In the Malaysian SUV market, many buyers compare Toyota Yaris Cross and Kia Sportage 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 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 Kia Sportage in Malaysia is RM 129,639 - 179,320, with a total of 4 versions, including 2025 1.6T DCT 4WD High (RM 179,320), 2025 1.6T DCT 2WD High (RM 159,320), 2025 2.0L AT 2WD High (RM 139,639), etc.
From a price perspective, the starting price of Toyota Yaris Cross is indeed RM 29,739 cheaper than Kia Sportage. If your budget is limited, Toyota's entry-level version is already sufficient for daily needs. But note that the few thousand cheaper might involve compromises in features, which depends on your specific needs.

Toyota Yaris Cross comes with a 1.5L 4-cyl, 105 hp. Official fuel consumption 6.0 L/100km.
Kia Sportage comes with a 1.5L Turbo, 140 hp. Official fuel consumption 7.0 L/100km.
In terms of power, Kia Sportage's 1.5L Turbo has 35 more horsepower than Toyota Yaris Cross's 1.5L 4-cyl. However, for daily city driving, the power of both cars is sufficient, you won't feel it lacks power.

Toyota Yaris Cross safety rating is 5★ (ASEAN NCAP), active safety systems include TSS.
Kia Sportage safety rating is 5★ (ASEAN NCAP), active safety systems include Drive Wise.
Both cars have the same safety rating, safety features are quite comprehensive within this class. New cars nowadays are not lacking in safety, so don't worry too much about this.

Toyota Yaris Cross uses FWD drive mode.
Kia Sportage uses FWD drive mode.
Both cars have the same drive mode, both are FWD, daily driving experience won't have much difference.

Overall, Toyota Yaris Cross and Kia Sportage are both very good models in the Malaysian market. Which one to choose depends on your personal needs and budget. We suggest doing your research, comparing quotes from several dealerships, and then test driving to make a final decision. Buying a car is a big matter, spending time on research will definitely not go wrong.