2026 Toyota Yaris Cross launching in Malaysia soon, HEV variant to Perodua Traz?

The Toyota Yaris Cross will be launched in Malaysia soon, as teased by UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) through its social media pages. The B-segment SUV made its global debut in Indonesia in May 2023. For context, this Toyota Yaris Cross is an ASEAN-specific model that differs from the European version; the Perodua Traz served as its unofficial introduction to Malaysians.

Similar to its Perodua counterpart, the Toyota Yaris Cross measures 4,310 mm in length, 1,770 mm in width, and has a wheelbase of 2,525 mm. It is also built on the Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA). However, the Toyota Yaris Cross has a lower overall height of 1,615 mm compared to the Perodua Traz, which stands at 1,655 mm.

Looking at the Indonesian and Thai markets, the Toyota Yaris Cross is equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense suite of ADAS features, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which the Perodua Traz does not offer. Most likely, the Toyota Yaris Cross will be positioned as the more upmarket variant, similar to how the Toyota Veloz and Perodua Alza are differentiated.

Moving on to the powertrain, there is no official confirmation yet on what the Malaysian-spec Toyota Yaris Cross will receive. The Perodua Traz is powered by the proven 2NR-VE 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine, producing 106 PS and 138 Nm of torque, paired with a Dual-Mode CVT that drives the front wheels.

In Indonesia, the Toyota Yaris Cross uses the same powertrain, although a 5-speed manual transmission option is also available. Additionally, there is a hybrid variant powered by the 2NR-VEX 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine operating on the Atkinson cycle. This engine is paired with a CVT and supplemented by an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 111 PS. In Thailand, the Toyota Yaris Cross is offered exclusively as a hybrid. Will the Malaysian market receive a hybrid variant as well? More news is expected soon.