New Toyota Corolla Cross SUV gets global premiere in Thailand

Toyota has expanded its Corolla series of passenger vehicles with the new Corolla Cross compact SUV. The global premiere of the model was held today in Thailand, where sales have now commenced. The Corolla Cross will be launched in a growing number of other markets, going forward according to Toyota.

According to the Japanese carmaker, the focal point of the new product development was ‘Corolla Meets SUV’. A company statement says, “The model was designed as a new type of SUV that combines dignified sturdiness in the exterior, and utility in a manner that exceeds customer expectations. The TNGA platform (GA-C) has enabled the Corolla Cross to achieve high-quality performance, a comfortable ride, and outstanding quietness. In addition to its exceptional comfort, the Corolla Cross provides a spacious cabin, easy entry into and exit from the car, class-leading luggage space suitable for all scenarios, and safety equipment inherited from the Corolla series. In this way, the new model realises comfort, utility, and peace of mind for customers.”

The new Corolla CROSS is available with a 1.8-litre petrol e.ngine and 1.8-litre fourth-generation hybrid engine. The 2ZR-FBE inline 4 DOHC 16-valve petrol engine, which develops 98hp, is mated to a seven-speed CVT-i Transmission with sequential shift and shift lock. The average fuel consumption is 15.4 kilometres per litre, with the carbon dioxide emission of 150 grams per kilometre. It is compatible with E85 fuel.

Meanwhile, the hybrid engine’s battery, which Toyota says is largely developed to offer greater performance, endurance, and fuel economy, delivers  fuel economy of up to 23.3 kilometres per litre, with  carbon dioxide emission of 98 grams per kilometre. 

Developed on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, the Corolla Cross utilises a newly developed torsion beam. Toyota says the suspension has been largely enhanced for better grip and smooth ride, while improving the balance while driving straight and cornering.

The new Corolla Cross, which offers luggage space with a maximum capacity of up to 487 litres, offers easy cabin ingress and. The SUV also comes with power back door with activated kick sensor. Other highlights power adjustable driver seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear seats can be reclined up to 6 degrees, rear seat armrest with cup holders, along with air vents and USB outlets for rear passengers. As regards vehicle connectivity, the Corolla Cross is equipped with a  9-inch touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay together with T-Connect.

On the safety front, the Corolla Cross gets Toyota Safety Sense – pre-collision system, lane departure alert with steering assist, dynamic radar cruise control with lane tracing assist, automatic high beam, as well as panoramic view monitor, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, and 7 SRS airbags 

Since its launch in Japan in 1966, the Corolla series has sold a cumulative total of 48 million units or more, in more than 150 countries and regions around the world; it is Toyota's best-selling car. The new Corolla Cross is yet another iteration of the iconic model.