In mid-August, Toyota unveiled the Corolla Cross in Thailand, a mid-size SUV positioned between the Yaris Cross and the RAV4. This sport utility vehicle, like other models from the automaker, is expected to be produced in Brazil as early as 2021.

This model is yet another SUV that aims to spice up the already saturated SUV market and has an ace up its sleeve: the well-known... Toyota after-sales serviceFor years, the brand has been recognized by Brazilians as an excellent provider of after-sales service for automobiles. 

Although the brands won't admit it, like the Volkswagen Taos, Toyota's new SUV is more than just an attempt to dethrone the Jeep Compass. 

Fulfilling our mission to keep you informed about all things car-related, today we bring you everything and a little more about the new Corolla Cross. Ready to learn more about this latest release?

As many may already imagine, the similarities between the sedan and the SUV go beyond just the name. 

The SUV is entirely derived from the sedan. However, the sharing of components isn't as obvious. The Cross uses the TNGA modular platform, which is also used in the RAV4, Prius, and of course, the classic Corolla. 

In addition to the name and platform, the Cross will also use the same powertrain found in the sedan. 

If, where the eyes cannot see, there is a sharing of components on the outside, then things are a little different. 

The design of the Toyota Corolla Cross features some subtle references to its sedan sibling, although more attentive eyes may notice inspirations from the RAV4 and even the C-HR. 

According to information from own brand There will be two accessory package options called Urban Sport Style and Adventure Style. In addition, there will be seven color options to suit all tastes. 

Like the sedan, the SUV will feature the Toyota Safety Sense driver assistance suite. 

This package includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and lane change alert, collision warning, blind spot sensors, and cross-traffic alert. 

Looking inside, even the most discerning eye will quickly notice that the SUV's dashboard is very similar to that of the Corolla sedan. The reddish (somewhat brown) leather upholstery on the seats is unlikely to be offered in Brazil. 

Another noteworthy feature is the multimedia center with a nine-inch touchscreen system that supports both Android and Apple. 

In terms of standard features, the model includes 7 airbags, digital air conditioning with temperature zones, electric tailgate opening with sensor activation under the vehicle, driver's seat with electric adjustments, and air conditioning vents and USB ports for passengers in the rear seat. 

In the Thai market, where the Toyota Corolla Cross was launched, there are two engine options:

A 1.8-liter gasoline engine with 140 horsepower and a hybrid configuration.

In Brazil, the engines should be the same as those used in the Corolla sedan. Therefore, the SUV should have a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine with up to 177 horsepower, while the hybrid powertrain should be restricted to the top-of-the-line version.

The transmission is expected to be the CVT, which features 10 simulated gears and is highly praised by Corolla Sedan owners. 

According to the manufacturer's Asian headquarters, the SUV with the 1.8 engine has a combined average fuel consumption of 15.4 km/L in urban and highway driving. 

Already hybrid version Fuel consumption decreases considerably and the combined average increases to 23.2 km/L. 

Due to recent changes in Brazilian gasoline We expect very similar fuel consumption for the Toyota Corolla Cross here. 

As we mentioned at the beginning of the article, the Corolla Cross should come to compete with the Jeep Compass, and we reaffirm this because of its dimensions:

The SUV measures 4.46 meters in length, 1.82 meters in width, with a wheelbase of 2.64 meters and a height of 1.61 meters. These dimensions are exactly the same as the Compass. 

The trunk has a capacity of 487 liters with the repair kit or 440 liters when fitted with a temporary spare tire. 

After all this, you must be thinking: Okay, but how much will this new SUV cost? 

If the pricing ratio practiced in Thailand remains the same, the prices of the Corolla Cross in Brazil should remain in a range between R$135,000 and R$165,000. 

The fact that it is produced at the Sorocaba (SP) factory, where Yaris and Etios are also produced, is a positive aspect since import taxes will not need to be paid, which reduces the final price of the vehicle. 

Toyota had plans to begin production of the SUV in early 2021, but has yet to say whether the coronavirus pandemic will delay the model's launch, as it has delayed many others so far this year.

The SUV market remains strong and is expected to become even more competitive next year with the arrival of models such as the Corolla Cross, the Volkswagen Taos, and the Ford Territory.

For consumers, this is good because, among so many models and brands, most will offer some kind of benefit, such as more affordable prices, standard features, better payment terms, or cheaper maintenance. 

For those of us who are car lovers, all we can do is wait, right? 

Now that you know everything about the Toyota Corolla Cross, we want to know your opinion about the model. Leave a comment telling us if you liked or disliked the new SUV from the Japanese automaker. 

And since we're talking about the SUV category, how about learning about a revival reincarnated by Ford? We're talking about the new Ford Bronco, which should also arrive in Brazil in 2021.

To learn all about it, just click the link below!