The Toyota Corolla Cross, renowned for its adaptability across diverse global markets, undergoes a significant transformation in its Thai-spec version, aligning closer with its European, Japanese, and American counterparts in terms of technological advancements while retaining its distinctive visual identity.
The recent facelift of the Thai-spec Corolla Cross arrives nearly four years after its initial debut in 2020, heralding a new era of sophistication and innovation. A focal point of the exterior enhancements lies in the redesigned grille, now adorned with a sleek body-colored finish and intricate honeycomb pattern, elevating its aesthetic appeal. Additionally, the model embraces a fresh ensemble of LED Crystalized headlights featuring sequential turn signals, a feature already embraced in other markets, seamlessly integrated with the Toyota emblem via a trim piece, reminiscent of the full-width LED design observed in sibling models.
While the exterior receives notable updates, the core design elements, including the sporty bodykit characteristic of the GR Sport trim, remain unchanged, preserving the Corolla Cross's dynamic persona. The color palette, now enriched with five shades including the striking Cement Gray Metallic, offers consumers a diverse array of options to reflect their individual style preferences.
Venturing inside, the facelifted Corolla Cross unveils a host of premium amenities, including the introduction of a new panoramic frameless roof equipped with an electric sunshade, enhancing the ambiance and providing occupants with an elevated driving experience. The digital cockpit features a state-of-the-art 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster seamlessly integrated with a 10.1-inch infotainment system, boasting compatibility with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless connectivity. Additional conveniences include a wireless charging pad, USB Type-C ports, dual-zone air conditioning, and an enhanced Toyota Safety Sense ADAS suite, ensuring uncompromised safety and convenience for all passengers. Interior upholstery options are available in either black or dark rose shades, allowing for personalized customization.
Under the hood, the facelifted model offers two powertrain options, including a naturally-aspirated 1.8-liter gasoline engine or a 1.8-liter self-charging hybrid configuration, catering to varying performance preferences. The non-electrified version delivers a robust 138 hp and 172 Nm of torque, transmitting power to the front wheels via the Super CVT-i gearbox. Meanwhile, the hybrid variant combines a 1.8-liter engine with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 121 hp and propelling the vehicle through an E-CVT gearbox.
With sales already underway in Thailand, pricing for the 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross ranges from 999,000 baht ($27,825) for the entry-level 1.8 Sport variant to 1,254,000 baht ($34,920) for the flagship HEV GR Sport model, offering consumers a compelling blend of performance, sophistication, and value in the competitive compact SUV segment.