Head to Head: GWM Haval Jolion HEV vs Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

Have you noticed how the Toyota Corolla Cross is popping up everywhere? The Toyota Corolla Cross is all the rage right now, and for good reason—it's been a hit for Toyota here, with its hybrid version especially popular among Filipino car buyers. Now, here comes GWM with its own contender, the Haval Jolion HEV. It's GWM's entry-level crossover, loaded with hybrid features from the get-go. But can it really stack up to the well-loved Toyota? We're about to find out.

First up, the looks. The GWM Haval Jolion definitely isn't shy about making an entrance. It flaunts a sporty and modern design with a wide grille and striking LED headlights that give it an assertive look. Add the fancy wheels, and it's clear this SUV wants to be noticed. Now, the Toyota Corolla Cross takes a more refined approach. It's got those sharp Bi-Beam LEDs and a sleek honeycomb grille that makes it look futuristic yet classy. 

If you like your car to have a bit of swagger and turn heads in a parking lot, the Jolion might just be your pick. Clearly, the Jolion wins for those who appreciate a standout, sporty design over classic lines. But, hey! If subtle elegance is more your style, the Corolla Cross could be the one sitting in your driveway.

Inside the Jolion, the atmosphere is vibrant and modern, making you feel like you're in something special. The cabin mixes soft materials and aesthetically pleasing designs with technology. It offers a more youthful vibe with its technologically advanced dashboard and connectivity features, thanks to its touchscreen that connects with everything, making sure you're plugged into the modern world every mile you drive. The Corolla Cross, on the other hand, keeps it classic and clean, with a layout that won't go out of style and materials that are built to last. The Corolla Cross features a digital gauge cluster varying in size across trims, maintaining Toyota's reputation for durable and ergonomic interior design.

While both vehicles offer competitive interiors, the Jolion's advanced tech and modern design, when you come in, slightly edges out the more conservative and traditional layout of the Corolla Cross.

Tech-wise, the Jolion is decked out. Technology in the Jolion includes a 10.25-inch infotainment screen boasting wireless connectivity options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also offers additional options for a larger screen, the inclusion of four to six speakers, depending on the variant, and refined air-conditioning systems. The Corolla Cross isn't far behind, especially with a 10-inch infotainment system that supports modern smartphone integration and is augmented by Toyota's Safety Sense technologies. These include advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and automatic braking. 

Both models provide strong technological features, but the Corolla Cross takes the crown for this round due to its safety features, that is really important for the convenience and safety of passengers. 

Under the hood, the Jolion offers more power with its turbocharged engine options, providing a lively and engaging driving experience, which makes it ideal for those who enjoy an adrenaline-full ride. The car is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine in its hybrid configuration, delivering an impressive 186 hp and 375 Nm of torque, coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. In contrast, the Toyota Corolla Cross features a 1.8-liter hybrid engine that produces a combined output of 120 hp and 142 Nm of torque, which makes it more of an efficient car than a performance one. The Corolla Cross utilizes an eCVT, which efficiently manages power distribution but might not deliver the same level of driving excitement as the Jolion.  

For those prioritizing performance and a spirited driving experience, the Jolion clearly takes the lead with its more powerful engine and responsive transmission.

In safety technology, the GWM Haval Jolion is well-equipped with safety features such as a Driver Fatigue Monitoring System and an advanced Electronic Stability Program. Higher trims include additional aids like Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assist, making it a good choice for safety-conscious buyers. However, the Toyota Corolla Cross steps ahead with its established safety reputation, thanks to its suite of active safety technologies and a five-star ASEAN NCAP rating, boasting its superior protective capabilities in crash tests. 

Yes, it's a clean sweep for the Corolla Cross when it comes to safety due to its proven safety record and advanced assistance systems.

Price-wise, the Jolion is more wallet-friendly and offers a lot of good packages for its starting price of Php 1,058,000, given its features and performance. The Corolla Cross, while pricier at its starting price of Php 1,498,000, banks on Toyota's reputation and resale value. 

For this round, if the value for money is your thing, the Jolion HEV makes a strong case.

Looking at the categories above, the Jolion seems to have won, even though it's fairly new. However, there's much more to look at and consider beyond that. It's surprising the GWM Jolion HEV could even match up to the Toyota Corolla Cross. As a newcomer, it's interesting to see it perform so well initially. However, we are talking about Toyota here, a brand known for cars that last a long time. 

Remember, both these hybrids are good in their own ways, but what matters most is what you're looking for in a car. If you're interested in seeing more from GWM and Toyota, head over to AutoDeal where you can also get a quote for any car you like.