In the Malaysian SUV market, many buyers compare Toyota Yaris Cross and Kia Sportage when choosing a car. These two cars are quite close in price and positioning. Today, we will make a detailed comparison from multiple aspects to help you save time doing research.
Toyota Yaris Cross has an OTR price of RM 99,900 - 109,900 in Malaysia, with a total of 2 versions, including 2026 1.5L Standard (RM 99,900), 2026 HEV 1.5L Standard (RM 109,900), etc.
Kia Sportage has an OTR price of RM 129,639 - 179,320 in Malaysia, 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 can already meet daily needs. But be aware, the few thousand savings might involve compromises in features, which depends on your specific needs.

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

Toyota Yaris Cross safety rating is 5★ (ASEAN NCAP), active safety system includes TSS.
Kia Sportage safety rating is 5★ (ASEAN NCAP), active safety system includes Drive Wise.
Both cars have the same safety rating. Safety features in this class are quite comprehensive. New cars nowadays have good safety, so no need to worry too much about this.

Toyota Yaris Cross body length 4400 mm, trunk 400 L.
Kia Sportage body length 4400 mm, trunk 400 L.
The dimensions of both cars are almost the same, and the interior space is not much different. Cars in this class are fully sufficient for daily use.

Toyota Yaris Cross adopts FWD drive method.
Kia Sportage adopts FWD drive method.
Both cars have the same drive method, both are FWD, daily driving experience will not differ much.

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 test driving before making a final decision. Buying a car is a big matter, spending time doing research will never be wrong.