Priced equivalent to RM 87k onwards, Toyota Frontlander and twin Toyota Corolla Cross makes Chinese debut

Toyota’s joint-venture companies have introduced both the Toyota Frontlander and the Toyota Corolla Cross on display at the ongoing 2021 Guangzhou Auto Show.

Before we dive into the specifics, allow us to clarify. The Toyota Frontlander is basically a Japan-spec Toyota Corolla Cross but with a different name. The Frontlander is sold by GAC Toyota, one of Toyota’s joint-venture companies in China.

Meanwhile, the Toyota Corolla Cross namesake is sold by FAW Toyota, the other joint-venture company that also manufacture Toyota cars in China. The Corolla Cross in China is the global version that is also sold in Malaysia.

And yes, both cars are sold side by side with each other as China’s market is big enough that both cars can easily rake in sales despite being the same model.

Also read: Chinese buyers get to choose 2 Toyota Corolla Cross designs, which is your favourite?

While the Toyota Frontlander has confirmed prices, FAW Toyota has yet to announce the prices for the Corolla Cross.

Priced from CNY 135,000 to CNY 175,000 (~RM 88,663 to RM 115,000), the Frontlander comes with a choice of five variants.

GAC Toyota did not make many changes to the Frontlander compared to the global version. The SUV still sports a similar look as the Corolla Cross introduced in Japan back in September.

From the larger diamond grille to the chunky grille frame and the familiar rear end, the Frontlander looks largely the same. The only obvious difference is the new dual-tone wheels compared to the Corolla Cross launched in Japan.

The interior is much the same as well. The all-black affair features leather seats and a touchscreen display takes centre stage.

For now, the Toyota Frontlander will only be offered with one engine option: a 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated engine that dispenses 171 PS. This is different from the Corolla Cross in Malaysia which is powered by a 1.8-litre engine that produces 139 PS and 172 Nm. 

Also read: Toyota Corolla Cross launched in Japan – Hybrid doubles as a powerbank, adds panoramic sunroof

The engine is paired to a CVT-type transmission that sends power to the front wheels.

No word yet on whether GAC Toyota will introduce alternative hybrid engine options.

While it might not certain that GAC Toyota will launch a hybrid Frontlander, environmentally conscious car buyers can opt for the Toyota Corolla Cross sold by FAW Toyota instead, which is expected to offer a hybrid version when the SUV goes on sale.

Like the Frontlander, the Corolla Cross sold by FAW Toyota is also powered by a 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated engine. Codenamed M20E, the engine is capable of 171 PS and is also paired to a CVT.

Order books for the Corolla Cross are expected to open in 2022. Meanwhile, GAC Toyota opened registration of interests for the Frontlander in early October and deliveries are expected to start soon.

Also read: 2022 Toyota Frontlander is the Toyota Corolla Cross' twin in China