Toyota Indus Motor Company has finally launched its HEV crossover SUV, the Corolla Cross. We covered it in detail in our previous blog. If you haven’t read it already, we strongly urge you to do so. It will help you make an informed decision about this new entrant in the hybrid crossover market.
Toyota Corolla Cross Launched: Specs, Features, and Pricing in Pakistan
Those who have already read the above blog would know that this SUV is available in two variants – Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV X (HI) and Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV (MID). Interestingly, the price difference between the two is minimal – merely Rs.450,000. In this blog, we will try to find out whether you should spend an extra sum of Rs.450,000 on the upper variant. Or, to put it simply, what more will you get for paying this extra amount?
Let’s start by exploring the similarities between the two, so we can address them first.
Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV X (HI) Vs Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV (MID): Similarities
When you think of an HEV, the engine immediately comes to mind. Interestingly, both variants come fitted with the same engine—a 1.8L 2ZR-FXE engine generating 98 hp and 142 Nm of torque. They also include a 600-volt electric motor, adding 72 hp and 163 Nm. The total output is 196 hp and 188 Nm. Therefore, both variants offer the same engine performance.
Furthermore, is the upper variant bigger than the lower one? Does it seat more passengers? Does it have a longer wheelbase, ensuring a smoother ride than the lower variant? The answers to these questions are also negative. Both are equally built, accommodating the same number of passengers, etc.
The difference between the two lies in external and internal features. Let’s discuss them one by one in detail.
Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV X (HI) Vs Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV (MID): Differences
As mentioned earlier, the length, width, and height of both variants are the same. So, are there any external differences between them? Let’s explore:
X Auto Rain Sensor with Windshield Wiper Control:
- Available in the X variant.
- Not present in the base variant.
Roof Rail:
- X variant features a black roof rail.
- Base variant does not offer roof rail.
Luggage Carrier:
- Top variant (X) has a powered luggage carrier with a kick sensor.
- Base variant comes with an electric lock for the luggage carrier.
Upon entering the SUV, these are the differences you would notice between the two:
Seats:
- X variant: Leather seats.
- Base variant: Fabric seats.
Rear Armrest:
- X variant: PVC material with slide feature.
- Base variant: Fabric material.
Interior Illumination:
- X variant: Offers illumination in glove box, cup holder, front door, and instrument panel tray.
- Base variant: Room lamps are dome-style.
Multi Info Display (MID):
- X variant: 7-inch colored MID.
- Base variant: 4.2-inch colored MID.
Infotainment System:
- X variant: 9-inch screen.
- Base variant: 7-inch screen.
Front Seat Adjustments:
- X variant: Powered front seat slide and recline (Driving), manual adjustments (passenger).
- Base variant: Manual adjustments.
Rearview Mirror:
- X variant: Electrochromic mirror with sensors, automatically dims based on approaching headlights.
- Base variant: Day and night rearview mirror, tiltable to reduce brightness and glare.
Safety: Which of the Two is the Safer Option?
Can you purchase additional safety by paying Rs.450,000 more? Let’s find out.
The X variant comes with two additional safety features, namely:
- Blind Spot Monitor – Enhances driving safety by alerting you to vehicles in your blind spots, reducing the risk of potential collisions.
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) – Provides an additional layer of safety by warning you of approaching traffic from the side when backing up, preventing unexpected collisions.
That is it. Otherwise there is no difference between the two.
Is the Price Difference Justified?
Let’s conclude this blog by addressing the most important question: should you invest an additional Rs.450,000 for the upper or X variant? We believe that the price difference is justified.
In summary, by opting for the extra features, you receive:
- Leather seats
- Auto Rain Sensor with Windshield Wiper Control
- Roof rail
- A powered luggage carrier with a kick sensor
- 7-inch colored MID
- 9-inch screen
- Powered front seat slide and recline (Driving)
- Electrochromic mirror with sensors
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
If you were to acquire these features in the aftermarket, the cost would likely exceed Rs.450,000.
Do you agree with us that paying extra for the upper/X variant is justified? Leave your comments.
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