Toyota Corolla Cross receives a different face in Japan

The Toyota Corolla Cross has already gone on sale in several ASEAN markets as well as in the United States, but is noticeably absent in Japan. Previous reports suggest that the TNGA-C-based crossover will be launched in Toyota’s domestic market later this month and will look quite different from the version we get in Malaysia.

Recent photos posted on Instagram appear to confirm the latter, as the JDM (Japanese domestic market) version gets a completely different front fascia featuring a considerably smaller upper grille flanked by redesigned LED headlamps.

Meanwhile, the lower apron gets a huge air intake that is similar to our Corolla Cross, accompanied by a mesh insert and fog lamps tucked into the corners. This also sees a reprofiled bumper that no longer comes with pronounced creases ahead to the front wheel arches.

The sides appear to have been left untouched and the example seen here is wearing a set of wheels that have a design reminiscent of those offered with the Modellista package in Thailand. As for the rear, we do see some revisions like a new look for the taillights and unlike our version, the model badge placement is similar to the UDSM (United States domestic market) model.

The blue-accented emblems suggest that the Corolla Cross will be offered as a hybrid in Japan, although there are no official figures just yet. In Thailand, the Corolla Cross’ hybrid powertrain is made up of a 2ZR-FXE 1.8 litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with 98 PS and 142 Nm of torque that is joined by an electric motor rated at 72 PS and 163 Nm for a total system output of 122 PS. Drive goes to the front wheels via an e-CVT.

Of the two looks for the Corolla Cross, which one do you find more appealing? The one we currently have here, or the one that is set to go on sale in Japan?

GALLERY: 2021 Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8V (Malaysia market)