Toyota Corolla Cross
Destined for SA production?
Some time ago the best-selling Corolla series from Toyota, besides a sedan and hatch consisted of a liftback model, a station wagon, a twodoor Sport coupé, and even an All-trac derivative. This AE95 All-trac wagon was built from 1988 until 1992 and was only available in the United States.
With the recent global premiere of the new Cross compact SUV in Thailand it is clear Toyota wants to grow and evolve the Corolla family again (also the reason why the Quest is not part of the local Corolla range anymore), and this model is set to be launched in a growing number of markets – including South Africa.
Toyota South Africa does not want to divulge much about future product plans but in a recent presentation the upcoming production of a small SUV in the Prospecton plant was suggested. Given the need for local change to TNGA platform production and the swing towards SUVS, the Corolla Cross could be a likely candidate for this.
According to Toyota in Japan the design of the “Corolla meets SUV” model combines Rav4-like exterior sturdiness (including fender moulds) and utility in a manner that “exceeds customer expectations”. Like its bigger RAV4 sibling the Corolla Cross is based on the TNGA platform (GA-C) but at 4 460 mm long, it is 140 mm shorter than the RAV4 and 100 mm longer than the C-HR, although it shares the same wheelbase dimensions with the C-HR.
The spacious five-seat cabin has class-leading luggage space of 440 litres (with a space-saver spare tyre), and a new torsion-beam suspension results in a stable, cushioned ride. Outstanding utility is provided by easy access to the luggage space, while its class-leading turning radius of 5.2 meters results in responsive handling. Safety equipment inherited from the Corolla (including Toyota Safety Sense on top models) provides customer peace of mind.
Petrol and hybrid drive
Toyota claims the lightened body of the Corolla Cross – with a kerb weight of 1 325 kg – enables the petrol-driven models, powered by a 1.8-litre fourcylinder engine (103 kw and 177 Nm of torque) coupled to an electric continuously variable transmission (Super CVT-I), to achieve superb fuel efficiency of 6,5 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 150 g/km.
The Thai-specification Corolla Cross hybrid electric models, powered by a 2ZR-FXE THS II 1,8-litre petrol engine with reduction gear and electric motor with a combined power output of 90 kw, can achieve a fuel efficiency of 4.3 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 98 g/km.
The local introduction of the Corolla Cross is not imminently expected, and when it finds its way here it probably only be (initially, at least) offered in 1.8-litre petrol format. However, if slated for production in Durban, the model may just become the first Toyota hybrid to be produced locally …