2022 Toyota Corolla Cross
It was clear that Toyota needed something to fill the space between the small C-HR and the popular RAV4 in their SUV lineup. They wanted something that was right sized for individuals and families who do not need the space of a larger vehicle.
The solution came in the new Corolla Cross. As the name suggests, it is a Corolla-based SUV/crossover that gets its looks from the RAV4.
Is basing a new SUV off of the historically reliable and dependable nameplate enough for attract new customers to Toyota? Rather, to introduce a new smaller addition to its lineup.
When you look at the Corolla Cross, you might automatically think it’s a slightly scaled down RAV4. That was intentional, as Toyota employed a familiar design language over the Corolla’s compact platform. The cues from front to back, as well as the roofline, all points to the RAV4’s influence on the Corolla Cross.
The grille texture and headlamps are unique to this smaller SUV. Yet, one can mistake the Corolla Cross for its larger sibling, even without noticing its smaller size overall. The longer front overhang and lower profile are among the cues that distinguishes the Corolla Cross from any of its larger CUV/SUV siblings.
Our top-of-the-line XLE tester adds 18-inch alloy wheels, more chrome finishing all around, LED front turn signals, foglamps and taillights. To sum it up, it is a nice package overall.
Inside of the Corolla Cross, you are treated to a nice-looking interior with plenty of parts from the Corolla sedan and hatchback. The center console looks familiar, as does the infotainment screen. The XLE’s full screen instrument cluster mixes a wide information screen with a digital speedometer, tachometer, and gauges.
It is a lot of light and dark earther tone shades around the cabin. The SofTex upholstered front seats were decent, offering some support and comfort. The rear seat space has average leg room with better head room than the sedan. Cargo space starts with a 25.2 cubic feet space behind the rear seats. You can fold down the rear seats for more space - up to 65.5 cubic feet.
Underneath the Corolla Cross’s hood is a 169-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Connected to a continuously variable transmission, we found that the driveline takes a while to get the Corolla Cross up to speed. It seems happier in town than passing on the highway. Our tester had all-wheel drive for better traction.
The Corolla Cross turned in a fuel consumption average of 24.9 MPG. This is below the 30 MPG average the Environmental Protection Agency tested for this vehicle.
The ride/handling mix was fine. Rougher roads were managed well. There was some lean and roll due to its 8.1-inch ground clearance. Otherwise, the driving experience was just fine overall.
While the steering system served up good turning circle, we felt that the Corolla Cross had light feeling system. On-center feel was good, and there was a decent amount of response to the wheels. The brakes are very solid with good pedal feel with good modulation. The Corolla exhibited good stops in normal and panic situations.
Pricing for the Corolla Cross starts at $22,195 for an L model with front-wheel drive. There are three trim levels available. Our fully-optioned XLE all-wheel drive tester came with a sticker price of $33,550.
The Corolla Cross opens up the market for Toyota in a segment that is hot right now. Competitors in this segment include the Jeep Compass, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Ford Bronco Sport, Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, Nissan Rogue Sport, Subaru Crosstrek, Mazda CX-30, Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, and Volkswagen Taos.
Where the Toyota Corolla Cross will attract new customers is in its name. That name stands for reliability, quality, and dependability. You can now add utility and greater practicality to its resume.
Story Credits: CarSoup Editors
