Toyota Yaris crossover to arrive later this year, will rival the Nissan Juke

MANILA: Here we are again with a story concerning another crossover. It is not as if there are only a few SUVs and crossovers in the automobile space, however, the automakers are leaving no stone unturned to roll out as many SUVs and crossovers as possible and clinch on to a bigger market share than their counterparts.

So much so that many of the auto giants are rolling out SUVs and crossovers in pretty much every segment. Heck, some even have two in a single segment. Now, with the 2020 Nissan Juke, Ford Puma, and the 2020 Renault Captur out in the flesh, the time is just right for Toyota to jump in and roll dice.

But, Toyota doesn't really have a direct rival to compete with the likes of the Juke, Puma, and others. Anyway, that is going to be history soon enough as the Japanese automaker prepares to bring out a crossover version of its much popular hatchback Yaris. "SUV segments, in general, are all continuing to grow.

Toyota C-HR is playing at the very top end of what could almost be a sort of coupé-crossover C-segment SUV. It doesn’t really compete with other products like Qashqai or more practical offerings", said Toyota’s European Executive Vice-President Matt Harrison while speaking to Auto Express.

The upcoming Yaris based crossover will be underpinned by the TNGA-B platform, which will also allow the automaker to fit in an electrified powertrain. Moreover, the crossover will be slightly longer and about 40 mm taller than the Yaris hatchback. Also, we might witness a larger wheelbase than the smaller hatchback model for more room inside for the passengers. Expect Toyota to equip the Yaris crossover with its 1.5-litre hybrid powertrain that makes 115 hp and the also the plain 1.5-litre petrol-only setup. Transmission options should include both a manual stick and a hassle-free CVT.

Just like any other Toyota car, the Yaris crossover will also come sporting ample safety & security features alongside an array of creature comforts. The Yaris crossover is expected to be unveiled by the end of 2020, and the sales in the UK will probably begin by mid-2021.

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