2022 JDM Toyota Corolla Cross with new face and AWD option | Drive, Interior & Exterior
2022 JDM Toyota Corolla Cross gets new face, AWD option
The Toyota Corolla Cross for Japan gets more than just a different face
Toyota has been busy launching special editions of the Corolla Cross of late. Aside from the Modellista version first launched in Thailand last week, the company has revealed the new GR Sport version of the Corolla Cross. For now, it seems the GR Sport is only available in Taiwan.
Surprisingly, the crossover has yet to make its official debut in its home market. The ASEAN market (including the Philippines) was one of the first to receive the Corolla-based crossover. But after a long wait, the Corolla Cross is now available in Japan.
This is the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross for the Japanese market, and boy does it look sleek. First spotted being transported on a car carrier (and in a parking lot), the crossover gets a different look for the Japanese market.
Starting with the most obvious, the JDM Corolla Cross features a revised front end that consists of a unique set of LED headlights, a larger lower air intake, and a different front lip. But perhaps the biggest change the crossover received is the new grille that features the brand’s signature ‘C’ logo for the Corolla in Japan.
Other portions of the Corolla Cross remain the same. However, we did notice that the LED taillights received new graphics while the rear bumper gets additional silver trim for a sleeker look.
Inside, the design looks similar to the ones sold here in the Philippines. The only noticeable difference the JDM version has over the PH-spec models is the placement of the steering wheel. The touchscreen infotainment, leather seats, automatic climate control panel, three-spoke multi-function steering wheel, and gear selector are all the same.
Under the hood, the Japan-spec Corolla Cross is also powered by the familiar 1.8-liter 2ZR-FXE hybrid engine. It has a combined output of 122 PS with 142 Nm of torque and comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) only.
But unlike other markets which only get the Corolla Cross as a front-wheel-drive (FWD) crossover, the JDM version can be specified with all-wheel-drive (AWD). Called the E-Four system, the electric AWD system helps in providing better acceleration when driving on snow or slippery surfaces. If customers opt for the E-Four Corolla Cross, the rear torsion beams will be upgraded to a double-wishbone setup.
The JDM Corolla Cross is now on sale and starts at JPY 1,999,000 (around PHP 909,115). Don’t expect this particular version to make its way outside of Japan as the PH-spec Corolla Cross is sourced from Thailand. Still, we’re hoping Toyota offers the JDM look outside of its home market.
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