After crossing a massively challenging year, the automotive industry buckles up for the new year. A number of carmakers are looking forward to rolling out their new car models in 2021 and the Japanese automaker, Toyota is no exception in this. Last year, the Malaysians witnessed an array of new and updated models from the house of Toyota despite the unprecedented challenges. These include the upgraded premium MPVs - Toyota Alphard and Toyota Vellfire, followed by the launch of the RAV4 SUV and tougher Hilux pickup. 

Not only this but to end 2020 with a bang, the automaker unboxed the surprise of launching four new models on a single day, which comprises the highly-awaited GR Yaris, 2020 Yaris, 2020 Vios, and Vios GR-S. Well in 2021, we suppose to see some more powerful launches from Toyota in the local market, so let’s take a look.

2021 Toyota Fortuner 

Toyota launched the upgraded Fortuner and its ute version, the Hilux, in Thailand back in June. Later in October, the pickup made its way to Malaysian shores, making it reasonable to expect the SUV to follow suit. Judging by the Thai-spec 2021 Fortuner, the facelift is bound to bring some significant changes if the Legender trim makes its way to the local market. The Fortuner Legender carries a more powerful 2.8-litre engine generating 204 PS of maximum power and 500 Nm of peak torque, that’s a bump of 27 PS and 50 Nm.  

The new Fortuner sports a new front fascia featuring a larger grille, new LED headlamps, new foglight bezels, and a revised bumper. Added to the mods are new 18-inch alloy rims and slimmer looking LED tail lights. At the same time, the Fortuner Legender features a sportier persona with a split grille and several sporty enhancements. Toyota Safety sense suite and new creature comforts are also available in the latest version.

2021 Toyota Innova 

Toyota has already unveiled the 2021 Innova facelift in the Indonesian market in October this year, giving us the hopes of getting the updated MPV next year. Also, the fact that the current version is on sale in Malaysian since 2016 further strengthens our expectations. The new Innova gets exterior changes front and rear, as well as detail upgrades inside, although the dimensions of the minivan remain unchanged. The revisions include a trapezoidal grille, LED projector units, 17-inch two-tone alloys, an eight-inch touchscreen display, an integrated air purifier, and ambient lighting. In terms of powertrain, the Indonesia-spec Innova comes with a choice of 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder petrol engine or a 2.4-litre inline four-cylinder turbodiesel. Both are available with a 5-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

2021 Toyota Harrier

The fourth-generation Toyota Harrier made its global premiere in Japan in June, and it is said to hit the Asian markets, including Malaysia in 2021. Based on the brand’s TNGA-K platform, just like the Toyota RAV4, the new Harrier is a completely new model. It features a revamped front and rear fascia with sharp LED headlamps and tail lamps, also the height has been lowered by 30 mm to compliment a sloping roof design. The cabin is fitted with an 8.0- or 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display; both supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Unlike the predecessor model, the all-new Toyota Harrier is powered by naturally-aspirated engines only, these comprise a 2.0-litre petrol engine generating 171 PS of power and 207 Nm of torque and a 2.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid with a combined system output of 218 PS. It also has Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) ADAS suite now.

Toyota Corolla Cross

In July 2020, the Toyota Corolla Cross made its global debut in Thailand and was subsequently launched in other markets, including Indonesia and Vietnam. In Malaysia, it was also spotted a few times during road trials with UMW Toyota number plates, which indicates that the SUV is bound to be launched in the country next year. The Corolla Cross is based on the concept of “Corolla Meets SUV” and rides on the company’s new TNGA platform. With 4,460 mm length, 1,620 mm height, and 1,825 mm width, the five-seater SUV slots between the Toyota C-HR and RAV4.

Upfront, it features a bold yet clean design with a large grille, swept-back LED headlights and a muscular hood. Adding to its sporty appearance are 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels. Other standard bits include a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, reverse camera, seven airbags, ABS with EBD and BA, and Stability Control. On the mechanical front, there are two options - one petrol and one hybrid. When it comes to competition, the upcoming SUV will fight against the likes of the Honda HR-V, and Proton X50.

So, these are some of the expected Toyota models arriving in Malaysia next year. Stay tuned to this place for all the updates and detailed coverage on these.

Also read: 2021 Perodua new cars: What to expect?