Contrary to what critics are saying online about hybrid cars and expensive battery replacement costs, the reality is quite the opposite.

Checks with several Toyota dealers across town have confirmed that the Corolla Cross Hybrid has been more popular than what Toyota initially anticipated.

Over 40 percent of buyers opted for the Hybrid variant, exceeding Toyota's initial projection. This also means that demand for the hybrid variant has exceeded UMW Toyota's initial estimates, also making the Corolla Cross Hybrid Malaysia's most popular non-luxury hybrid.

Also Read: UMWT: Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid to have strong resale value, 40% buyers expected to pick hybrid

While the hybrid adoption rate is lower than Japan (90 percent) and Thailand (85 percent), it is definitely encouraging to see Malaysians being more receptive to hybrids than before.

Also Read: Malaysians say hybrids are unreliable, 85% of Thai Toyota Corolla Cross are hybrids

Also Read: While Malaysia waits, 90% of Japanese Toyota Corolla Cross buyers bought Hybrid variants

In Malaysia, the Toyota Corolla Cross is priced from RM 123,000 for the entry-level 1.8G variant, while the upper-spec 1.8V variant is priced from RM 129,000. The range-topping Corolla Cross Hybrid is priced from RM 136,550. All prices are inclusive of the SST exemptions, valid till 30-June 2022.

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

The Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid is backed by a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, in addition to the 8-year unlimited mileage warranty for the hybrid battery, inverter, and power management ECU. UMWT is also offering a 2-year extension on the hybrid system's warranty for an additional RM 2,950.

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

But that's not all. Malaysians can expect the next phase of budget-friendly hybrids to come next year, starting with the Perodua Ativa Hybrid. 

Also Read: Work underway for Perodua’s first hybrid (Ativa?) – 2023 launch, affordable price a major focus