2024 Toyota Corolla Cross: Thai-spec refresh to preview PH update?

It’s been a little over three years since the Toyota Corolla Cross was launched in the Philippines. At the time, Toyota had the freshest compact crossover in the segment and it came with a hybrid option. But now, it’s facing heavy competition from all-new models like the Honda HR-V, Subaru Crosstrek, the Nissan Kicks e-Power, and even its own sibling, the Yaris Cross HEV.

With all those aforementioned models offering a longer list of standard equipment, it’s about time for the Toyota Corolla Cross to get a much-needed update. And this year, it might actually happen.

A report from Autolife Thailand says the Corolla Cross is getting a minor model change in Thailand, and it’s apparently coming this February. Some of the updates are things that the European and Japanese market versions of the Corolla Cross already have, which were launched much later than the current Philippine-spec version.

The updates could include a new design for both headlights and taillights as well as new alloy wheels on the outside. Inside, the Corolla Cross could get a 12.3-inch full digital screen on its instrument cluster, a bigger 10.5-inch touchscreen unit for infotainment that comes with wireless support for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and wireless charging.

In terms of functionality, Toyota may add a panoramic sunroof, and replace the foot-operated parking brake with an electronic parking brake with auto brake hold to the Corolla Cross' list of equipment. For safety purposes, the Corolla Cross could now get up to 8 airbags, as well as an improved version of Toyota’s Safety Sense that adds an all-speed active cruise control.

As for its engine options, Toyota is likely to retain the 1.8-liter gas and 1.8-liter hybrid according to the report. However, the latter may get a new battery pack that could boost power and allow the Corolla Cross to drive on pure electric power for longer.

The Thailand update of the Corolla Cross is one to watch out for, as Toyota Motor Philippines sources out its units from the Land of Smiles. Should things go as planned, then we may see TMP launch the updated Corolla Cross sometime this year.