out the front seats for a sportier set covered in a combination of synthetic leather and suede material.

Other design additions include exterior GR Sport badges as well as GR-branded aluminium pedals, headrests, steering wheel and driver’s key.

As per the regular Yaris Cross, the GR Sport will feature a 7.0-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

GR Sport to offer sharper dynamics

While a proper verdict will have to wait for a full review, Toyota has stated its new variant will provide improved steering feel, sharper handling and less body roll due to its revised suspension tune.

These comments are encouraging as the regular Yaris Cross has already been praised by several outlets – including Chasing Cars after a four-month long-term review – for its fun driving dynamics.

A full list of features and official pricing will be released closer to the Australian on-sale date of the Yaris Cross in December 2022.

Toyota Yaris Cross 2022: prices in Australia

All prices listed are before on-road costs.

• GX petrol: $26,990
• GX hybrid: $29,990
• GX hybrid AWD: $31,990
• GXL petrol: $29,990
• GXL hybrid: $31,990
• GXL hybrid AWD: $34,990
• Urban petrol: $33,440
• Urban hybrid: $35,440
• Urban hybrid AWD: $37,990
• GR Sport: TBC