Toyota Yaris Cross SUV - Practicality & boot space

​While there's a lot to love about the Yaris Cross, it isn't one of the most spacious cars in its class, just like the Yaris supermini it's based on. It won't be a deal-breaker for lots of people, but a side-effect of the batteries is some reduced passenger and luggage space.

Toyota Yaris Cross interior space & storage

The hybrid battery pack is situated under the rear seats, and while the raised roofline means headroom isn't too bad for back seat passengers, legroom is a bit tight for taller adults. It's likely to be fine for shorter trips, but rivals like the Renault Captur and Skoda Kamiq offer more space and a few competitors even have a sliding rear bench. 

Space up front is less of an issue, but the Yaris Cross still doesn't feel as roomy as the Skoda. Cubby spaces are on the small side, but there are quite a few dotted around the interior. It's also worth noting that you'll need Design trim or above for rear cup holders to be added. The Icon trim is also the only Cross without roof rails, which will put off anyone looking to mount their bicycles or fit a roof box.

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Boot space

The opening to the boot is nice and wide, and there's a 'kick-activated' powered tailgate from Excel trim, which is handy if you've got both hands full. However, there is a fairly high loading lip, and while 397 litres is a useful size, it's easily beaten. The Ford Puma - which is some way behind the class best - has a 456 litre boot, but the Hyundai Kona Hybrid can only manage 374 litres, while the Renault Captur E-Tech has 379 litres.

Towing

Toyota hasn't released towing figures for the Yaris Cross yet, but considering the Yaris supermini with an identical hybrid setup can only haul 450kg, we'd steer clear of this small SUV if you need to tow a trailer.