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The Toyota Corolla nameplate will spawn a new SUV model for the first time with the introduction of the Corolla Cross.
Coming hot on the heels of the Yaris Cross, the Corolla Cross is set to launch in Australia in 2022 as a MY2023 offering, slotting in between the Yaris Cross and popular RAV4 as a more practical alternative to the style-focused C-HR.
Built on the same GA-C platform as the Corolla hatch and sedan, the Corolla Cross measures 4,460mm long, 1,825mm wide and 1,620mm tall, with a 2,640mm wheelbase.
It features MacPherson strut front suspension, torsion-beam rear suspension and rides on 17- and 18-inch wheels wrapped in 215/60 and 225/50 tyres, respectively.
Toyota says it will have a spacious cabin, “excellent” luggage space, easy entry and exit, and a high level of safety equipment inherited from the Corolla.
No further technical details were released by the company at this stage except that it will have a “high level of body rigidity and a well balanced chassis for responsive and agile driving”, as well as “a comfortable ride and outstanding quietness”.
We can expect power to come from the same 125kW/200Nm 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine as the Corolla range, along with the 90kW 1.8-litre petrol-electric hybrid powertrain.
Toyota Australia Vice President Sales and Marketing Sean Hanley said Corolla Cross will be an important addition to the local range, with SUV sales accelerating to an unprecedented 48 per cent of the market so far this year.
“Corolla Cross is not only stylish and versatile, it delivers the superior practicality demanded by customers in this segment including the high driving position, great visibility, spacious interior and ample head clearance,” Mr Hanley said.
In Australia, Toyota leads the local industry in SUV sales with a 2020 market share of 19.6 per cent, up from 16.5 per cent at the same stage last year.
Led by RAV4 petrol and hybrid variants, Toyota has increased its SUV sales this year by 2.3 per cent.
Since its launch in Japan in 1966, the Corolla nameplate has sold a cumulative total of more than 48 million units globally. It is Toyota’s best-selling car.
Production source and other details for Australia will be announced closer to its launch in 2022.
