This is the Toyota Yaris Cross for the ASEAN region

Meet Toyota's newest vehicle in its lineup, the Yaris Cross. Yes, we did not stutter. PHOTO FROM TOYOTA

Yesterday, Toyota took to the stage in Indonesia to unveil its latest crossover to the world, the Yaris Cross.

The global TNGA-based Yaris Cross. PHOTO FROM TOYOTA

Hold on. Doesn’t Toyota already sell one?

It’s a valid question, but the difference is that this is the ASEAN-spec model meant for our corner of the world, and one of its biggest changes comes from the fact that it is underpinned by the Daihatsu New Global Architecture.

Confusing, isn't it? PHOTO FROM TOYOTA

To be specific, it is underpinned by the DNGA-B platform, which can be found on the likes of the new Vios, the Avanza, and the Veloz. It measures 4,310mm long, 1,770mm wide, and 1,615mm tall (with a ground clearance of 260mm), slotting it in between the Raize and the Corolla Cross.

Yes, that is a proper hybrid drivetrain under the bonnet. PHOTO FROM TOYOTA

One of the biggest selling points of this vehicle is that it will be a hybrid vehicle, sporting the all-new 2NR-VEX, a 1.5-liter four-banger with 90hp and 121Nm. The electric motor punches out 79hp (59kW) and 141Nm, and is mated to a lithium-ion battery (of unspecified capacity), making it a true hybrid unlike the masses of mild-hybrid crossovers.

It will also be available with a conventional petrol-burning 1.5-liter, naturally aspirated 2NR-VE with 105hp and 138Nm, mated either to a CVT or a five-speed manual.

This looks nothing like its DNGA siblings, which is a great thing. PHOTOS FROM TOYOTA

Compared to the friendlier, rounded-off global Yaris Cross, this adopts an edgier, angular look that’s reminiscent of the Grand Highlander with a hint of Lexus at the back.

It will be available in a multitude of color schemes: Super White 2, Silver Metallic, Greenish Gunmetal, Altitude Black Mica, Dark Red, Platinum Pearl White Premium, and Scarlet Premium. A two-tone finish is also available, with the Silver Metallic, Scarlet Premium, and Platinum Pearl White Premium hues available with the option of an Altitude Black Mica roof.

But the interior heavily resembles other DNGA vehicles. PHOTOS FROM TOYOTA

It also comes with a healthy list of amenities, like a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, a 10.1-inch infotainment with wireless smartphone integration and wireless phone charging, a power tailgate, and Toyota Safety Sense.

Would you get this over a Corolla Cross if it launched on our shores? PHOTOS FROM TOYOTA

More information such as pricing and other details will be revealed eventually for the Indonesian market. Given that much of Toyota Motor Philippines’ affordable lineup is moving to the DNGA platform, seeing this new crossover make its way to our shores is a possibility. This is one crossover that’s worth keeping an eye on, especially in its hybrid form that should prove to be a formidable competitor against the likes of the Nissan Kicks e-Power.