Toyota Teases Frontlander SUV

Toyota has released a fresh series of teasers for the Frontlander, their latest SUV for the Chinese market. The Frontlander, as seen in the photos, is a new name for the Chinese-spec Toyota Corolla Cross, which is set to debut at the Guangzhou Auto Show in November. 

Aside from the image that shows the upper half of the profile, there is another teaser that shows the LED headlights and grille. The Frontlander SUV looks almost comparable to the Corolla Cross, which is now available in Japan. It has a different design when compared to models available in ASEAN regions and the United States. The Frontlander and Corolla Cross SUVs have very identical side profiles, but the former has different headlamps, front grille and bumper, and a mildly revised rear bumper. 

The Frontlander is constructed on Toyota’s TNGA modular platform, which is used to build a wide range of vehicles and SUVs worldwide. The primary engine option will be a 1.8-liter petrol engine with hybrid technology, with AWD as standard on most variants. 

Toyota, like other automakers, has teamed up with two local manufacturers, FAW and GAC. The Frontlander will be manufactured by GAC Toyota, however FAW may introduce a similar model under the Corolla Cross label. 

Because Toyota vehicles are occasionally built by both Chinese businesses, they are known by different names. For example, the Corolla is also known as Levin, the C-HR is known as IZOA, the RAV4 is known as the Wildlander, and the Highlander is known as Crown Kluger. 

While the Frontlander is likely to be left-hand drive only, the Corolla Cross is offered in right-hand drive areas such as Thailand. However, there is no indication that the SUV would be available in India very soon. Instead, the RAV4 SUV, which has been observed testing in India, is scheduled to arrive. In addition, the Fortuner is slated to get a makeover in the near future.