Toyota Corolla Cross vs Proton X70 - Which one is better?

The launch of the Toyota Corolla Cross has created a sensation in the Malaysian automotive arena as it stands against a number of popular B- and C-segment SUVs due to its ambiguous size. The list covers both Proton’s SUVs - X50 and X70, other than the Honda HR-V, Kia Seltos, and Mazda CX-30. However, the Corolla Cross price that ranges between RM 1,24,000 and 1,34,000 directly puts it within the crosshairs of the X70. The price of the range-topping Proton X70 is very close to the base trim of the Corolla Cross, thus cross-shopping between the two models is obvious.

To give you guys a clear picture, here we bring the Toyota Corolla Cross G versus Proton X70 Premium X 2WD (priced at RM 1,22,800) spec to spec comparison that might help you in deciding which one is better for you.

Toyota Corolla Cross vs Proton X70 - Dimensions

The Toyota Corolla Cross is more of an oversized B-segment or a small C-segment SUV, while the X70 is a properly-sized C-segment SUV. The following comparison between the two models’ dimensions reveals that they have almost the same width, however, the X70 is longer and taller. The Malaysian SUV also has a longer wheelbase, which means more cabin space at the rear sitting area along with much larger boot space. Overall, the Proton X70 has an upper hand when it comes to size.

Specifications	Toyota Corolla Cross	Proton X70
Length	4460 mm	4519 mm
Width	1825 mm	1831 mm
Height	1620 mm	1694 mm
Wheelbase	2640 mm	2670 mm
Boot space	440 litres	515 litres

Toyota Corolla Cross vs Proton X70 - Engine specifications

Under the hood, both SUVs feature a 1.8-litre gasoline engine, however, the core difference lies in the way air is transmitted into the engine. The X70 is equipped with a forced-induction turbo-charged 1.8-litre motor that delivers 184 PS and 300 Nm, while the Corolla Cross has a barebones naturally-aspirated 1.8-litre mill good for 139 PS and 172 Nm. Thanks to 7-speed DCT that’s one of the reasons behind the X70’s unmatched performance. Check the spec-to-spec comparison of the powertrain in the below table.

Specifications	Toyota Corolla Cross G	Proton X70 Premium X 2WD
Engine	1.8 litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder dual VVT-i petrol	1.8-litre TGDi petrol
Maximum Power	139 PS	184 PS
Peak torque	172 Nm	300 Nm
Transmission	CVT with a Sequential Shiftmatic system	7-speed DCT

Toyota Corolla Cross vs Proton X70 - Standard equipment

The Toyota Corolla Cross G exterior equipment list comprises halogen projector headlamps with bulb-type DRLs, LED fog lamps, LED tail lights, 17-inch wheels, a powered tailgate with a kick sensor, and powered wing mirrors with LED turn indicators. Inside, the SUV gets all modern-day appointments like a 4.2-inch colour multi-info display, a nine-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto support, single-zone automatic climate control with rear vents, eight-way power-adjustability for the driver seat, a front-facing dash cam, and black leather seat upholstery. 

In contrast, the Proton X70 gets LED headlamps, LED daytime running lights, front welcome lamps, 19-inch alloy wheels, a power tailgate with a foot sensor, and a panoramic sunroof. The inside creature comforts list includes Nappa leather seats, driver power seat, front passenger power seat with ‘boss’ switch and ventilation, 8-inch infotainment head unit with online navigation, 9 speakers with power amplifier and subwoofer, and air purifier system.

Toyota Corolla Cross vs Proton X70 - Safety 

When it comes to safety and driver-assistance, both the Corolla Cross and X70 are almost neck-to-neck with their advanced systems. Both models offer blind spot monitoring, a 360-degree view camera, front and rear parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring system, and cruise control. 

However, the Japanese SUV gets seven airbags, a rear cross-traffic alert, and Vehicle Telematics System. It is important to note here, Toyota Safety Sense does not come with the base trim, you can get that advanced safety suite with the top-spec Corolla Cross priced RM 10,000 higher than the base model. On the other hand, the X70 is fitted with six airbags, autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning,

Verdict

In a nutshell, it is obvious that the X70 looks more lucrative than the foreign SUV. It is bigger, offers more in terms of engine performance and also looks plusher inside the cabin. However, the Corolla Cross has a brand’s reliability tag along with all modern-day functionalities. So, what’s your take, let us know in the comments.

Also read: 2021 Toyota Corolla Cross: Safety kit analysis