Juniper
Opening Speech by Encik Faraed Mohd Sharif, Executive Director of UMW Toyota Motor
As crossover and SUV models continue to see strong and growing demand in Malaysia, UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) today launched the all-new Toyota Yaris Cross, strengthening its presence in one of the market’s fastest growing segments. Available in both Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and Hybrid
Electric Vehicle (HEV) variants, the Yaris Cross expands Toyota’s electrification offering in Malaysia, serving as a practical and accessible entry point into hybrid mobility while completing its B-SUV line-up with an electrified option, bringing together advanced safety technologies and SUV versatility in a compact SUV designed for modern urban lifestyles.
The Yaris Cross enters one of the most competitive categories in the Malaysian market, where demand continues to grow as drivers seek vehicles that combine everyday usability with elevated driving confidence. The model is offered from RM99,900.00 for the ICE variant and RM109,900.00 for the HEV variant, reflecting Toyota’s Multi-Pathway approach to mobility by offering customers a choice of powertrains that suit different needs and driving conditions, positioning it as a compelling upgrade for those seeking a more refined and technologically advanced B-SUV experience.
“The B-SUV segment continues to gain momentum as more Malaysians look for vehicles that can support their daily needs with greater flexibility and confidence,” said Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor. “With the Yaris Cross, we are expanding our hybrid offering with a solution that is practical and reliable, backed by the trust and dependability that Toyota delivers. Our approach has always been to introduce technologies that are relevant to how Malaysians drive today, and hybrid continues to offer a clear and accessible pathway towards electrification. The Yaris Cross brings this together in a way that is easy to adopt, while delivering the efficiency and usability that support everyday driving with confidence, giving customers the freedom to choose what works best for them, Your Path, Your Way.”
The introduction of the Yaris Cross expands Toyota’s SUV portfolio in Malaysia and reinforces the company’s strategy of offering multiple mobility pathways, allowing customers to choose solutions that best match their driving patterns, infrastructure readiness, and lifestyle needs, while continuing to deliver vehicles that balance performance, efficiency, and everyday usability for Malaysian drivers.
Bold SUV Design with Practical Urban Dimensions The Yaris Cross features a bold exterior design characterised by strong body proportions, short overhangs and large-diameter wheels positioned at the corners of the vehicle, giving it a confident SUV stance while maintaining compact dimensions suited for urban environments. Distinctive rear combination lamps extend to the edges of the body to emphasise width, while 18-inch machined alloy wheels reinforce its sporty and dynamic character.
Inside, the cabin combines modern styling with practical functionality. Soft-touch surfaces, satin-plated cockpit accents and a leather-wrapped steering wheel create a refined environment, complemented by a distinctive Blue Black interior theme with blue accent stitching. The driver-focused cockpit is anchored by a 7-inch TFT digital meter display, allowing drivers to customise information layouts according to their preference.
Designed for Everyday Practicality
Despite its compact footprint, the Yaris Cross offers strong practicality for daily commuting as well as weekend travel. The luggage compartment provides 471 litres of cargo capacity, supported by a versatile two-level deck board and underfloor storage space that allow owners to organise cargo more efficiently. A higher driver eye point also provides improved visibility of surrounding traffic and road conditions, contributing to greater driving confidence.
Convenience features further enhance everyday usability. A 10.1-inch display audio system with wireless smartphone connectivity integrates seamlessly with modern mobile lifestyles, while a Panoramic View Monitor assists drivers when manoeuvring in tight spaces. Additional features such as a power back door with kick sensor, wireless charging and rear USB-C ports ensure a comfortable and connected experience for both driver and passengers.
Multiple Powertrain Options to Suit Different Needs
The Yaris Cross is offered with two powertrain options to suit different driving preferences, reflecting Toyota’s approach of providing practical electrification solutions alongside conventional powertrains to meet diverse customer needs. The ICE variant is powered by Toyota’s proven 2NR-VE engine paired with a CVT transmission, delivering smooth and efficient performance suitable for everyday driving while maintaining low ownership costs.
For customers seeking greater efficiency, the hybrid variant features Toyota’s Hybrid Electric System, combining the 2NR-VEX engine with an electric motor to deliver a total system output of 111 PS. The system allows the vehicle to operate in electric mode during low-speed driving conditions, helping reduce fuel consumption and emissions while providing quieter operation in urban environments. The lithium-ion battery is positioned beneath the rear seats, helping maintain luggage space while contributing to balanced weight distribution.
Advanced Safety with Toyota Safety Sense
Safety remains a central priority in the development of the Yaris Cross. The model is equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), designed to enhance driver awareness and support safer driving. These systems assist drivers in monitoring traffic ahead, maintaining lane position and improving visibility during night driving, while additional features such as Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert enhance situational awareness.
Beyond the vehicle itself, UMWT continues to support customers through its Best in Town ownership experience, guided by Toyota’s commitment to Quality, Durability and Reliability (QDR). With a network of more than 100 service centres nationwide, Toyota owners across Malaysia benefit from trusted aftersales support, accessible servicing and long-term peace of mind throughout their ownership journey.
The all-new Toyota Yaris Cross will be locally assembled at Toyota’s manufacturing facility in Bukit Raja, reflecting continued investment in local capabilities while ensuring the model is introduced at a time that aligns with market demand and customer readiness in Malaysia.
Both the ICE and HEV variants are now available for booking at authorised Toyota dealerships nationwide. Customers can learn more about the all-new Toyota Yaris Cross by visiting www.toyota.com.my or their nearest Toyota showroom.
