MW Toyota has finally unveiled its latest compact SUV offering here in Malaysia in the form of the 2021 Toyota Corolla Cross. Those who are interested to get one of their very own should note that there are two different variants, which are the base 1.8G and the range-topping 1.8V with a price tag of RM124,000 and RM134,000 respectively (on-the-road excluding insurance, sales tax exemption only for 1.8G until 30 June 2021).

The 2021 Toyota Corolla Cross will also be the latest model to be included in UMW Toyota's CKD portfolio, which will start sometime in June. For the first batch, these units will be brought in as CBUs directly from Thailand. Nevertheless, the Corolla Cross presents a sleek-looking utilitarian vehicle with muscular accents that'll probably last the tests of time.

Exterior-wise, the 1.8G comes with halogen headlamps and rear lights but if you opt for the range-topping 1.8V, you'll get Bi-LED headlights paired with LED daytime running lights finished in that beautiful light curtain design. That's basically the only difference when it comes to the exterior between the two variants for the 2021 Toyota Corolla Cross.

Built on the latest Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, the Corolla Cross also offers high levels of stability, agility, and visibility. You'll get a huge cabin that's somewhat similar to what you'll find in the Corolla Altis, apart from the addition of ambient lighting (only for the 1.8V variant). Its spacious interior also offers a very clean and minimalist look without any major distractions for the driver, especially its narrow A-pillars that further reduce blind spots for drivers.

Speaking of driving, Toyota's latest compact SUV comes ready with a 1.8-litre DOHC dual VVT-i engine that produces a respectable 139PS and 172Nm of torque. This is the same unit as the one found in the Corolla Altis, which also means that it's fitted with a seven-speed CVT gearbox with sequential shiftmatic.

This provides a very smooth and comfortable driving experience when driven in normal day-to-day scenarios, but it does get a bit loud on more 'spirited' drives. Nonetheless, the Corolla Cross still maintains its smoothness throughout the journey, even will a full load of passengers and 440 litres of cargo space.

All Toyota Corolla Cross models come with an extensive safety suite which includes D panoramic view monitor, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Front Digital Recorder, seven SRS airbags, plus many more. If you opt for the 1.8V variant, you'll get a few extra such as Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Aler, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, and Automatic High Beam.

Priced from RM124,000, future customers can choose from five different colour options - Red Mica Metallic, Metalstream Metallic, Platinum White Pearl, Graphite Metallic, and our personal favourite, Nebula Blue Metallic. For more information, head over to www.toyota.com.my or visit the nearest authorised dealer.