In Malaysia's SUV market, many buyers compare the Toyota Yaris Cross and Mazda CX-8 when choosing a car. These two models are quite close in price and positioning. Today, we will make a detailed comparison from multiple aspects to help you save time on research.
The OTR price of the Toyota Yaris Cross in Malaysia is RM 99,900 - 109,900, with a total of 2 versions, including 2026 1.5L Standard (RM 99,900), 2026 HEV 1.5L Standard (RM 109,900), etc.
The OTR price of the Mazda CX-8 in Malaysia is RM 165,360 - 201,360, with a total of 5 versions, including 2025 2.5T 4WD High Plus Petrol (RM 201,360), 2025 2.2L 2WD High Plus Diesel (RM 193,123), 2025 2.5L 2WD High Plus Petrol (RM 186,360), etc.
From a price perspective, the starting price of the Toyota Yaris Cross is indeed RM 65,460 cheaper than the Mazda CX-8. If your budget is limited, Toyota's entry-level version can already meet daily needs. But also note, the few thousand cheaper may involve trade-offs in features, depending on your specific needs.

The Toyota Yaris Cross is equipped with a 1.5L 4-cyl, 105 hp. Official fuel consumption 6.0 L/100km.
The Mazda CX-8 is equipped with a 2.0L 4-cyl, 170 hp. Official fuel consumption 8.0 L/100km.
In terms of power, the Mazda CX-8's 2.0L 4-cyl has 65 more horsepower than the Toyota Yaris Cross's 1.5L 4-cyl. However, for daily driving in the city, the power of both cars is sufficient and won't feel lacking.

The Toyota Yaris Cross safety rating is 5★ (ASEAN NCAP), active safety systems include TSS.
The Mazda CX-8 safety rating is 5★ (ASEAN NCAP), active safety systems include Brand ADAS.
Both cars have the same safety rating, and safety features in this class are quite comprehensive. New cars nowadays don't lack in safety, no need to worry too much about this.

The Toyota Yaris Cross body length is 4400 mm, trunk 400 L.
The Mazda CX-8 body length is 4500 mm, trunk 450 L.
In terms of space, the Mazda CX-8 body is 100 mm longer than the Toyota Yaris Cross, with better passenger space. However, the Toyota Yaris Cross is a bit more flexible for parking in the city, each has its trade-offs.

The Toyota Yaris Cross adopts FWD drive configuration.
The Mazda CX-8 adopts FWD drive configuration.
Both cars have the same drive configuration, both are FWD, there won't be a big difference in daily driving experience.

Overall, both the Toyota Yaris Cross and Mazda CX-8 are very good models in the Malaysian market. Which one to choose depends on your personal needs and budget. We recommend doing your homework, comparing quotes from several dealerships, and test driving before making a final decision. Buying a car is a big matter, spending some time doing homework is never wrong.