5 things that make Toyota Corolla Cross an Eco-Smart hybrid crossover

Updated Feb 22, 2022 | Same topic: Branded

Intelligent, efficient, and safe – Toyota’s newest crossover ticks the right boxes.   

Toyota’s latest iteration of the Corolla series isn’t another sedan, hatchback, or station wagon. The Toyota Corolla Cross might seem superfluous in the bigger scheme of things, especially with the continued presence of the RAV4 in Toyota’s local lineup, but this subcompact crossover has a lot more going for it than just riding on the renowned Corolla nameplate. Later in 2022, Toyota Corolla Cross Price Philippines starts at ₱1,303,000 for the entry-level G 1.8 CVT, while the top-of-the-line Toyota Corolla Cross GR-S 1.8 CVT is priced at ₱1,774,000

Corolla Cross 1

Toyota is marketing this crossover as more than just a Corolla on stilts

If you’re looking for a vehicle that’s both smart and efficient while offering loads of practicality, it shouldn’t be surprising to find the Corolla Cross at the top of your list. Here are five reasons why it deserves your consideration.

1. It’s got a hybrid powertrain

The top-spec Corolla Cross utilizes hybrid technology for propulsion, combining the proven 1.8L VVT-i gasoline engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 120 hp. It’s not going to set the pavement on fire, but the main draw of this setup is fuel efficiency, which translates into squeezing out more kilometers per liter and spending less time at the pumps.

Corolla Cross engine bay

The top-spec variant boasts hybrid power which is rare in its class

Reducing fuel consumption also cuts down on emissions, making the air cleaner with every journey. The lighter body is made possible by the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform shared with the Corolla and RAV4, contributing to even more savings while providing a performance-oriented yet comfortable ride.

2. It uses a CVT

Its quirks notwithstanding, a continuously variable transmission or CVT is generally regarded as the most ideal for fuel-saving applications. This kind of gearbox also provides smooth acceleration in frequent stop-and-go traffic, making it less stressful for drivers to operate even in city driving. And since a CVT isn’t tied down by a fixed number of forward gears, it has the flexibility to choose the most suitable gear ratio that can match the engine speed at any given moment.  

3. Bi-LED headlamps light the way

Standard halogen headlamps are steadily giving way to LEDs, which provide higher levels of illumination while using up less power, since the alternator doesn’t have to work as hard. LEDs also last longer, which lessens the amount of waste you’ll generate throughout the vehicle’s lifetime. And since they come stock on the Corolla Cross, there’s no need to fork out cash for dicey aftermarket modifications.

Corolla Cross fascia

Say goodbye to those tacky (and dangerous) aftermarket LED installations

Toyota’s luxury brand Lexus showed the first example of LED technology for automotive lighting, and the Corolla Cross is the latest to benefit from this application.

>>> Related: All-new Toyota Corolla Cross PH debut: Full specs, Pricing revealed

4. Connectivity however you want it

The centerpiece of the dashboard on the Corolla Cross is an 8-inch touchscreen head unit, offering a slew of default connectivity options such as Bluetooth, USB, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Smart Device Link. These make it easier to stream multimedia content, information, and navigation on the go.

Corolla Cross interior

You'll never lack for connectivity options no matter what smartphone you use

The audio system also features intelligent voice command so that you can make adjustments without having to take your hands off the wheel and your eyes away from the road. 

5. Toyota Safety Sense has your back (and front)

What makes a smart and sophisticated vehicle even more desirable, especially for young families? A host of safety features, which the Corolla Cross is more than capable of delivering. 

Corolla Cross profile

Built-in Toyota Safety Sense helps you preserve that pristine exterior, among other things

The standard anti-lock brakes, seven airbags, traction/stability control, and hill start assist are reinforced by Toyota Safety Sense, bringing an array of driver-assist technologies such as Pre-Collision System, Automatic High Beam, Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Departure Alert, and Adaptive Cruise Control.

A rear camera paired with sensors all around the vehicle provide you with eyes and ears on your blind spots. All these ensure that everyone on board is protected, no matter the journey.

Learn more about the Toyota Corolla Cross by visiting Toyota Motor Philippines' official website.

Know more about Toyota Corolla Cross 2024

Toyota Corolla Cross

The 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross is a hybrid-powered five-seater crossover. For the Philippine market, it has three variants - the G, mid-spec V, and the top-spec GR-S. These are offered with a price ranging from Php 1,498,000 to Php 1,922,000. 

Size-wise, the Corolla Cross HEV is 4,460mm long, 1,825mm wide, and 1,620mm in height. The R-S trim is slightly shorter in length at 4,455mm. All trims have a wheelbase length spanning 2,640mm. 

Propelling all variants of the Corolla Cross HEV is a 1.8-liter engine paired with an electric motor. Together, this system can output 121 horsepower and 142 NM of torque. Power is sent to its front wheels via a continuously variable transmission. 

Locally, the Corolla Cross HEV competes against the Geely Azkarra, Ford Territory, Chery Tiggo 7 Pro, and Mazda CX-30, among others. 

>>> New and used Porsche 2024 for sale in the Philippines

Toyota Corolla Cross Launch

The refreshed Toyota Corolla Cross HEV was launched in the Philippines on April 12, 2024. It entered the local market with three variants, all of which are hybrids. At launch, its price ranges from ₱1.498 - 1.922 Million. 

2024 TOYOTA COROLLA CROSS HEV - The Trendsetter HYBRID RETURNS! | Philkotse Quick Look

Toyota Corolla Cross Exterior

On the outside, the updated Corolla Cross HEV’s V and G trims get a new front end which reflects its status as a hybrid model. It gets a slicker grille, a pair of sharp LED headlamps with new LED daytime running lamps, as well as LED front fog lamps. 

Other exterior features found on the Corolla Cross HEV include rain-sensing wipers, power-folding side mirrors, LED taillights, as well as LED rear fog lamps. 

The top-spec GR-S trim also has those features, but it boasts a sportier look thanks to a different grille and unique front and rear bumpers. The GR-S also gets smoked LED lamps, a panoramic sunroof, and roof rails. Standard on both the GR-S and the V is a power tailgate with a kick sensor. 

Toyota Corolla Cross Interior

Inside, the 2024 Corolla Cross HEV can comfortably seat up to five occupants. Plus, it has room to spare for cargo. 

UP front, it gets a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a push-to-start button, an electronic parking brake with auto-hold, and a leather center armrest. Depending on the trim, it also features a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a digital meter cluster, as well as an electrochromic rear-view mirror. 

The rear cabin of this Toyota crossover meanwhile, gets rear USB charging ports, and a folding center armrest. The rear seat also has a 60:40 split-fold functionality. 

Keeping everyone inside the Corolla Cross HEV cool is a dual-zone automatic climate control system. Higher-spec trims like the GR-S and the V also get leather upholstery.

Technology & Safety Features

For the driver, the top-spec GR-S provides a 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster, while the mid-spec V has a seven-inch TFT instrument display. The entry-level G meanwhile, gets a smaller 4.2-inch TFT instrument display. 

On-board entertainment for this Toyota model is handled by a 10-inch touchscreen for all trims. This infotainment system provides wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto. It is then linked to a six-piece speaker system. 

Powering up one’s smartphone is done easily on the Corolla Cross HEV thanks to a wireless charging pad. Plus, it gets type A and type C front USB ports on top of the two type C ports positioned for the rear cabin. 

Safety on the 2024 Corolla Cross HEV is provided by a total of seven airbags, anti-lock braking, stability control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a rear-view (or 360-degree) camera, and parking sensors, among others. 

Those aforementioned features are reinforced by the Toyota Safety Sense advanced driver assist suite. These include dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure warning, lane trace assist, automatic high beams, and a pre-collision system. 

Platform & Chassis

The 2024 Corolla Cross HEV uses a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. Stopping power meanwhile, is provided by disc brakes for all four wheels. 

Toyota Corolla Cross Engine & Drivetrain

Propelling all three 2024 Corolla Cross HEV variants is a 1.8-liter gasoline engine paired with an electric motor. In total, this hybrid system can output 121 hp and 142 Nm of torque. Power is sent to its front wheels through a CVT. 

To optimize its power and efficiency, the updated Corolla Cross features a drive mode selector. Its available modes include Eco, Power, and electric vehicle (EV) modes. 

Available color options for the 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross HEV include Emotional Red 2 or Platinum White Pearl Mice combined with an Attitude Black Mica top. These two are only available for the GR-S. 

The V and G trims meanwhile, may come in Platinum White Pearl Mica, Celestite Gray Metallic, or Metal Stream Metallic. 

The 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross HEV one-ups most of its rivals by having an entirely hybrid-powered trim lineup. It isn’t the most powerful in its class mind you, but this might go a long way in terms of fuel efficiency. 

Toyota Corolla Cross 2024 Price List

 Variants Price
Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid G CVT ₱1,498,000
Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid G CVT (Platinum White Pearl Mica)
CVT
₱1,513,000
Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid V CVT ₱1,763,000
Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid V CVT (Platinum White Pearl Mica) ₱1,778,000
Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid GR-S CVT ₱1,917,000
Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid GR-S CVT (Emotional Red Two-tone) ₱1,922,000

Toyota Corolla Cross Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Hybrid powertrain is standard
  • Plenty of standard safety equipment
  • Feature-rich interior
  • Stylish exterior

Cons

  • All trims could’ve used the 360-degree view camera 
  • Only GR-S gets roof rails

Toyota Corolla Cross Q&A

1. What engine will the Toyota Corolla 2024 use?

The Toyota Corolla 2024 will have 2 Dynamic Force engine options: a 1.5-liter and a 2.0-liter.

2. How many seats are there in a Toyota Cross?

Corolla Cross 2024 has 5 seats.

3. How much does Corolla Cross 2024 in the Philippines cost? 

The price of the Toyota Corolla Cross 2024 ranges from ₱1.498 - 1.917 Million, depending on the variant.

4. What will the Toyota Corolla 2024 make different?

The Toyota Corolla 2024 will have safety feature improvements, which are front junction support and Proactive Driving Assist.

5. Is the 2024 Corolla cross a hybrid?

Yes, it is, but not quite right. The new crossover offers users 2 engine options with different experiences: The G variant is equipped with a 1.8-liter gasoline engine that delivers 138 hp and 172 Nm of torque. The V Hybrid and the GR-S variant are powered by a 1.8-liter gasoline hybrid engine that generates a maximum power output of 120 hp and 142 Nm of torque.

₱ 1,498,000 - ₱ 1,917,000

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Joseph Paolo Estabillo

Joseph Paolo Estabillo

Author

Joseph holds a degree in Journalism from the University of the Philippines Diliman and has been writing professionally since 1999. He has written episodes for CNN Philippines' motoring show Drive, and has worked on corporate projects for MG Philippines and Pilipinas Shell. Aside from being Philkotse.com’s Content Lead, he also writes content for numerous car dealerships in the U.S., spanning multiple brands such as Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Maserati, among others.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kapatilya

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