Insider: Toyota Yaris Cross could arrive in PH Q1 2023

We might see Toyota PH reveal all-new Yaris Cross in February or March 2023

2022 may be coming to a close, but we have already received good information that Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is getting to launch another crossover next year.

According to an insider, TMP will be bringing the Yaris Cross to the country either in February or March of 2023. That's right, the stylish crossover first revealed in 2020 will supposedly be arriving next year.

Initial details about the upcoming crossover are not yet available. However, according to insider information, there will be a total of two variants available; a 1.5L Hybrid and a 1.5L Petrol (non-hybrid) version. Looking at what international markets get, it seems the PH-spec Yaris Cross will come with two engine options.

First is the non-hybrid 1.5-liter three-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine. It makes 120 PS with 145 Nm of torque and can be mated to either a 6-speed manual or CVT. The other option is the hybrid version of the 1.5-liter three-cylinder, which makes a total system output of 116 PS. Despite producing less power, it does benefit from an electric motor which helps with acceleration while also producing fewer emissions. But unlike the non-hybrid 1.5L which can come with a manual gearbox, this one is exclusively mated to a CVT.

Other specifications about the all-new Yaris Cross have yet to be revealed. But we can expect the crossover to come with other high-tech features like Toyota Safety Sense, a touchscreen infotainment system complete with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, LED ambient lighting, and automatic climate control.

Originally, we reported that Toyota dealers in the country had started to order units of the Yaris Cross as early as last year. Unfortunately, it seems TMP made some changes in their plans in 2021 which may have resulted in the delay of the Yaris Cross arriving in the country.

With the Corolla Cross set to be accompanied by the Yaris Cross soon, it will be interesting how Toyota will price its new crossover once it officially debuts in the country. Unlike the Corolla Cross which is made in Thailand, the Yaris Cross will not benefit from AFTA as it is made in Toyota's Iwate plant in Japan.

Given that both vehicles are somehow similar in size, we're also curious how Toyota will market the Yaris Cross to buyers.