2024 Toyota Yaris Cross surfaces with more spice for GR Sport, but can Toyota's light SUV catch up to Mazda CX-3, Hyundai Venue and Kia Stonic in sales race?

Toyota's Yaris Cross light SUV has been refreshed in Europe, potentially previewing an update for the Australian version of the Hyundai Venue, Kia Stonic and Mazda CX-3 rival.

Headline feature is that the top-spec GR Sport variant of the Yaris Cross scores a more potent electric motor, meaning the hybrid system's combined total output jumps up from 85kW to 97kW (+ 14 per cent).

The electric motor is again paired with a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol three-cylinder engine, with torque also rising 30 per cent from 141Nm to 185Nm.

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Matched with a continuously variable transmission that drives the front wheels, the sportier Yaris Cross GR Sport will now accelerate from 0-100km/h in 10.7 seconds, making it 0.5s quicker than before.

Toyota is promising "a more dynamic and responsive feel with acceleration and deceleration performance that adds enjoyment to every drive".

In Europe, at least, Toyota will continue to offer the Yaris Cross GR Sport in the lower 85kW/141Nm state of tune, now known as the 'Hybrid 115', while the more potent version is christened 'Hybrid 130'.

However, the rest of the Yaris Cross line-up also receives some love, with noise, vibration and harshness levels improved thanks to extra cabin insulation.

Headline feature is that the top-spec GR Sport variant of the Yaris Cross scores a more potent electric motor.

Overseas customers also gain access to a larger 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, as well as a multimedia screen up to 10.5 inches in size, both featuring a faster processor and better speech recognition.

The multimedia system also now supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as over-the-air updates.

Despite the changes under the skin, the 2024 Toyota Yaris Cross looks identical to the 2023 model barring a new 'Urban Khaki' paint finish.

The Yaris Cross launched in Australia in late 2020 and quickly shot up in popularity as one of Toyota's most affordable models, and the only light SUV available with a hybrid powertrain.

The multimedia system also now supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as over-the-air updates.

However, that popularity has waned this year, with the Yaris Cross amassing 4946 new registrations to the end of October, trailing the Mazda CX-3 (13,324), Kia Stonic (6069), Hyundai Venue (5180) and VW T-Cross (5014).

CarsGuide has contacted Toyota Australia to determine if the changes to the European Yaris Cross will make their way Down Under.