Toyota Corolla Hatch Gets Special FX; Corolla Cross Updated

While the definition of a Toyota Corolla has shifted over the years, including a recent foray into the crossover segment, it still remains an affordable, honest commuter. This recognizable name is honoring the past with a new FX Edition for the hatchback, and looking to the future with a mid-cycle refresh for the Corolla Cross.

The FX treatment had previously been applied to the Corolla sedan, both that and the hatch paying homage to the Corolla FX16 of the 1980’s. As sharp as the sedan was, the hatchback should catch more looks thanks to a set of 18-inch gloss white wheels. The black lug nuts contrast the wheels but match the sport wing adorning the rear, beneath which on the hatch is a throwback heritage badge. A semblance of subtlety can be provided by the available Ice Cap white paint, and perhaps even Blue Crush Metallic, but the Inferno orange, as seen here, is as loud as it’ll get.

That fiery hue will pair best with the orange contrast stitching used inside, holding together the black sport touring seats, door panels, steering wheel and shifter boot. Based on the SE grade, the Hatchback FX includes a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, an 8-inch infotainment screen, and a wireless device charger. In front of the driver is the Corolla’s 2.0-liter inline-four, naturally aspirated and able to deliver 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque.

More substantial changes have been applied to the Corolla Cross, and they extend beyond a new Cavalry Blue paint job. Both the gas-only and hybrid models receive updated front ends, both of which are reminiscent of other Toyota models with similar powertrains. The black grille work seen on the former is now wider, shaped similarly to what we’ve seen on the latest 4Runner; and the latter features a color-matched design with smaller, but more numerous openings. Two sets of wheels, both 18-inch sets, are newly available: Gray and machined for the XLE, and gloss-black alloys on the Hybrid XSE.

The XLE interior can be had in a new Portobello color; and all cabins benefit from a new front console design with more space. A 10.5-inch infotainment touchscreen is now available, pairable with a 12.3-inch digital gauge display. The XLE AWD and Hybrid XSE come standard with a heated steering wheel and heated front seats, part of the cold weather package.

Pricing and availability for both the Corolla FX Hatchback and Corolla Cross lineup will be confirmed closer to launch.