Top 10 Toyota Yaris Cross Alternatives in the UK for 2025

When it comes to compact SUVs, the Toyota Yaris Cross has raised the bar for efficiency, reliability, and urban practicality. But the small SUV market in the UK is bursting with brilliant contenders — many offering even better value, comfort, or technology.

We’ve carefully curated a list of the top 10 alternatives to the Toyota Yaris Cross — from budget-friendly crossovers to premium compact EVs — each with its own strengths in style, space, performance, and innovation.

1. Renault Captur — Spacious, Smart, and Smooth

The Renault Captur remains one of the UK’s best-selling small SUVs thanks to its generous boot capacity and excellent hybrid system. Its 1.6-litre E-Tech hybrid combines smooth petrol power with efficient electric assistance, offering up to 60 mpg in mixed driving.

• Boot capacity: 422 litres
• Infotainment: Google-based multimedia system with built-in Maps and Assistant
• Highlights: Excellent visibility, advanced driver aids, and easy parking

It’s slightly firmer than the Yaris Cross on uneven roads, but its practicality and infotainment system make it an outstanding all-rounder.

2. Peugeot 2008 — The Design Lover’s Choice

If aesthetics rank high on your list, the Peugeot 2008 is simply irresistible. With a futuristic cabin, distinctive exterior styling, and the signature i-Cockpit digital display, it feels like driving a mini-concept car every day.

• Engine options: Petrol, diesel, or full-electric (e-2008)
• EV range: Up to 250 miles
• Strengths: Excellent ride quality, strong standard equipment, and high-end finish

Rear seat space isn’t class-leading, but for those who value form and function in equal measure, the 2008 delivers beautifully.

3. Volkswagen T-Cross — Compact Yet Surprisingly Roomy

The Volkswagen T-Cross offers a level of practicality that defies its size. Its boxy design maximises interior volume, and its split-sliding rear seats provide superb flexibility for families or urban explorers.

• Boot capacity: 385–455 litres (depending on seat configuration)
• Engine: 1.0 TSI petrol (efficient and refined)
• Strengths: Elevated driving position, easy handling, excellent visibility

Interior materials could be softer for the price, but the T-Cross remains one of the most balanced and trustworthy crossovers in the segment.

4. Škoda Kamiq — The Sensible All-Rounder

The Škoda Kamiq epitomises practicality. It may not grab headlines for design, but its clever details make ownership genuinely easier.

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• Features: Hidden umbrella in the door, ice scraper in fuel cap
• Boot space: 400 litres
• Engines: 1.0 and 1.5 TSI petrol
• Strengths: Rear seat comfort, solid build quality, and user-friendly technology

For UK buyers who value space, reliability, and simplicity, the Kamiq is the Yaris Cross’s strongest rational rival.

5. Kia EV3 — The Electric Compact SUV Benchmark

Kia’s new EV3 redefines what small electric SUVs can do. It combines futuristic styling, class-leading efficiency, and a genuinely comfortable cabin.

• Range: Up to 300 miles (WLTP)
• Charging: 10–80% in under 30 minutes (fast charger)
• Highlights: Impressive boot space, quiet motorway manners, and advanced driver tech

Though pricier than the Yaris Cross, the EV3’s all-electric powertrain makes it an ideal upgrade for eco-conscious UK motorists looking for long-term savings.

6. Hyundai Kona — Bold, Versatile, and Tech-Packed

The Hyundai Kona is one of the most complete packages in this segment. Whether you pick the petrol hybrid or fully electric version, it delivers comfort, technology, and performance in abundance.

• Interior: Dual 12.3-inch panoramic screens
• EV range: Up to 319 miles (Kona Electric)
• Strengths: Spacious interior, distinctive design, and strong warranty coverage

Some driver aids can feel overly sensitive, but overall the Kona strikes an exceptional balance between value and sophistication.

7. Ford Puma — Fun, Efficient, and British Favourite

Built right here in the UK, the Ford Puma adds a dose of driving joy to the small SUV class. With its sharp steering and grippy chassis, it feels more like a hot hatch than a crossover.

• Engines: Mild hybrid EcoBoost petrol (125–155 hp)
• Boot: 456 litres + MegaBox underfloor storage
• Strengths: Superb handling, economical engines, and smart cabin design

The rear seats are snug, but the Puma’s charm lies in its dynamic personality and real-world practicality.

8. Audi Q2 — Premium Appeal in a Compact Form

For those wanting a luxury badge without stepping into a larger SUV, the Audi Q2 fits perfectly. Its high-quality cabin, precise steering, and refined engines make it feel every bit the premium choice.

• Powertrains: 1.0 TFSI to 2.0 quattro variants
• Strengths: Superior build quality, advanced safety features, prestige factor
• Weaknesses: Tight rear legroom and higher running costs

If the Yaris Cross feels too mainstream, the Q2 provides a touch of exclusivity and German sophistication.

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9. Dacia Sandero Stepway — Budget-Friendly Practicality

The Dacia Sandero Stepway is the small SUV for buyers who want value above all. Despite its low price tag, it offers surprising comfort and practicality.

• Price: From just £15,295
• Engine: 1.0-litre TCe petrol or bi-fuel LPG
• Strengths: Soft suspension, generous standard kit, and raised ride height

It lacks the hybrid refinement of the Yaris Cross, but for urban commuters or first-time car owners, the Stepway’s affordability is unbeatable.

10. Toyota Yaris — A Familiar Yet Distinct Alternative

Sometimes the best alternative is right at home. The Toyota Yaris hatchback uses the same 1.5-litre hybrid engine as the Cross, offering exceptional economy and reliability in a more compact, lighter package.

• Fuel economy: Up to 68 mpg (combined)
• Benefits: Lower price, easier parking, sharper handling
• Limitations: Smaller boot, less headroom

If SUV height isn’t a must, the standard Yaris remains a brilliant city-friendly alternative with the same Toyota dependability.

Comparison Summary Table

Final Thoughts

The Toyota Yaris Cross is one of the UK’s most well-balanced small SUVs — but as we’ve seen, the alternatives are equally compelling. Whether you want luxury (Audi Q2), electric innovation (Kia EV3), or budget practicality (Dacia Stepway), there’s a perfect fit waiting.

Choosing between them comes down to priorities: economy, performance, comfort, or badge prestige. But rest assured — in 2025, the compact SUV market has never been more exciting, diverse, or rewarding for UK drivers.

FAQs

1. Which car is most similar to the Toyota Yaris Cross?
The Renault Captur and Hyundai Kona offer the closest blend of efficiency, size, and hybrid technology.

2. What’s the best electric alternative to the Yaris Cross?
The Kia EV3 stands out with its 300-mile range and family-friendly interior.

3. Which Yaris Cross alternative is cheapest in the UK?
The Dacia Sandero Stepway — priced from around £15,000 — offers unbeatable value.

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4. Which small SUV is most fun to drive?
The Ford Puma delivers outstanding agility and performance while remaining affordable to run.

5. Is the Toyota Yaris hatchback better than the Yaris Cross?
For drivers prioritising fuel economy and compact size, the Yaris hatchback is ideal. Those needing more boot space and SUV styling should stick with the Cross.

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