Toyota working on a longer-wheelbase Corolla Cross SUV for India
What's the story
Japanese auto giant Toyota is working on a longer-wheelbase Corolla Cross for the Indian market. The company is slowly expanding its SUV portfolio on our shores. The standard version of the four-wheeler is one of the most popular offerings for the brand in various global markets. With a seven-seater variant, the automaker is now planning to rival the segment leader, the Mahindra XUV700.
Context
Why does this story matter?
Based on Toyota's critically-acclaimed modular TNGA-C architecture, the Corolla Cross is one of the best-selling SUVs for the automaker in the US. The brand updated the vehicle with its fifth-generation hybrid system which helps deliver better fuel efficiency while complying with strict emission norms. With a rise in demand for SUVs in India, the company is now planning to introduce its longer-wheelbase version here.
Exteriors
The SUV will sport swept-back LED headlights and designer wheels
The upcoming Toyota Corolla Cross's longer-wheelbase version will flaunt a muscular hood, a sleek chrome-surrounded grille, swept-back LED headlights with integrated DRLs, and a wide air dam. On the sides, the SUV will be flanked by roof rails, indicator-mounted ORVMs, and dual-tone designer wheels. Wrap-around LED taillights, a shark-fin antenna, and a roof-mounted spoiler will grace the rear end of the four-wheeler.
Information
It will be backed by a hybrid powertrain
The technical details of the longer-wheelbase Toyota Corolla Cross are yet to be revealed. However, we expect the SUV to be powered by a 194hp, 2.0-liter, inline-four engine with a fifth-generation hybrid system. The motor should be mated to a CVT gearbox.
Interiors
The car will feature ventilated seats and a dual-tone dashboard
On the inside, we expect the upcoming Toyota Corolla Cross to feature a seven-seater cabin with a dual-tone dashboard, premium leatherette upholstery, ventilated front seats, an electric sunroof, automatic climate control, and a multifunctional steering wheel. The SUV is expected to pack the 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment unit from the standard model. Passengers' safety should be ensured by multiple airbags and ADAS functions.
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Toyota Corolla Cross: Pricing
Toyota is expected to announce the pricing and availability details of the longer-wheelbase Corolla Cross in India at its launch event. For reference, the standard Corolla Cross model starts at $23,060 (roughly Rs. 19.09 lakh) in the US market.