@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
@ Toyota Motor Corporation
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Ford Kuga vs Toyota Yaris Cross – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Ford Kuga or Toyota Yaris Cross fits your lifestyle better.

Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Introduction: A Clash of SUVs

In the rapidly evolving automotive landscape, the demand for versatile and efficient SUVs is at an all-time high. In this comparison, we take a closer look at the Ford Kuga and Toyota Yaris Cross, two prominent contenders vying for attention in the compact SUV segment. Both models offer a blend of innovation, performance, and practicality, but how do they stack up against each other in terms of technical specifications and innovative features? Let’s dive in.

Yaris Cross @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Performance and Engine Options

The Ford Kuga is available with a diverse range of powertrain options, which include petrol, full hybrid, and plug-in hybrid engines. The petrol engines deliver power outputs ranging from 150 HP to a robust 243 HP, providing ample performance for various driving needs. With options for both manual and automatic transmissions, including a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), drivers can choose the setup that best suits their driving style.

In contrast, the Toyota Yaris Cross is exclusively equipped with a full hybrid engine. It offers a more modest power output of 116 HP to 130 HP, accompanied by a single automatic transmission featuring CVT technology. While the Yaris Cross may not have as much horsepower as the Kuga, its hybrid efficiency claims a notable edge in fuel consumption, with figures ranging from 4.5 L/100km to 4.8 L/100km.

Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Fuel Efficiency: Going the Extra Mile

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Ford Kuga also offers impressive figures, particularly in its hybrid variants, with consumption as low as 0.9 L/100km in electric mode. The electric range of up to 69 km positions it as a strong contender in urban commuting scenarios. The petrol models, while slightly less efficient, still maintain reasonable consumption rates.

The Yaris Cross, on the other hand, stands out as a champion of fuel economy with efficient hybrid technology. Its combined figures make it an attractive option for eco-conscious buyers looking to minimize their carbon footprint, notably achieving a CO2 emissions rating of 101-108 g/km.

Yaris Cross @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Interior Space and Comfort

Both models provide generous seating for five, but the Ford Kuga offers a more spacious experience overall. With a trunk capacity of up to 412 liters, it ensures ample space for luggage and gear. Additionally, its curb weight variations from 1526 kg to 1859 kg imply a robust structure that enhances road stability.

The Toyota Yaris Cross features a slightly smaller trunk capacity, ranging from 320 to 397 liters, which might be limiting for some users. Nevertheless, its compact dimensions (4180 mm in length and 1765 mm in width) make it agile in urban settings. When it comes to passenger space, both SUV models offer adequate legroom and headroom, making them comfortable rides for daily commutes or longer trips.

Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Safety and Technology Innovations

Safety features are paramount for modern SUVs, and both models come equipped with a host of advanced safety technologies. The Ford Kuga boasts a variety of driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automated emergency braking, all designed to enhance overall driving security.

The Toyota Yaris Cross counters with its robust suite of Toyota Safety Sense technologies, which includes pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, and lane-tracing assist. Both vehicles prioritize safety, giving drivers peace of mind on the road.

Yaris Cross @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Conclusion: Which SUV Reigns Supreme?

Ultimately, the choice between the Ford Kuga and Toyota Yaris Cross depends on individual preferences and needs. The Kuga offers a broader range of powertrains and larger cargo capacity, while the Yaris Cross excels in fuel efficiency and advanced safety features. For drivers seeking power and versatility, the Kuga is an excellent pick. In contrast, those prioritizing eco-friendliness and nimbleness may find the Yaris Cross to be the ideal companion.

In this head-to-head matchup, both SUVs certainly have something to offer, ensuring a competitive market that benefits the consumer. The decision may well come down to personal style and specific requirements, making this a fascinating segment to watch in the coming years.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Toyota Yaris Cross has a significantly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 23700 £, while the Ford Kuga costs 34200 £. That’s a price difference of around 10551 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Ford Kuga manages with 2.80 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the Toyota Yaris Cross with 4.50 L. The difference is about 1.70 L per 100 km.

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Ford Kuga has a clearly edge – offering 243 HP compared to 130 HP. That’s roughly 113 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Ford Kuga is significantly quicker – completing the sprint in 7.30 s, while the Toyota Yaris Cross takes 10.70 s. That’s about 3.40 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Ford Kuga performs slightly better – reaching 200 km/h, while the Toyota Yaris Cross tops out at 170 km/h. The difference is around 30 km/h.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Toyota Yaris Cross is distinct lighter – 1180 kg compared to 1526 kg. The difference is around 346 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Ford Kuga offers slight more room – 412 L compared to 397 L. That’s a difference of about 15 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Ford Kuga performs noticeable better – up to 1534 L, which is about 437 L more than the Toyota Yaris Cross.

When it comes to payload, Ford Kuga slight takes the win – 550 kg compared to 510 kg. That’s a difference of about 40 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Ford Kuga proves to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Ford Kuga is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £34,200
Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Ford Kuga

  • Engine Type : Petrol, Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 150 - 243 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.8 - 6.8 L
  • Electric Range : 68 km

Ford Kuga

3.5 (2)
rate

The Kuga is Ford’s adaptable family SUV that blends usable space with a surprisingly lively driving character, making daily commutes and weekend escapes equally enjoyable. With smart interior packaging, an easy-to-use infotainment setup and composed road manners, it’s a sensible choice for buyers who want a bit of fun without the fuss.

details

Toyota Yaris Cross

5 (1)
rate

The Toyota Yaris Cross takes the jaunty personality of the Yaris and gives it a taller stance and a bit more practicality, so you get city-friendly agility with added SUV presence. It’s easy to live with, economical on the daily grind, and smartly packaged — a sensible pick for buyers who want fuss-free transport with a touch of character.

details
Ford Kuga
Toyota Yaris Cross
Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
Yaris Cross @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Costs and Consumption

Price
34200 - 46300 £
Price
23700 - 34300 £
Consumption L/100km
2.8 - 6.8 L
Consumption L/100km
4.5 - 4.8 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
68 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
1.1 - 14.4 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
55 - 154 g/km
co2
101 - 108 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
42 - 54 L
Fuel tank capacity
36 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1526 - 1859 kg
Curb weight
1180 - 1290 kg
Trunk capacity
412 L
Trunk capacity
320 - 397 L
Length
4604 - 4645 mm
Length
4180 mm
Width
1882 mm
Width
1765 mm
Height
1673 - 1681 mm
Height
1595 mm
Max trunk capacity
1534 L
Max trunk capacity
1097 L
Payload
541 - 550 kg
Payload
485 - 510 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol, Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Full Hybrid
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, CVT, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
CVT
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 243 HP
Power HP
116 - 130 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.3 - 9.9 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
10.7 - 11.3 s
Max Speed
195 - 200 km/h
Max Speed
170 km/h
Torque
240 Nm
Torque
-
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
3
Power kW
111 - 178 kW
Power kW
85 - 96 kW
Engine capacity
1496 - 2488 cm3
Engine capacity
1490 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, D, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
C
Brand
Ford
Brand
Toyota
What drivetrain options does the Ford Kuga have?

The Ford Kuga is available as Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.