The Toyota Corolla Cross made its global debut in Thailand back in July 2020 and gradually found its way across the globe, including Japan, China, and the US.

For this comparison, we’ll take a closer look at the ASEAN-spec (identical to the one sold in Malaysia) and compare it against the Japan-spec model that was launched in late-2021.

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

Exterior – Japan’s Corolla Cross exudes elegance

Compared to the Corolla Cross that’s sold in the US and ASEAN region, the Japan-spec model gets a completely redesigned front fascia, with its grille positioned further down. It also gets a Japan-specific C-motif emblem, putting it in line with Japan’s Corolla line-up.

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

The Japan-spec Corolla Cross also gets unique dual-tone 18-inch alloy wheels, revamped tail lights and rear bumper. Like the US-spec Corolla Cross, the Japan-spec one has its Corolla Cross nameplate repositioned to the left side of the tailgate, instead of being spelt across the number plate garnish, like the ASEAN-spec car.

Also Read: Buying a Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid? Does it handle flooded roads poorer than regular cars?

The Japan-spec Corolla Cross also loses out on the neat little Corolla Cross wording nestled within the tail lights.

Inside – Will we be getting EPB?

The biggest differentiator between the Japan Corolla Cross and ours is the presence of an electric parking brake (EPB), while we get a foot-operated one.

While both the ASEAN- and Japan-spec Corolla Cross models offer a large 9-inch infotainment system, the latter has a thinner side profile than what we get. The ASEAN-spec one has a larger protrusion when viewed from the side, which isn’t nearly as elegant as the Japanese one.

Also Read: Pros and Cons: Almost perfect, the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid is why good is good enough

There’s also a massive panoramic sunroof that gives the Japan’s Corolla Cross a more airy cabin.

Powertrain – AWD is an option for Japan

Powertrain options in Japan largely mirror the options available in Malaysia – a petrol-electric 1.8-litre hybrid or a naturally-aspirated 1.8-litre petrol.

The petrol-powered model is CVT-only and power is routed to the front wheels. As for the hybrid, it is available as a four-wheel drive (4WD) option – something that isn’t offered in this part of our region.

Also Read: Toyota doesn’t sell hybrids in Cambodia, so why is Phnom Penh SEA’s Prius capital?

It is also worth highlighting that the Japanese Corolla Cross Hybrid doubles as an emergency back-up generator, thanks to its Emergency Power Supply Mode feature. During blackouts and other times of emergencies, this mode can be used to power small electrical appliances like electric kettles or hair dryers.

Also Read: Yours for RM 137k, Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid launched in Malaysia

WapCar’s comments:

Despite sharing the same name, these two models are vastly different, down to their styling cues and features offered.

While there’s no clear winner between the ASEAN- and Japan-spec Corolla Cross models, we can certainly appreciate the features offered on the latter, including the electric parking brake and mobile power bank feature.

What about you, dear reader? Between the Japanese and ASEAN Corolla Cross, which is your pick? Or would you rather wait for the all-new 2022 Honda HR-V to drop?

Also Read: Comparison with the 2021 Toyota Corolla Cross’ true rival – the 2022 Honda HR-V