In the latest filing with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), images of the new FAW Toyota Corolla Cross (known locally as Corolla Ruifang) have been revealed. As a mid-cycle facelift, the updated model introduces notable exterior changes aligned with the overseas version, along with a slight power upgrade. It continues to use the M20G 2.0L naturally aspirated engine, with output increased from 112 kW to 116 kW.
Exterior
The most significant change is at the front, where the new Corolla Cross adopts a borderless honeycomb-style grille. The headlights retain the current shape but gain side air ducts, while the bumper continues with a crossover-inspired look. At the rear, the taillight clusters feature a revised internal structure, and a new Cement Grey metallic paint option is added. Dimensions remain unchanged at 4460/1825/1625 mm, with a 2640 mm wheelbase.
Interior & Features
Drawing on the overseas model, the facelift updates the center display to 10.1 inches, with instrument clusters available in 7-inch or 12.3-inch formats. Equipment includes a panoramic sunroof, wireless smartphone charging, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, tire pressure monitoring, 360° panoramic cameras, distance alerts, dashcam integration, and electronic parking.
Powertrain
Built on the Toyota TNGA-C platform, the updated Corolla Cross continues with the 2.0L M20G engine (116 kW) paired with a CVT transmission, using a front MacPherson strut and rear torsion-beam suspension setup.
Sister Model – GAC Toyota Frontlander
The sibling model, the new GAC Toyota Frontlander, was also filed with MIIT. It adopts Toyota’s latest family design, with a reworked split grille, redesigned bumper, repositioned logo, and reshaped headlights. Blacked-out details on the mirrors, skirts, and wheel arches enhance its sportiness. At the rear, the taillight internals are new, complemented by a black bumper, spoiler, shark-fin antenna, and hidden exhaust. Dimensions are slightly larger at 4490/1825/1625 mm, with the same 2640 mm wheelbase. The Frontlander will offer both gasoline and hybrid powertrains, with the hybrid using a lithium-ion battery supplied by CATL.
Market Positioning
Both the Corolla Cross and Frontlander are localized versions of the global Corolla Cross, launched in China in 2022 by FAW Toyota and GAC Toyota respectively. Priced between RMB 129,800–184,800, they compete in the compact SUV segment against models like the Honda XR-V/Vezel, Nissan Qashqai, VW Tharu, Mazda CX-5, Kia Sportage, and Hyundai ix35.
Sales figures show strong demand: in the first half of 2025, the Corolla Cross sold 86,479 units, while the Frontlander reached 84,174 units, both outpacing the VW Tharu (71,473 units). However, domestic rivals such as the Changan CS75 PLUS (100,188 units) and Geely Boyue L (81,503 units) dominate the segment with larger sizes and lower prices. Meanwhile, similarly sized Chinese SUVs like the GAC GS3 (starting at RMB 85,800) and Lynk & Co 06 (from RMB 108,600) further intensify competition.
Despite these challenges, the Toyota badge continues to give the Corolla Cross and Frontlander strong appeal within the compact SUV market. The facelifted models are expected to enter the Chinese market in 2025, and their performance will be closely watched.
