Dark Version Crossover Premiere in Thailand
Toyota has introduced in Thailand a new special version of its subcompact crossover Yaris Cross, named Nightshade. This model features a unique design with dark accents and an expanded equipment list, positioning itself as the flagship version for Southeast Asian markets.
Key Features of the Newcomer
Updated Design and Exterior
The Yaris Cross for Southeast Asian markets, first presented in 2023 in Indonesia, features an aggressive front-end design with LED optics reminiscent of a scaled-down version of the Highlander SUV. The Nightshade version received a unique “Metro Stylish” radiator grille with a body-colored Toyota emblem area and a new pattern. This change positively impacted the styling, and this crossover could easily be mistaken for a minor facelift.
The new grille has a positive effect on the crossover’s styling, which can easily be mistaken for a minor facelift.
Other visual distinctions of the Nightshade include black 18-inch alloy wheels and corresponding dark accents on the body. Gloss black elements appeared on plastic claddings, air intake surrounds, underbody protection, window surrounds, mirrors, spoiler, and tailgate. The color palette is limited to Cement Gray Metallic and Platinum White Pearl, which are always paired with a black roof.
Interior and Equipment
In the dark-toned interior, the seats are upholstered in synthetic leather, while the door cards, steering wheel, center console, and gear lever are covered in genuine leather. The Nightshade version is based on the top trim of the Yaris Cross and has rich equipment. Standard features include a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, a 10.1-inch multimedia system screen, a power tailgate, and the Toyota Safety Sense safety system suite.
Technical Features and Market Positioning
Unlike the global model, which is built on the TNGA-B platform, the Yaris Cross for Southeast Asia uses the DNGA architecture from Daihatsu. It is also 130 mm longer than the European Yaris Cross version, with an overall length of 4,310 mm. In the Thai market, this crossover is exclusively hybrid. The powertrain combines a 1.5-liter Dual VVT-i gasoline engine with a single electric motor, producing a combined 110 horsepower. Torque to the front axle is transmitted via an E-CVT. This setup is standard for the entire lineup, and the special version did not receive any updates to the chassis or performance.
The Yaris Cross Nightshade is already available for order in Thailand. Its price starts from 919,000 baht (approximately $28,800 USD), making it the most expensive version in the lineup. Standard trims cost from 789,000 to 899,000 baht.
The appearance of the Nightshade version underscores Toyota’s trend towards product localization and offering special series for specific regions. This allows the company to maintain interest in the model without global updates, offering buyers exclusive design and additional equipment. This approach is especially relevant in the competitive compact crossover markets, where visual appeal and uniqueness often become decisive arguments when choosing a car.