After much hype and rumours, the Toyota Indus Motors (IMC) CEO Ali Jamali has given the timeline of launch of Corolla Cross in Pakistan. Talking to media, Jamali said the SUV would hit Pakistan in December, meaning only after a month. “All imported fully-built units (CBUs) will be integrated into the country,” he said. He also said the cars would come from Thailand.
Corolla Cross Features:
Let’s go over Corolla cross, which sits on top of TNGA-C [Toyota New Global Architecture] platform which is dedicated for compact vehicle class both front and AWD versions. This is the same platform it shares with the 12th generation Corolla as well the C-HR
Exterior:
On exterior of Corolla Cross, it follows typical current Toyota model lineup styling of SUV’S. Although the name carries word “Corolla”, it does not look like the Corolla sedan or Corolla hatchback as far as the exterior. The wider front grill mimics the current generation of Rav4 while rear end also looks influenced by the Rav4. Projector headlights with built-in slim DRL [ daytime running lights] on the front, black plastic cladding on wheel arches, sloping roof-line and black roof rails give overall a very sporty looking rugged vehicle.
Both 17” and 18” alloy wheels are an option depending upon the variant. Like its Corolla sibling, depending upon trim level, convenience features and options will be available.
Interior of Corolla Cross:
As of interior as soon as you jump into the interior, the things look similar to new 12th generation Corolla. The floating infotainment system, the digital cluster as well as digital HVAC controls and the dashboard itself is all taken from the Corolla. The vehicle is a 5-seater and that the only option. Although there is an option of the sunroof, there is no Panoramic roof.
Electric power steering comes standard while MacPherson strut is at the front suspension, torsion-beam is the rear suspension. Again, for reference, the Corolla sedan comes with an all-new multi-link rear setup, not found in Corolla Cross.
Power Train:
As of power plant, the Cross is offered in two engine options in Thailand and its soul is similar to what is found in the 12th generation Corolla. A standard familiar FWD, 1.8L 2ZR-FBE with 140HPand 175 NM of torque. The standard transmission is the CVT.
Toyota also offers a hybrid variant for Cross and its again familiar 1.8-litre 2ZR-FXE engine which makes 98hp and 142nm of torque. There is an electric motor with a 72HP with 163NM of torque which works in conjunction with the gasoline engine and while total system power to be around 121Hp and this is the same setup as found in Corolla Hybrid or Prius.
Corolla Cross and The Price Issue:
The biggest issue for the new SUV would be the price. It will not cost cheaper than Tucson or Sportage even after Hybrid subsidy on duty. As a reference point, Indus is selling the Toyota Rush [1.5L 103hp engine and falls in 1300cc to 1500cc duty structure] as CBU for PKR5.6 Million base manual while PKR5.8 million for AT and in both cases it cost more than the Tucson and for that matter Sportage.
Sales of CBU Rush are extremely low, while Prius as CBU also cost over PKR9 million even after duty subsidy.
