Motor distributor Toyota Kenya has launched the Corolla Cross in the Kenyan market, a Corolla series crossover from the traditional sedan to a new compact SUV, which will start retailing from KES4.3 million.
The development of the Toyota Corolla Cross has been inspired by a key phrase, “Corolla meets SUV” and has been designed to blend ‘sturdy’ SUV design cues with a smooth, quiet ride and “exceptional comfort” on all Kenyan roads.
Toyota Kenya Managing Director Arvinder Reel said, “Corolla Cross is a status symbol that combines the key elements of an SUV: strength and functionality. We would like to assure our customers that this car is a comfortable, reliable, and safe solution for those looking for high-economy vehicles with exceptional drivability.”
Since its launch in Japan in 1966, the Corolla series is Toyota’s best-selling car, having sold more than 48 million units in over 150 countries around the world.
“The Corolla has continued to evolve in line with the needs of the times and of the regions, it is sold in. By adding a new model to the Corolla series to suit the growing demand of SUVs, the enhanced Corolla line-up enables customers to select the model that better suits their diverse lifestyles and life stages,” said Mr. Reel.
Corolla Cross offers a 1.8-liter engine with a CVT transmission. The Corolla Cross uses a new torsion-beam suspension design that has been developed to offer a “stable, cushioned ride”. Built based on Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, the Corolla Cross is able to achieve high-quality performance, a comfortable ride, and outstanding quietness.
“The goal of TNGA is to dramatically improve the basic performance and marketability of Toyota vehicles by redeveloping powertrain units and vehicle platforms and reconceiving overall vehicle optimization,” added Mr. Reel.
The new Corolla Cross lands in the Kenyan market with up to five seats inside and promises a more significant headroom for the rear passengers. For the instrument panel, the Corolla Cross takes more elements from the regular compact sibling. A floating-type infotainment unit was installed on top of the center stack.
At 4460mm long, 1825mm wide, and 1620mm tall, the Corolla Cross has a 103.9-inch wheelbase and a 487-liter boot. The car is set to give Kenyans a feel of being compact yet comfortable as they drive around the country.
The Corolla Cross will be available across Toyota Kenya’s network of 31 outlets countrywide, with customers enjoying a 3 year/100,000 km manufacturer warranty.
