Head to head: Toyota Yaris Cross S vs Nissan Kicks VL

The Toyota Yaris Cross and Nissan Kicks are two popular choices in the compact crossover segment, each offering a blend of style, technology, and fuel efficiency. In this comparo, we will delve into the key aspects of both vehicles, including their exterior design, interior features, technology, safety, engine performance, and pricing, to determine which one offers the best overall package for potential buyers.

We are going for the top-of-the-line variants for both, with similar price points to keep things fair between the two vehicles.

The Toyota Yaris Cross impresses with its sporty and hip exterior design, featuring sharp and edgy lines that give it a distinct presence on the road. The blacked-out roof, bold grille, and rugged body cladding contribute to its eye-catching appearance. The taillights, inspired by the RAV4 model, add cohesiveness to Toyota's lineup. Overall, the Yaris Cross's design makes it appear larger than it actually is, enhancing its road presence. The departure from the iconic blue Toyota badge on hybrid models might disappoint some, but the overall design still manages to stand out.

On the other hand, the Nissan Kicks VL carries Nissan's signature design language, featuring V-motion-inspired design cues throughout. The front fascia boasts a V-motion grille design, complemented by sleek LED headlights. The black roofline and body cladding add a touch of modernity and ruggedness. At the back, the Kicks presents a rounder rear with LED taillights and black accents on the lower bumper. The design is a great mix of modern and futuristic, offering a sleek appearance that appeals to many.

Overall, we feel that the Toyota Yaris Cross has more design elements and sharper lines that help set it apart from the Nissan Kicks. So let’s give this to the Yaris Cross.

Winner: Toyota Yaris Cross S

The Toyota Yaris Cross HEV's interior exudes a modern vibe, with a black leather interior adorned with stylish blue stitching, accentuating the sense of luxury. The dash features a striking blue accent line, adding elegance and sportiness to the cabin. The materials are sturdy and offer great touchpoints throughout. Passengers in the rear enjoy ample space and comfort, while practical elements like the power lift tailgate and configurable ambient lighting enhance the driving experience. However, some areas, like the faux-metal trimming and cupholders, feel a bit tacky and less up to par with quality.

On the other hand, the Nissan Kicks VL's interior follows a minimalist design approach, offering subtle leather accents and contrast stitching. Soft-touch materials are plentiful, but shiny black plastics can get scratched or smudged over time. The cabin features an eight-inch infotainment system, automatic climate controls, and multiple charging points, making it practical and convenient for occupants.

Like the exterior, we feel that the interior of the Toyota Yaris Cross has a better overall design compared to the Nissan Kicks, which is also carried over from other Nissan models. There’s a bit more imagination with the interior design of the Yaris Cross.

Winner: Toyota Yaris Cross S

The Toyota Yaris Cross HEV boasts impressive technology and connectivity features, with a 10.1-inch infotainment display that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Pioneer six-speaker audio system delivers good sound quality, and the infotainment display also houses 360-degree cameras and a panoramic view monitor for easy parking and maneuvering. The Yaris Cross comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), a comprehensive safety suite featuring Pre-Collision System, Automatic High Beam, Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control, ensuring a safe and confident driving experience.

The Nissan Kicks VL offers an eight-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an intelligent mobility suite that includes features such as an around view monitor, forward collision warning, emergency braking, driver attention alert, and hill start assist. The Kicks' unique e-Power system provides the benefits of an electric vehicle without the downsides of range anxiety.

Both offer similar features and tech, albeit presented just slightly better in the Yaris Cross, but if we were to base it purely on specifications, it would be a tie for both.

TIE

The Toyota Yaris Cross HEV is powered by a 2NR-VEX 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine, combined with a hybrid system, resulting in a total output of 109 hp. The electric motor provides instant torque, making acceleration feel brisk, especially at lower speeds. The Yaris Cross performs well as a city car and a cruiser on highways, though some may find its engine transitions slightly rough compared to other smoother hybrids in Toyota's lineup.

The Nissan Kicks VL comes with Nissan's unique e-Power system, acting as a series hybrid where the electric motor is the sole source of driving power, while the gasoline engine acts as a generator. The e-Power system offers near-instantaneous torque and a smooth driving experience in electric mode. The Kicks also provides the option to run in full electric mode, giving it the benefits of an EV without range anxiety. It’s smooth even if the generator kicks in, plus it’s much more athletic and dynamic to drive as well, both in the corners and in a straight line.

The Nissan Kicks is just a better car to drive overall whilst retaining great fuel economy. It’s more athletic and dynamic to drive while retaining similar comfort to the Yaris Cross. The Nissan Kicks takes the cake here.

Winner: Nissan Kicks VL

The Nissan Kicks VL comes in at a slightly lower price point at P1,539,000 compared to the Toyota Yaris Cross HEV price tag of P1,598,000, making it a more affordable option for budget-conscious buyers.

It may not sound like a lot, but every peso does count and is money that can be used for investment or other purchases elsewhere, so the Nissan Kicks wins in the pricing department.

Winner: Nissan Kicks VL

Both the Toyota Yaris Cross HEV and Nissan Kicks VL offer a compelling package in the compact crossover segment. The Yaris Cross wins in terms of exterior design and interior features, offering a sporty and luxurious cabin. The Kicks, on the other hand, shines in terms of its unique e-Power system, providing the benefits of an EV without range anxiety.

Ultimately, the choice between these two models will come down to personal preferences and priorities. The Toyota Yaris Cross HEV appeals to those seeking a stylish and comfortable daily driver with strong safety features. On the other hand, the Nissan Kicks VL stands out for its innovative e-Power system, providing a taste of electrified mobility without the limitations of range anxiety. Both models offer fuel efficiency and technology, making them excellent choices for urban commuters and environmentally-conscious drivers. All things said, both cars end up with a tie with split points for both.

Overall: TIE