NEWS & SPECIFICATION UPDATE

THE COROLLA CROSS IN SUMMARY

The all-new Corolla Cross is family practical C-SUV that completes the modern Corolla range, giving Toyota an even stronger presence in the European C-segment and the market’s widest range of SUV models. Its introduction alongside the established Corolla hatchback, sedan and Touring Sports shows that there truly is “a Corolla for everyone.”

Developed with Toyota’s TNGA philosophy, it is constructed on the well-proven GA-C platform and offers the essential qualities that have made the Corolla an enduring success. Corolla remains the world’s best-selling automotive nameplate, with more than 50 million global sales across 55 years and 12 generations.

The addition of the Corolla Cross supports Toyota’s sales ambitions in the highly competitive European C-segment.

The new model benefits from the latest advances Toyota has made in hybrid performance, the application of digital technologies and the scope of its safety systems. T-Mate for Corolla Cross combines the latest generation Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) package, which for the 1st time can be updated Over-The-Air and other active driving and parking assistance systems to not only make driving easier and safer, but also to protect all vehicle occupants as well as other road users in various scenarios.

This is the first model featuring the fifth generation of Toyota’s hybrid electric technology which delivers both more power and greater efficiency. The drivetrain – offered with 1.8 and 2.0-litre hybrid petrol engines – has been calibrated for more rewarding driveability matching European drive scenarios, with a closer and more natural relationship between the driver’s use of the throttle and the car’s acceleration. The proven dynamic quality of the GA-C platform adds to the driving rewards.

The 1.8-litre version* is exclusively front-wheel drive; the 2.0-litre offers the option of Toyota’s intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD-i) which has been upgraded with a more powerful (40 DIN hp and 84 Nm) rear electric motor to provide even more secure performance when cornering and pulling away on low-grip surfaces.

The Corolla Cross will appeal to young families who seek a practical and versatile vehicle that is easy to live with day-to-day. The exterior projects a robust Toyota SUV look while the interior is a light and open space. The boot is capacious and designed for easy access.

The model marks the first appearance of Toyota’s new 12.3-inch fully digital combimeter (standard on all versions) which the driver can personalise both for content and appearance. Similarly, there is also a new Toyota Smart Connect multimedia and infotainment system with faster response, a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, access to connected services and easy smartphone integration, provided as standard.

HYBRID ELECTRIC TECHNOLOGY AND TOYOTA’S COMMITMENT TO CARBON NEUTRALITY

Toyota is committed to carbon neutrality with the elimination of CO2 emissions from the vehicles it manufacturers and its global business operations. To achieve this ambitious goal, it recognises that a single solution is not the answer: diverse options need to be provided to suit the diverse needs and circumstances of people around the world.

Issues such as the availability of energy sources, in particular renewables, local energy infrastructure, affordability and individual mobility requirements need to be addressed. To help ensure that meaningful emissions reductions can be delivered on the journey to zero carbon, Toyota has a multi-technology strategy, applying the leadership in electrified vehicle engineering it has established over the past quarter of a century.

Toyota has made huge investments in battery technology, not just to power a new generation of battery electric vehicles, such as the new bZ4X SUV, but also to support alternative low carbon solutions including the latest generation self-charging hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) such as the new Corolla Cross. These affordable and accessible models have an important role to play in helping maintain and accelerate the pace of CO2 reductions as society transitions to zero emission mobility. By 2025 Toyota intends HEVs and PHEVs to account for 80% of its new vehicle sales in Western Europe, with 10% being zero emission vehicles (ZEVs). By 2030, the aim is for ZEVs to command 50% of sales in the region and for Toyota’s manufacturing plants to be carbon neutral; five years later Toyota’s target is for 100% of new car sales to be ZEVs.

COROLLA CROSS: SUV DESIGN FOR EVERYDAY PRACTICALITY

Exterior design, tailored for Europe

The Corolla Cross projects a powerful, robust SUV look that has been tailored specifically to appeal to European customers.

At the front, its solid character and Toyota SUV family status are witnessed in the prominent double trapezoidal grille and lower bumper treatment. Slim, bi-LED headlights are provided on all grades, with Mid+ and High grade additionally equipped with sequential turn indicators and LED light guides. At the rear, the light clusters have a strong three-dimensional quality, wrapping around the rear wings and back door.

The robust SUV character is further expressed by the flared wings which contrast with the tapering body, while the clear cabin profile expresses the car’s interior spaciousness. Roof rails and rear privacy glass are included in the Mid+ and High-grade specifications.

The Corolla Cross’ dimensions place it at the heart of the highly competitive European C-SUV segment; within Toyota’s model range, its sits between the C-HR and RAV4 in terms of size. The vehicle is 4,460 mm long, 1,825 mm wide, 1,620 mm high and has a 2,640 mm wheelbase.

The wheel designs include a 17-inch alloy with a silver finish and tool-like graphic that accentuates the rim, adding the strong design impact. The 18-inch wheels have a contrast bright machined and dark grey finish and a design that entwines the rim and spokes.

Interior design focused on practicality

The interior is designed for everyday practicality. It is a light, open space with good visibility for everyone on board, with large side windows and high driver’s eye-point. The open feel can be enhanced with a panoramic roof with electric blind, offered as an option on all grades.

The load space dimensions are generous with access made easy thanks to a wide opening, 720 mm load height (one of the lowest among the car’s main competitors) and the option of a power back door with kick sensor. Load capacity is 433 litres, extending to a maximum 1,337 litres with the rear seats folded.

There is generous headroom throughout and the large door apertures make access comfortable, for example if you need to lift a child seat in or out of the car. This family-friendly thinking has also been applied to the rear doors which have a curved profile so there is more knee room to reach in to attend to a youngster. Adult rear seat passengers will appreciate the recline adjustment for the seatbacks.

There are multiple storage points throughout the cabin, together with a USB-A port and wireless charger in the front console and two USB-C ports for rear passengers.

FIFTH GENERATION TOYOTA HYBRID ELECTRIC POWERTRAINS

The Corolla Cross is the first model globally to use the fifth generation of Toyota’s self-charging hybrid electric system. A programme of constant improvement in the 25 years since the technology made its market debut has produced a system that is more powerful and more rewarding to drive, yet also more efficient in terms of fuel economy and emissions.

Performance

The new model is available with 1.8* and 2.0-litre powertrains with front-wheel drive, plus optional intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD-i) for the 2.0-litre. The 1.8 system benefits from a 15% increase in output, to 140 DIN hp/103 kW, giving 0-100 km/h acceleration in 9.9 seconds with 112 – 121 g/km CO2 emissions. Maximum power for the 2.0 system is up 8% to 197 DIN hp/145 kW, cutting the 0-100 km/h to 7,6 seconds for FWD and to 7,5 seconds for AWD while keeping CO2 emissions within a range between 113 to 120 g/km and between 119 to 127 g/km with AWD-i.

* 1.8-litre version initially only available in Israel and Turkey.

Hybrid system design

The changes introduced for the fifth generation hybrid electric system include components that weigh less and are more compact – qualities that help maintain efficiency in tandem with the increase in output – but which maintain the reliability that has become a hallmark of Toyota’s technology.

The system uses a new power control unit (PCU) reduces the level of electrical losses in the system (-14% 1.8, -6% 2.0) helping maintain fuel efficiency. The unit also runs quieter and, in the AWD-i model, incorporates the rear PCU, saving further space and weight.

The PCU is installed directly above a new transaxle that is 15% lighter than before thanks to the use of new materials and which uses new, compact, high-output drive motors. Using low-viscosity oil reduces internal friction and adds to the all-round improvement in efficiency.

Hybrid battery

The new lithium-ion hybrid battery is smaller and lighter but has a higher output – qualities that contribute to both the car’s dynamic performance and its fuel efficiency. Compared to the battery pack deployed in the previous system, weight is down by -14% and output up by 14%. Toyota has optimised the battery’s cooling system to secure quieter performance and longer battery life.

A more rewarding driving experience

The advances made with the fifth generation hybrid system include improvements in driveability. Notably, the driver experiences a better relationship between their use of the throttle and vehicle response with more consistent, predictable and controllable performance. A better acceleration feel makes for more confident driving.

This has been achieved by calibrating the throttle better to suit familiar European driving scenarios, such as stop-start traffic and frequent changes in speed limits. The acceleration also adapts to up and downhill driving, synchronising the engine speed with the driver’s inputs to give a more natural feel and easier drive. Running at lower rpm also makes the system quieter when driving at highway speeds.

More powerful intelligent all-wheel drive – AWD-i

The intelligent all-wheel drive system available for the 2.0-litre Corolla Cross is an evolution of the technology featured on the Toyota Prius and Yaris Cross models, with a six-fold increase in the rear electric motor’s power to 41 DIN hp and an impressive improvement of its maximum torque output to 84 Nm.

The system provides optimal drive torque distribution between the front and rear axles in line with the conditions, giving secure pulling away on slippery surfaces or driving over lose ground, and more stable performance when cornering, lane-changing or accelerating from low speeds. In normal driving, power is directed only to the front wheels, preserving fuel efficiency.

Suspension, braking and steering

The electric power steering has been calibrated with a focus on initial reaction to a driver’s input to give a light, crisp feel. Control and assist torque are provided in line with the degree of steering force.

The suspension systems – front MacPherson struts and rear trailing wishbones – are optimised to for ride comfort with less shock and vibration when travelling over uneven surfaces.

The new braking system balances efficiency with a rigid feel. Disc brakes are featured front and rear.

TOYOTA T-MATE SAFETY AND DRIVER ASSISTANCE

Safety is a top priority for both Toyota and its customers – in particular the motorists with families who are the key market for the new Corolla Cross. This new model demonstrates the increasing breadth of safety and driver assistance provided by Toyota T-Mate, from greater accident risk detection and active safety functions provided by the latest generation of Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), to help when driving or parking. Should the vehicle suffer an impact, its highly rigid construction and comprehensive passive safety features provide robust protection for everyone on board.

Enhanced Toyota Safety Sense (TSS)

The latest developments of Toyota Safety Sense have brought significant improvements to many of its accident detection systems and added new functions that increase safety and provide additional peace of mind. With the benefit of over-the-air updates, software can now be upgraded automatically, with no need for the car to be taken into a service centre.

The Corolla Cross is one of the first models to adopt a new front camera and radar that cover a much wider field ahead of the car, with extended reach both left/right and up/down. The distance of forward detection has been doubled compared to the scope of the previous hardware. There is also earlier detection of objects close to the car and a wider range of potential hazards can be picked out, including motorcycles and roadside objects.

This increased detection capability makes the Pre-Collision System (PCS) effective in more urban traffic scenarios, including recognition of potential head-to-head collisions. The Intersection Collision Avoidance Support can now identify approaching traffic across two lanes, as well as cyclists and vehicles cutting in suddenly from the side.

Improvement to the Emergency Steering Assist (ESA) helps the driver keep the car within its traffic line when trying to avoid a hazard such as a pedestrian, cyclist, parked car, or – thanks to the detection enhancements – motorcyclist. There’s also a safeguard against sudden, unintended use of the accelerator when moving at low speed, with a new Acceleration Suppression function.

Full Range Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) has been revised to give faster response to operate in a way that feels more natural to the driver. For example, thanks to earlier detection, when vehicles enter the car’s lane there is more gradual deceleration. The driver can select a longer vehicle-to-vehicle setting to establish a more comfortable gap and the ACC’s curve speed reduction function will activate earlier, giving smoother speed adjustment when driving through a bend.

Other improvements include Overtake Prevention Support, which prevents unintentional overtaking on the wrong side of a vehicle (“undertaking”); and Preliminary Deceleration/Turn Signal Linked Control, which helps the driver safely re-join the traffic lane in-between cars.

Lane Trace Assist (LTA) has been also improved to act more naturally.

First, its Lane Departure Alert (LDA) w/Steering Control has been adjusted so that it recognises when the driver is trying to avoid an obstacle and will temporarily cancel lane departure prevention, if it judges that the driver has intentionally crossed a lane marking to avoid an obstacle such as pedestrian or other road users.

Secondly, its Lane Centring function has been improved, so that when passing by other road users, the car will re-position itself to put safe distance versus vehicles driving on adjacent lane, in case they drive close to own car – that will give the extra peace of mind, when using the function on the highway.

When the ACC and LTA are operating, Emergency Driving Stop System (EDSS) will monitor driver inputs; if these stop over a certain time, it will sound a warning and, if the driver doesn’t respond, bring the car slowly to a stop, activate the hazard light and unlock the doors to allow easy access to emergency services.

There are also improvements in Road Sign Assist (RSA). It can now be used to easily adjust the speed limiter to match the traffic sign info. This can be useful when driving near schools or pedestrian zones.

For the 1st time, TSS can be updated Over-the-Air with latest features and improvements. One of the main features that will be enabled using OTA is Proactive Driving Assist (PDA). Proactive Driving Assist (PDA)** will include Obstacle Anticipation Assist (OAA), Deceleration Assist (DA) and Steering Assist (SA) which

Obstacle Anticipation Assist (OAA) detects the danger to obstacles at an early stage. And it is a function that supports driving without getting too close to obstacles so as not to increase the risk by providing steering and/or braking support.

Deceleration Assist (DA) supports smooth deceleration when accelerator is released, under the condition of necessity of deceleration, such as preceding vehicle or approaching to the curve.

Steering Assist (SA) detects the curve ahead and adjusts the steering assist force to facilitate proper steering.

**Will be available with the 2023 OTA update

T-Mate parking and driving assistance

The Corolla Cross’ Toyota T-Mate functions help make parking and driving easier and safer. The High grade is featuring the semi-autonomous Toyota Teammate Advanced Park system, which uses an array of 4 Panoramic View Monitor cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors to move the vehicle smoothly into a parking space, with the driver only required to check the surroundings and operate the shift when prompted. The system can memorise regularly used spots, such as home and office parking, and is able to manoeuvre front-first in and out of series parking spaces.

T-Mate supports the driver with functions such as the Panoramic View Monitor (PVM), giving an all-round view of the vehicle’s immediate surroundings when manoeuvring at low speed; Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Automatic Braking (RCTAB), warning of traffic and hazards when overtaking or reversing; and Rear Seat Reminder System (RSRS) – an alert that sounds, if driver opened the rear door before driving off to prompt them to check, if nothing or no one is left behind before exiting the car – a child or item of luggage for example.

There is an extra layer of protection when getting out the car with Safe Exit Assist (SEA). This uses the Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) radar to check for any traffic (including cyclists) approaching from the rear, flashing a warning light if anything is detected. If an attempt is made to open a door, further warning lights flash in the multi-information display and a buzzer is sounded.

Passive safety

If the car is involved in a collision, robust protection is provided by a highly rigid body structure – a key benefit from the TNGA-C platform – that effectively absorbs and channels impact forces. Strategic use is made of strong but lightweight ultra-high-tensile materials throughout the body and reinforcements are provided in key areas, strengthened with multiple weld points.

The cabin is equipped as standard with eight SRS airbags, including a front centre airbag that deploys from the side of the passenger seat to help prevent contact between front occupants during a collision.

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES FOR AN ENHANCED USER EXPERIENCE

The Toyota’s TNGA-C platform has allowed the Corolla Cross to adopt a new electronics platform – one that’s also being featured in the forthcoming revised Corolla hatchback, sedan and Touring Sports models. This is key to the car’s powerful digital package, supporting the car’s fifth generation hybrid system, latest generation Toyota Safety Sense features, the new digital combimeter, the Toyota Smart Connect multimedia and information system and the data communications module (DCM).

New digital cockpit

The Corolla Cross is the first Toyota model to use a new 12.3-inch digital combimeter in the driver’s instrument binnacle, provided as standard on all versions.

Its ergonomic design maximises the space available with high-visibility, easy-to-read information and intuitive control. Flexibility is designed-in, so the driver can adjust the content, including the number of dials and the information shown in each section of the central multi-information display. The combimeter can also be personalised with different themes: Casual, Smart, Tough Sporty. Changes are simple to make, using toggle switches on the steering wheel.

Toyota Motor Europe was closely involved in the combimeter’s development, to ensure it meets the tastes and requirements of European customers.

Toyota Smart Connect multimedia

Connectivity has become a prime customer requirement, with people wanting a seamless, always-connected experience when in their car. The new Toyota Smart Connect system addresses this priority with a faster, more responsive multimedia system that is future-proofed with over-the-air updates to expand functionality or introduce new services.

Featured as standard on all Corolla Cross models, it comes with a 10.5-inch high-definition touchscreen display. The package includes cloud-based navigation with real-time traffic event information, an on-board voice agent; and smartphone integration via (wireless) Apple CarPlay and (wired connection) Android Auto. Four years’ subscription to services is included the Corolla Cross’ sale price.

There is also the option of Toyota Smart Connect + which uses an even faster processor, and provides an embedded navigation system, plus useful functions including fixed speed camera locations and weather alerts.

MyT app

The MyT app gives access to useful information such as driving data, hybrid coaching and car status, plus a “find my car” function and remote activation of the hazard lights. With the Smart Connect Pack, additional remote functions are added, including door locking/unlocking and window opening/closing, together with remote operation of the climate control to defrost the screen, heat or cool the cabin prior to the journey, and active steering wheel and seat heaters.

*update from Toyota Europe