TOYOTA Motor Philippines (TMP) has finally brought in its first-ever hybrid crossover in the lineup—the all-new Corolla Cross. The latest crossover combines Toyota’s signature QDR (quality, durability and reliability) style and functionality. Its hybrid variant is a testament to Toyota’s vision of sustainable mobility, as well as to make self-charging hybrid technology more accessible to Filipinos.
Launched recently via an online launch event, the new Corolla Cross comes in two variants—1.8 V HV (Hybrid) and 1.8 G CVT. Also, it features the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), and Toyota Safety Sense (TSS). “Guided by our philosophy of making ever-better cars, Toyota took the best of a trusted model, the Toyota Corolla, and turned it into a sleek and modern crossover,” said TMP President Atsuhiro Okamoto during the online launch of the new vehicle. “The Corolla Cross is designed to move you in comfort and style, whether you’re seeking adventure, doing business, or simply spending time with people you love.”
Based on the current generation Corolla platform, the newest crossover highlights an imposing double trapezoid front grille providing that wide and stable presence. Exclusive to the hybrid variant is LED Light Curtain Daytime Running Lights, and a subtle blue accent to the bi-beam LED headlamps. Sleek lines running on the flanks denotes that “Double C” persona. The front end has a high approach angle and higher ground clearance—adding more flexibility and reliability that is perfect for the dynamic lifestyle.
Inside the spacious, classy yet minimalist interior, seats are wrapped in premium leather material (hybrid variant). Aside from abundant head clearance and ample legroom, the thinner pillars and rear quarter windows provide a better vantage point. There’s also a retractable tonneau cover at the rear trunk space for a more organized loading.
Feature-wise, there is Smart Entry with Push Start System, auto-retractable side mirrors, speed-sensing door locks, rain-sensing windshield wipers (hybrid variant), and an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat (hybrid variant). Moreover, there’s the seven-inch multi-information display (hybrid variant) and the touch-operated infotainment equipped with Apple Carplay and Android Auto functions (hybrid variant).
The hybrid variant is powered by a 1.8-liter gasoline engine with Atkinson Cycle designed for the Hybrid system. With its paired electric motor, combined output is at 134 hp and 207 N-m of maximum torque. There are three driving modes (Eco, Power, and EV) to provide the driver with full control of fuel efficiency and performance. The G grade, meantime, is motivated by a 1.8-liter 16-Valve DOHC, four-cylinder with Dual VVT-I gasoline motor generating 138hp and 172 N-m of maximum torque. Both engines are mated to a continuous variable transmission (CVT).
Developed under TNGA, the Corolla Cross boasts an impressive10.4m curb-to-curb turning loop. Like its sedan sibling, the Corolla Cross is fitted with MacPherson strut front suspension optimized for SUV structure. On the other hand, the rear suspension features an all-new torsion beam with improved handling and reduced body roll. Further, the combined suspension setup, along with rigid body structure, ensures maximum stability and comfort.
Safety-wise, both variants are equipped with seven SRS air bags, Anti-Lock Brake System with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Vehicle Stability Control with Traction Control, Hill Start Assist, and 3-point Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) seatbelts. The hybrid variant gets two front and four rear clearance sonars, while the G grade has two in the rear, but the reverse camera is standard.
Exclusive to the Hybrid variant is the TSS feature equipped with Pre-Collision System (PCS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), and Automatic High Beam (AHB). Moreover, there are Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA). When enabled, this system detects vehicles approaching from the rear and blind spots and alerts the driver through visual and audio signals.
The 1.8 V HV (hybrid) is priced at P1.665 million (Platinum White Pearl Mica) and P1.650 million (Metal Stream Metallic, Red Mica Metallic, and Attitude Black Mica. The 1.8 G CVT, meantime, is valued at P1.3 million (Platinum White Pearl Mica) and P1.285 million (Metal Stream Metallic, Red Mica Metallic, and Attitude Black Mica).
Image credits: Toyota Motor Philippines