Spied: Japan-spec Toyota Corolla Cross to sport a different face from the rest of the world

The Toyota Corolla Cross has been undeniably making waves all around the world. With the crossover dominating its segment in Thailand and outselling its sedan counterpart in Brazil, will Japanese buyers accept it like the rest of the world?

Due for launch in September 2021, it appears that the Japanese-spec Corolla Cross might be receiving a different front design from the rest of the world. @ry_t0925 posted on Twitter a few photos of the crossover being transported on a trailer in Japan.

Also read: Toyota Corolla Cross spotted undisguised in Japan ahead of September 2021 launch

Compared to the ones overseas, the Japanese Corolla Cross sports a front design that matches the standard Corolla. In fact, the front also sports a Corolla “C” logo instead of the standard Toyota ellipses emblem.

This logo is exclusive to the Japanese-spec Corolla which aside from the crossover is available with 5 body variants. Besides the sedan, the Corolla is sold in Japan as a hatchback (Sport), a station wagon (Touring), and a B-segment sedan and wagon (Axio and Fielder).

Also read: 50 mil cars later, here are 12 reasons why the Toyota Corolla remains strong

While the front received an extensive makeover, the rear of the Japanese Corolla Cross appears similar to the ones sold overseas. However, it looks like the Japanese crossover could have the model inscription placed on the left of the boot like the American-spec Corolla Cross.

Also read: Selling fast in Malaysia, Toyota Corolla Cross debuts in the USA - 2.0 Dynamic Force engine, AWD available!

What powers the Japanese Corolla Cross remains under wraps for now but it is very likely that the crossover should have a hybrid powertrain available. Depending on the market, the Corolla Cross is powered by 1.8-litre petrol or petrol-hybrid engines as well as a 2.0-litre Dynamic Force engine.

Also read: Toyota Corolla Cross is heading to Japan in Q3 2021, to rival Honda HR-V

Just like in the American-spec Corolla Cross, the Japanese version could also be available with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant which is essential to overcome the snowy roads in winter.

Besides, the Corolla Cross heading for the Land of the Rising Sun won’t be built in Thailand. Instead, it is very likely to be built at Toyota’s Takaoka plant in Aichi with a monthly production of 7,000 units.

Also read: Toyota Corolla Cross: Japan production to start soon, will rival all-new HR-V

When launched, the Corolla Cross will be facing the Honda Vezel which is the Japanese name for the HR-V. The Vezel has been very popular in Japan ever since the latest third-generation was launched in February. With the waiting period stretching nearly a year, perhaps some impatient buyers would like to cross over for a Corolla Cross instead?

Also read: All-new 2021 Honda HR-V's Japanese waiting list extends to 1 year