The Toyota Corolla Cross, often overshadowed by its larger sibling the RAV4, has been reimagined as a beach-inspired concept vehicle named Weekend Coast. Developed by Japanese automotive supplier Hayashi Telempu, the concept targets young families and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize beach trips and coastal activities.
Hayashi Telempu, a leading supplier specializing in interior trim, floor carpets, and soundproofing, created the Weekend Coast concept using the Corolla Cross as its foundation. The company’s products are utilized by nearly every major automaker, including Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda, Mitsubishi, and Subaru, as well as global OEMs such as Ford, GM, and Stellantis.
Interior Redesign for Outdoor Comfort
The concept introduces several functional and aesthetic upgrades to the Corolla Cross interior. The most notable feature is the retractable tailgate seating with integrated footrests, mirroring the luxury experience of Rolls-Royce’s Cullinan Viewing Suite package. This setup is designed to enhance comfort during outdoor gatherings, particularly at beaches.
The interior upholstery has been customized with blue and white sea-inspired patterns, complemented by ambient lighting on the door cards. Additional upgrades include a panoramic sunroof and white upholstery on the dashboard, creating a cohesive coastal theme throughout the cabin.
Exterior Design and Mechanical Features
The exterior of the Weekend Coast concept features a bi-tone livery in light blue and white, aligning with the interior’s nautical aesthetic. Unlike aftermarket show cars, this concept retains the mechanical specifications of the Japanese-spec Corolla Cross, including its standard self-charging hybrid powertrain.
Purpose and Market Feedback
Hayashi Telempu will showcase the Weekend Coast concept at the Field Style Tokyo Show in Japan on May 9-10. The primary goal is to gather feedback from young families with outdoor-oriented lifestyles, as well as pet owners, to inform future product proposals. While the concept is not intended for mass production, similar aftermarket solutions could eventually reach the market based on consumer response.