Hi, looking to get a new car. Going for test drive for Yaris Cross
A. Any Yaris Cross owners? Which model you suggest as they have 6 options. Typically, you only have 1-2 to choose from nowadays.
B. What other cars to consider as alternative in that compact SUV range? Ideally under $35,000
@Techefy: less to go wrong in an EV.
BYD aren't a bit player. They've made millions of cars and have been making top quality batteries for years.
Thanks. Yeah that was second on the list.
+1 for Corolla Hybrid.
Nobody has mentioned the Mitsubishi ASX?
Because they are garbage. The are a renault in disguise.
What?!
They've sold many over the years, have a 10 year warranty, come in 2.0 or 2.4L variants.
I wasn't specifically talking about the 2025 version. The 2024 etc are Japanese.
Also I guess its now discontinued in Australia due to some security or compliance issues.
Doesnt have the latest safety tech. Theyll probably bring it back when there is a new model.
Suzuki Jimny!
Hyundai Inster!
Because of one the 11 Principles of Toyota Way- "Use only reliable, thoroughly tested technology that serves your people and processes." https://www.leaneast.com/toyota-way
Honda Hr-v hybrid. Only downside is its a 4 seater in Australia. But imo interior quality and design craps on Toyota. And still a reliable brand.
I own a Civic Hybrid, and I've driven a Corolla and Camry hybrid (hire cars, so not just a 5min test drive), the Honda's hybrid system might be just a touch behind on pure efficiency, but imo its significantly smoother and more punchy. It's a much more enjoyable drive.
or the older gen CR-V, run out models within 2 years old are cheap. nothing sexy about them but they are reliable as any old Toyota and a heap of space
What's with Honda and 4 seats?
Civic Type R also only comes with 4 seats.
Oh I didn't know the Type R was only 4 too.
The HR-V is an Australian safety standard thing. Overseas they're 5 seaters but there's no top tether for the HRV which is the requirement in Australia to give it it's own seat/safety rating whatevr.
Could Honda have added a simple tether to make it compliant? Probably. Is the back of the Hr-v big enough anyway that you'd wanna fit 3 there…? Probably not unless they're kids. ZR-V covers the 5 seater requirements I guess. And CRV for 5-7.
You wouldn't want to sit 5 people regularly in the HRV or Civic Type R, but it's good for emergency.
Same as most 7 seater SUVs, the 6 & 7th seats are emergency only.
If you need to drive 6 or 7 people regularly, get a Kia Carnival.
"I own a Civic Hybrid, and I've driven a Corolla and Camry hybrid (hire cars, so not just a 5min test drive), the Honda's hybrid system might be just a touch behind on pure efficiency, but imo its significantly smoother and more punchy. It's a much more enjoyable drive."
Well said. I find similar experience (Lexus UX, which is pretty much the same hybrid system).
BUT! There were a few reports of hybrid battery error (we haven't seen it in ours) on the civic for less frequently driven vehicle. Honda service centre has been advising a long drive to cycle the battery a few times to resolve it.
Oh really? I've not read up on it.
What defines a long drive cycle? I frequently collect my partner from work that follows 50-70km/h roads and about 20-25mins one way and then back.
I assume the issue more lies with like… The 5 min school drop off runs being the only use for the car kinda thing?
I also randomly throw it into sport, which I've noticed keeps the battery at 70%+ always, rather than the 30% threshold for normal and eco. Wonder if that's better or worse though for it..
I wouldnt know, not worried about it.
But seems rare and literally those that don't drive their car more than a few times a month.
We have had no issue with ours with daily commute anywhere from 10-30 mins.
Personally prefers the Honda hybrid system over the Toyota one if I must choose.
Have a Yaris Cross and it's great. I personally prefer a sedan or something with a lower centre of gravity but wifey wins. The Yaris is great for running around in. Don't expect a speed demon it's pretty slow. I'd highly recommend the hybrid but i'd then get the GX 2WD. The only features that are nicer in the higher spec ones are the electric boot, heated seats and sunroofs. I personally can live without those things. The engine is the same across all of them. The AWD is nice to have but not worth the extra in my opinion. I never would think to take mine offroad and the 2wd saves a bit of fuel. Just my opinion
Thanks
Yaris?
Get a GR Yaris and have some driving fun.
Haval is the best
Suzuki vitara Turbo or S-Cross?
Any reason why a small SUV? Especially the Yaris Cross? I had one for a few days and boy i was glad to give it back, it's got the cheapness of the Yaris, but then bad handling from a lifted SUV.. .
The Corolla is a much nicer car, roomy and better dynamics.
Also would look at the Hyundai i30, sedan seems to be slightly cheaper than the hatch, was is the Elantra in other countries. or if you are looking at the top end of the Yarris Cross, look at the i20n for similar prices! can get something super fun to drive!
But huge difference in reliability?