Is it for the best?
If you haven’t noticed, the Toyota Corolla is one of the most beloved cars in the world. This is despite the fact that it has had many body styles over the years. It has sold more than 50,000,000 units to date and this number is expected to grow rapidly with the introduction of a new crossover.
The Corolla Cross was introduced in Thailand in July 2020, almost a year after the US-spec model. The two versions of the compact crossover are almost identical. However, the Japanese version, which was introduced today, has a different design, particularly the front fascia.
The JDM version’s headlights feature different graphics. There is also a small insert to the badge that acts as a grille. This is the Corolla logo, which can also be used on the regular hatchback, sedan and wagon in Japan. On the Land of the Rising Sun version, the main grille is slightly lower and wider.
Side profile is virtually unchanged, except for market-specific alloy wheels designs. The rear end features mildly modified taillights with LED graphics. The interior cabin looks almost identical to the global Corolla Cross with the exception of the right hand-drive layout. This is not surprising considering that it is usually the exterior that undergoes changes in each market.
Although a hybrid version is not yet available for the US, it’s Japanese sibling will get an electrified 1.8-liter gasoline motor with an optional all-wheel drive layout. The E-Four models will offer the Corolla Cross a sophisticated double-wishbone suspension.
Prices for the base gasoline-only model start at 1,999,000 Japanese yen (or $18,150 at current exchange rate), and go up to 3,199,000 yen ($29,000.00) for AWD hybrids in the top-of-the-line “Z” trim level. Modellista will offer an aftermarket package to the Corolla Cross for those who want to spend more.
The car features a bold front bumper and a prominent splitter, as well as chunky side skirts with body-colored fenders. Modellista can also provide a variety of alloy wheels in 17- or 18-inch sizes. For those who want to spice up their Corolla Cross, the renowned tuner also made minor changes inside the cabin.
Today is the day that the JDM-spec model goes up for sale. It’s also available through Kinto One, starting at 27,390 yen ($250 per month), with taxes and insurance.