We understand the appeal of crossovers. They are taller and more spacious than a sedan, but easier to drive in the city than pick-up based SUVs. That is the reason why we have tons of them available in our market today. Now, Toyota Motor Philippines just launched their warrior in the crossover wars, the Corolla Cross. Here is why we think this vehicle has a lot of things Filipinos want in a car.

It’s sized just right. We Pinoys love going on road trips with family, friends and lots of stuff. With 440L of cargo capacity, the Corolla Cross has tons of room for everyone’s belongings. With ample seating for five occupants, it’s the perfect companion for grocery runs or long drives.

It sits high enough. Our roads are riddled with potholes and speed bumps. But since the Corolla Cross sits 161mm above the ground, it has sufficient ride height to clear these tarmac imperfections while ensuring stable and predictable handling.

It looks good. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and Filipino car buyers are known to be generally conservative. The Corolla Cross’ stately lines are pleasing to the eye. We think this look will definitely stand the test of time.

It’s loaded. Creature comforts abound in the Corolla Cross. LED headlights and daytime running lights allow you to see in the dark with confidence. Smart keyless entry and power-folding mirrors give added convenience. The infotainment system has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The climate control system has rear vents the keep the cabin cool even in the hottest of summers. This new crossover ticks most of the boxes that feature-conscious buyers want in a family car.

It’s safe. The Corolla Cross is the fourth vehicle in Toyota’s stable that has the Toyota Safety Sense suite of features. This includes a Pre-Collision System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, Lane Tracing Assist and Automatic High Beam System. On top of those, you also get blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, panoramic monitor, hill start assist, traction control, vehicle stability control, antilock brakes and seven airbags. The Corolla Cross just gives you the peace of mind like nothing else in the market today.

It’s got good engines. The Corolla Cross comes with a choice of two engines. The base G variant has a fuel-efficient 1.8-liter motor developing 138hp. For environmentally conscious consumers, the V grade is equipped with a hybrid powertrain consisting of a 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle lump and an electric motor good for a combined output of 120hp. This eco-friendly option gives the Corolla Cross exceptional fuel efficiency with lesser emissions.

It’s tough. At the end of the day, it’s a Toyota. When properly cared for, the Corolla Cross is expected to last a lifetime of worry-free driving and ownership. For even more peace of mind especially for customers going for the hybrid version, all 70 Toyota dealerships nationwide are qualified to service the vehicle.

Starting August 26, the Corolla Cross can be had for P1,285,000 for the 1.8 G and P1,650,000 for the fully loaded 1.8 V. It has the perfect mix of great design, amazing features, reassuring safety, great performance, fuel efficiency, and Toyota dependability. And because of that, the Corolla Cross is indeed the crossover that Filipinos should get.