
There are rivals that are more affordable, while some are a little more fun to drive. Ultimately, the Toyota Yaris Cross is almost perfectly judged. The rear's a bit claustrophobic, but you'd probably be better looking for a bigger SUV anyway if you regularly carry people in the back. It's a comfortable choice – or at least, it is for front-seat passengers. You sit higher up than in a Skoda Kamiq, so you feel noticeably off-the-ground compared to a standard Toyota Yaris. It's functional, though, with everything laid out neatly and a choice of two very good infotainment displays (depending on trim level). While the exterior of the Yaris Cross is just as stylish as the most attractive of rivals (we're looking at the Peugeot 2008 and Volkswagen T-Roc here), its interior isn't quite so fancy. The latter two are available with four-wheel drive not necessarily something we'd recommend unless you live somewhere particularly remote. Higher-spec models include the Excel, Dynamic and – for a limited time – the Premiere Edition. This retails from around £24,000 and brings with it 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, interior ambient lighting and rear privacy glass. Prices start from around £22,500 for the entry-level Toyota Yaris Cross Icon, but most buyers are expected to stretch to the Yaris Cross Design. Rivals are more suited to motorway driving, though, and the Yaris Cross's harsh suspension means we'd suggest treading carefully when the salesperson suggests one of the higher-spec trim levels.

It's easy and fun to drive, with the hybrid setup providing whizzy acceleration around town. Officially, you should be able to see up to 64.2mpg from the Yaris Cross, which might be impressive enough to make you think twice about electric alternatives like the Hyundai Kona Electric.

It combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, resulting in impressive around-town refinement and incredible fuel economy. It's the Toyota Yaris Cross's hybrid power which sets it apart from rivals.
