The highly-anticipated Toyota Corolla Cross, which is to be built at the brand's Prospecton plant, will be launched locally in just a few months time. The Japanese carmaker has revealed the engine line-up for SA-spec models, with two powertrain options listed.
A petrol powered model will feature Toyota's 103 kW/173 Nm 1.8-litre-litre engine, mated to 7-step CVT gearbox. Toyota points out that this is the same engine used in the Xs-trim Corolla, as well as the Corolla Quest. Known as the 2ZR-FE, the brand says it "prioritises refinement and strong mid-range torque delivery." The CVT offers a manual mode, but is tuned to offer maximum efficiency when left to its own devices. The Corolla Cross is rather frugal, with a claimed average fuel consumption of 6.8 L/100 km.
Using the same engine also found in the Prius, the Hybrid Corolla Cross is equipped with a 72 kW/142 Nm 1.8-litre petrol engine which, says Toyota, "boasts a world-beating thermal efficiency figure of 40% (for a petrol engine)." The electric motor system has also seen a number of technical advancements. While smaller in size, the battery has a higher energy density which means that power has remained the same. "It can absorb 28 per cent more energy in the same amount of time, for more rapid self-charging.
The electric motors themselves are smaller, but also have an improved power-to-weight ratio," says Toyota. With a supplementary 53 kW and 163 Nm of torque at full capacity, the overall system output is boosted to 90 kW. Toyota says that the combined power figure is not an "aggregate of the two power sources, due to transmission reduction losses"
The Hybrid model also utilises a CVT gearbox, while fuel economy is rated at a frugal 4.3 l/100 km.
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FAQ
Q: What engines are available in the Toyota Corolla Cross in South Africa?
The SA-made Toyota Corolla Cross comes with two engine options: a 103 kW/173 Nm 1.8-litre petrol engine with CVT gearbox consuming 6.8 L/100 km, and a hybrid version combining a 72 kW/142 Nm 1.8-litre petrol engine with electric motors for a total system output of 90 kW and fuel consumption of just 4.3 L/100 km.
Q: Is the Toyota Corolla Cross fuel efficient?
Absolutely, the Corolla Cross is quite frugal with the petrol model achieving 6.8 L/100 km and the hybrid variant delivering an impressive 4.3 L/100 km, making it one of the most efficient compact SUVs in its class.
Q: Does the Toyota Corolla Cross have a manual transmission option?
No, both the petrol and hybrid versions of the Corolla Cross come exclusively with a CVT automatic gearbox, though the CVT does offer a manual mode for those who prefer more control over gear changes.
Q: What is special about the hybrid system in the Corolla Cross?
The hybrid system uses the same efficient 1.8-litre engine from the Prius with 40% thermal efficiency, paired with improved electric motors that are smaller but more powerful, plus a higher energy density battery that can absorb 28% more energy for faster self-charging.
Q: When will the Toyota Corolla Cross be available in South Africa?
Toyota has confirmed the Corolla Cross will be launched locally in just a few months, with production taking place at their Prospecton plant in KwaZulu-Natal.
Should You Buy It?
While Toyota hasn't released official pricing yet, based on the engine specifications and local production advantage, the Corolla Cross should be positioned competitively in the compact SUV segment. The 1.8-litre petrol model will likely appeal to buyers wanting proven reliability and decent fuel economy, while the hybrid variant promises exceptional efficiency at 4.3 L/100 km for those willing to pay a premium. Given Toyota's reputation for bulletproof reliability, strong resale values, and the fact it's built right here in SA, the Corolla Cross looks set to be a smart buy when it arrives. Wait for the official pricing announcement before making your final decision, but this one's definitely worth considering if you're shopping for a practical, efficient family SUV.
