The Toyota Corolla was launched 55 years in the past and, with 50 million models, is the best-selling car of all time.

Nevertheless, lots has modified previously 5 and a half a long time so the Corolla is following swimsuit by spawning a crossover variant.

Referred to as the Corolla Cross, the brand new mannequin seeks to construct on the automobile’s status as being an reasonably priced and dependable individuals mover. After all, the corporate’s ambitions are larger than that and that is clearly mirrored within the choice to construct the crossover at an all-new plant in Alabama, which has the capability to end up 150,000 models yearly.

Not Your Typical Corolla

Whereas the Twelfth-generation Corolla options an aggressive design, the Corolla Cross goes in a barely extra generic route which is typical of the section. It’s much more typical than the C-HR and adopts conventional crossover styling cues akin to plastic physique cladding and fake skid plates.

The ensuing design is pretty conservative, however moderately good-looking particularly in Cypress Inexperienced. Three totally different trims can be found, although all Corolla Crosses include a black grille, body-color door handles and LED headlights. Nevertheless, you may simply spot the entry-level variant due to its 17-inch metal wheels and an absence of privateness glass.

On the reverse finish of the spectrum, the range-topping XLE boasts LED fog lights and 18-inch alloy wheels. Consumers will even discover further chrome trim together with a “Corolla Cross” badge on the rear pillar.

A Acquainted However Cozy Cabin

Whereas the mannequin is just about unrecognizable as a Corolla from the skin, the identical can’t be stated in regards to the inside because the cabin is closely influenced by its namesake. This can be a little bit of a blended bag, however the design is completely fashionable thanks partially to a freestanding 7- or 8-inch infotainment system with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa compatibility.

The infotainment system is straightforward and intuitive to make use of, nevertheless it’s attention-grabbing to notice navigation isn’t even obtainable as an choice. We talked to a handful of Toyota officers about this and the corporate believes Corolla Cross patrons would fairly use Android Auto or Apple CarPlay as an alternative.

On the subject of screens, the crossover eschews a digital instrument cluster for analog gauges and a small 4.2-inch multi-information show. That being stated, the range-topping XLE has a 7-inch show that acts as a digital speedometer.

Given the mannequin’s give attention to worth, it comes as little shock the entry-level variant has a guide local weather management system, a urethane steering wheel and vainness mirrors with out illumination. Consumers will even discover a single upholstery choice, however there are niceties akin to energy home windows and locks in addition to rear air vents.

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These are primary lodging, however a majority of patrons will go for the mid-level LE trim which boasts facilities akin to a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a wi-fi smartphone charger and a bigger 8-inch infotainment system. They’ll additionally discover an computerized local weather management system and a passive entry system with a push button ignition.

Consumers in search of extra luxurious can go for the XLE trim, which provides heated SofTex entrance seats with 10-way energy adjustment on the motive force’s aspect. They’re a bit agency, however the obtainable two-tone design helps to spruce up the cabin.

Whereas the entrance seats are moderately spacious, the again seats go away one thing to be desired as there’s a scant 32 inches (813 mm) of rear legroom. That’s lower than the Corolla sedan and it’s a little bit of a squeeze for adults, who could be a lot happier within the roomier Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Kia Seltos or Volkswagen Taos. These fashions provide an additional 5.9 – 7.4 inches (150 – 188 mm) of rear legroom and that’s an enormous distinction.

The cargo compartment holds as much as 26.5 cubic toes (750 liters) of baggage. If that isn’t sufficient, folding down the rear seats will increase the expanse as much as 66.8 cubic toes (1,892 liters) and that’s greater than opponents such because the TrailBlazer and Seltos. Nevertheless, the load flooring isn’t flat and as an alternative resembles a ramp worthy of Evel Knievel.

That isn’t the one demerit because the cabin has hints of cheapness. This isn’t uncommon for the section, however some plastics and switchgear look low-rent. That being stated, there are many vivid spots together with a contemporary design, an aesthetic local weather management system and trendy metallic accents.

4-Cylinder Energy With A Hybrid On The Horizon

Like higher-end variations of the Corolla, the Corolla Cross is powered by a 2.0-liter Dynamic Power four-cylinder engine that produces 169 hp (126 kW / 171 PS) and 150 lb-ft (203 Nm) of torque. It’s greater than ample round city, however we saved the accelerator busy on the hilly outskirts of Austin, Texas.

Extra energy will surely be welcome, however the engine’s output is fairly aggressive for the crowded section. Specifically, it simply trounces the Honda HR-V’s 1.8-liter four-cylinder with 141 hp (105 kW / 143 PS) and 127 lb-ft (172 Nm) of torque. Nevertheless, it’s a better battle with fashionable opponents such because the Seltos, CX-30, Taos and Trailblazer.

The engine is linked to a Direct Shift repeatedly variable transmission, which is sourced from the Corolla S. It’s notable for having a bodily first gear that helps to enhance acceleration in addition to give the gearbox a extra pure really feel. Whereas this won’t appease the CVT haters, it’s an attention-grabbing thought and works fairly properly in follow.

Moreover, the powertrain is environment friendly as front-wheel drive variants have an EPA-estimated gas economic system score of 31 mpg metropolis, 33 mpg freeway, and 32 mpg mixed. Including all-wheel drive drops these numbers to 29 mpg metropolis, 32 mpg freeway, and 30 mpg mixed.

These figures are aggressive with key rivals and Toyota has confirmed plans for a hybrid variant. Little is understood about it, however officers stated we will anticipate to be taught extra particulars subsequent 12 months.

A Snug Crossover

Just like the Corolla and C-HR, the Corolla Cross rides on the TNGA-C platform and this serves as a stable basis for the crossover whereas additionally enabling the mannequin to tow as much as 1,500 lbs (680 kg).

As is typical within the section, the driving expertise isn’t terribly thrilling nevertheless it’s comfy nonetheless. On the sleek roads round Austin, the Corolla Cross was properly mannered as its suspension soaked up minor imperfections with out fuss.

On the dynamic aspect of the equation, the Corolla Cross appears to supply succesful dealing with. A extra in depth check would yield a definitive consequence, nevertheless it didn’t protest on the twisty roads outdoors town. It’s additionally value mentioning physique roll was just about non-existent and the crossover felt planted, besides when pushed to the restrict.

Whereas the Corolla Cross comes commonplace with front-wheel drive, prospects can improve to all-wheel drive for $1,300. That’s a cut price as many automakers cost between $1,500 and $2,000.

Talking of the all-wheel drive system, it may ship as much as 50 % of the engine’s energy to the rear wheels and disengage when not wanted. As an added bonus, all-wheel drive variants commerce the usual torsion-beam rear suspension for a extra superior multi-link setup.

In typical Toyota vogue, the electrical energy steering system is tuned a bit gentle for my liking nevertheless it’s nonetheless completely acceptable. The steering can be responsive, though it isn’t significantly participating.

When it comes time to cease, 12- and 11.1 inch (305 and 282 mm) discs are known as into motion to deliver the three,115 – 3,325 lbs (1,413 – 1,508 kg) crossover to a halt. We didn’t check them to extremes, however they appear able to the duty at hand.

Pricing Begins At $22,195

One of many greatest issues in regards to the Corolla Cross is its price ticket. It begins at an inexpensive $22,195 and you may get a well-equipped Corolla Cross LE with all-wheel drive for $25,845. Even the range-topping XLE begins at an reasonably priced $26,325 earlier than the $1,215 vacation spot cost is factored in.

We’ll break down the pricing and gear in a separate put up, however the Corolla Cross prices $4,155 lower than the 2021 RAV4 and that’s a big saving. It’s additionally value mentioning there’s solely $500 separating the Corolla Cross and the C-HR, so the choice is a no brainer except you’re infatuated with the latter’s styling.

Regardless of the reasonably priced price ticket, the Corolla Cross comes with a powerful quantity of ordinary security gear. Even the bottom mannequin options Full-Velocity Vary Dynamic Radar Cruise Management, Lane Tracing Help (lane centering), Street Signal Help, and a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian and Bike owner Detection. These are sometimes choices and fairly costly ones besides.

A Welcome Addition To The Corolla Lineup

The Corolla Cross plugs a significant gap in Toyota’s lineup as the corporate lastly has an entry-level crossover that’s obtainable with all-wheel drive, the dearth of which has damage C-HR gross sales, however the mannequin isn’t going wherever as Toyota believes the section is massive sufficient to assist two entries.

Moreover, the Corolla Cross offers Toyota a pure stepping stone to the RAV4 and its reasonably priced pricing ought to make the crossover interesting to younger households, entry-level professionals, and fogeys searching for new drivers within the household.

Whereas it resides in a fiercely aggressive section, it has various issues going for it together with a cushty journey, commonplace driver help techniques and an agreeable inside. It’s additionally unattainable to low cost Toyota’s sterling status for high quality and reliability, which can undoubtedly draw some prospects into the fold.

That being stated, various issues appear common and prospects can discover roomier interiors elsewhere for related cash. It actually comes right down to the place your priorities lie, however we’ve little doubt the newest addition to the Corolla lineup can be well-liked when it goes on sale in the USA this October.