Three years since the global unveiling of the Toyota Corolla Cross, reports from India claim that a longer version, possibly with seven seats, is in the works.
Space for seven
Not seen or even mentioned until now, of course the newcomer will use the extended version of the TNGA-C platform that underpins the current five-seater model, which will have a knock-off effect from the overall length again (4 460mm) and wheelbase (2 640mm).
Based on the statement by Indian coachthe still unnamed model will take Yahoo on Hyundai Alcazar, known as Grand Creta in South Africa, and Jeep Meridan / Commander, and fill the gap between the standard Corolla Cross and Innova Hycross.
Can it change
Perhaps using the same approach as the Alcazar/Grand Creta, the long-wheelbase Corolla Cross will be better than the five-seater version as it could get an electric tailgate, possibly more features and better materials.
Also read: Frugal Corolla Cross Hybrid lives up to all the hype
At the same time, the Coach reports say that the rear doors will be lengthened, the rear facia redesigned and a slim D-pillar added to complete the exterior transformation from two to three seater rows.
Seats in the third row are expected to fold to the floor and not on the wall, which in recent years has become one of the main criticisms of Fortuner.
In addition to changes in the facia reported to distinguish it from the regular Corolla Cross, which sports a frontal design in Japan that is not present in other global versions, the full wheelbase model can also request a reworked suspension to adjust itself more than its cousin.
same power
Up front, engine choices can be carried over directly from the five-seat model. Currently, the global range of power units includes two petrol engines; The 103kW / 173Nm 1.8, 2.0-litre is rated between 125kW / 209Nm and 130kW / 210Nm and the hybrid pair, the 90kW 1.8 and 146kW 2.0-litre.
Drive is expected to go to the front wheels as standard, although all-wheel-drive can also feature as in Japan and the United States. The CVT is set to be the only transmission option.
Wuku is for South Africa
Despite its current absence, the importance of the long wheelbase Corolla Cross could extend beyond India and into South Africa as the local market currently lacks a three-seater SUV/crossover that sits below the Fortuner body-on-frame. .
As production of the Corolla Cross takes place at Toyota’s Prospecton Plant in Durban, the three-row model is more likely to be approved.