Updated 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross launched exclusively as hybrid-electric vehicle
The Toyota Corolla Cross has become a firm favorite in the Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) lineup for offering superb practicality and solid driving dynamics.
An updated version of the crossover was launched on Friday at SM Aura in Taguig City, now sporting a strong dose of sustainability. That’s because all three variants are now available exclusively as hybrid-electric vehicles (HEV), powered by Toyota’s proven 1.8-liter, twin-cam, 16-valve inline-4 gasoline engine mated to an electric motor.
Combined output for this meaner(-looking) and greener crossover is 120 horsepower and 142 Newton-meters of torque. This is mated to a continuously variable transmission.
3 electrified variants
Subtle exterior changes provide the 2024 Corolla Cross with a more distinctive look.
The base-model G HEV and mid-grade V HEV now sport a mesh-like front grill with hexagonal outlines. Meanwhile, the top-of-the-line GR-S HEV gets a front end that captures the spirit of GAZOO Racing, which is Toyota’s high-performance division.
For the headlamps, the V HEV and GR-S HEV variants now have LED units with automatic high beam and sequential turn signals, while the G HEV variant has been upgraded from halogen to LED headlights.
Along with the GR-S HEV variant, the V HEV variant now has a power tailgate with a kick sensor. Exclusive GR-S HEV goodies include GR-S 18-inch alloy wheels, GR-S suspension, a panoramic-view camera and a panoramic moonroof.
More upscale cabin
The 2024 Corolla Cross has also addressed criticism of the rather Spartan cabin of the previous model.
Inside, all variants now have LED interior lights and a leather steering wheel. The foot brake has also been replaced with an electronic parking brake.
The updated Corolla Cross is also packed with convenience features, such as a 12.3-inch, fully digital, multi-information display (MID) for the GR-S HEV. The V HEV, meanwhile, has a 7-inch, thin-film-transistor (TFT) MID, while the G HEV has a 4.2-inch TFT MID.
All three variants have a 10-inch, touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless smartphone charger.
In addition, the GR-S HEV and V HEV variants are equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense active-safety suite, which includes Pre-Collision System, Automatic High Beam, Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Departure Alert and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
Starts under P1.5 million
TMP said the Corolla Cross G HEV is priced at P1,498,000, while the V HEV is P1,763,000 and the GR-S HEV is P1,917,000.
The G HEV and V HEV are available in Platinum White Pearl Mica, Celestite Gray Metallic and Metal Stream Metallic colors. The top-spec GR-S HEV comes in either Emotional Red 2/Attitude Black Mica two-tone or Platinum White Pearl Mica/Attitude Black Mica two-tone paint schemes.
“As of end of February 2024, there are already more than 4,000 electrified Corolla Cross on the road, part of the more than 13,000-strong customers who chose electrified Toyota and Lexus models since we started the electrified movement,” said TMP president Masando Hashimoto in a speech.
“These numbers are not just sales figures— these represent Filipinos committed and ready to lessen their carbon impact,” he added. “With our all-HEV new Corolla Cross lineup, along with our wide range of xEV offerings, we continue to practice our multiple path approach to carbon neutrality, giving customers the freedom to choose and the power to start the journey to BEYOND ZERO.”
The updated 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross is on display at SM Aura until Sunday, where it will also be available for test drive. The hybrid crossover is likewise available for viewing and reservation at any Toyota dealership nationwide.
