The latest Toyota Yaris was officially launched in Thailand on August 9, 2022. As a B-Segment sedan made primarily for the emerging market, it was built on the DNGA Platform. (Daihatsu New Global Architecture), which has been developed to be flexible enough to be applied to other small or sub-compact cars such as crossovers, in addition to sedans & hatchbacks.
In addition to the new Yaris Ativ/ Vios other Toyota cars including Raize, Agya, Avanza, and Veloz are also built on the DNGA platform. Now Toyota is all set to expand the lineup of sub-compact cars with another DNGA platform model— the new Toyota Yaris Cross. This will be different from the TNGA-based Yaris Cross which debuted in 2020 and is available in the Japanese domestic and European markets.
Related: Toyota to Launch Yaris Ativ Hybrid in Thailand
The new DNGA-based Yaris Cross will be making its debut in Indonesia as Toyota Indonesia has already invited the automotive media in the country to attend the unveiling of the mystery car model on May 15, 2023, with the message “World Premiere of Toyota’s New Urban Cruiser Icon”. Although Toyota already sells a crossover named Urban Cruiser in India, it’s actually based on a Suzuki and is restricted to the Indian market.
Although Toyota is tight-lipped about the new crossover, Autonetmagz has reported that the DNGA-based Yaris Cross will have a completely different appearance than the TNGA-based Yaris Cross.
Under the hood, there will be two choices for the powerplant. There will be a 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine as well as a 1.5L hybrid (e-Smart) with manual & CVT gearbox options sending power to two or all wheels depending on the variant. As per information, the front suspension system will continue to be an independent MacPherson Strut while there will be a semi-independent Torsion Beam at the rear.
The DNGA-based Yaris Cross is expected to share some parts with the new Yaris Ativ but adjusted to suit the model to give a more crossover-like feel in terms of driving and handling. More details will be available by 15th May, stay tuned to CarSpiritPK for more information.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com