My first look at the Corolla Cross made me think of the plea people made online for a bigger pouch of Capri Sun juice because the current pouch size is small and leaves you wanting more. Only for them to pull up with the can and bottled Capri Sun that no one saw coming. Yes, no one saw the Toyota Corolla Cross coming. After being satisfied with the regular Corolla for years, can this new boy steal the hearts of long-time Corolla owners and new buyers? Let’s crossover.
Exterior Design: A Unique Identity
Sharing its platform with the C-HR, the Corolla Cross distinguishes itself with a calm and reserved demeanor. The large front grille ensures optimal airflow, while the sleek LED headlights integrate seamlessly into the car’s body, giving it a sophisticated look.
Unlike other Corolla models, the Corolla Cross has a distinct exterior that stands on its own. The black edge of the taillights adds a premium touch, and the car’s stance, though closer to the ground like a sedan, rides high enough to navigate rough roads with ease. Sitting on 17-inch alloy wheels, it’s designed to tackle a variety of terrains without sacrificing comfort or style. The headlight seamlessly flows into the grille, and fog lights are present for improved visibility.
There is still a deliberate effort to keep the Cross like a Corolla. From the front, you see a Corolla, but from the back, you see an SUV.
Engine and Performance: Balancing Power and Efficiency
Underneath its refined exterior, the Corolla Cross houses a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a CVT transmission. This combination not only ensures smooth and efficient performance but also makes it more economical than some of its rivals, like the Honda HR-V. With 169 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, it provides enough power for daily driving while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency, with an estimated 32 mpg combined. Whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on a long journey, the Corolla Cross delivers a reliable and enjoyable driving experience. The CVT transmission further enhances fuel savings, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious drivers.
Interior: Comfort and Connectivity
Stepping inside the Corolla Cross reveals a cabin that closely mirrors that of the traditional Corolla, with minor redesigns to enhance its SUV character. High-quality materials and a well-thought-out layout create a welcoming environment. While base models come with an LCD display, higher trims offer advanced features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity on the go. The available JBL sound system elevates the audio experience, making each drive a pleasure. The spacious interior, ample legroom, and versatile cargo space up to 66.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, cater to a wide range of needs, from grocery runs to weekend getaways. Three grown adults can be very comfortable in the back seat, making it ideal for family trips. The available trims include L, LE, and XLE, each offering varying levels of luxury and convenience.
Safety: Advanced Features for Peace of Mind
Safety remains a top priority for Toyota, and the Corolla Cross comes equipped with an impressive array of safety features. Standard across all trims is Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Additionally, the vehicle is fitted with ABS, multiple airbags, and lane departure warning, providing comprehensive protection for both driver and passengers.
Practicality: Designed for Everyday Adventures
One of the standout aspects of the Corolla Cross is its practicality. The split-folding rear seats provide flexibility for various cargo and passenger configurations, while the power liftgate and hands-free access make loading and unloading effortless. The thoughtful design extends to the driver’s experience, with steering wheel-mounted controls and intuitive button placement ensuring ease of use.
Conclusion: A Well-Rounded Compact SUV
Starting at the 50-million-naira range, the Toyota Corolla Cross is more than just an extension of the Corolla brand; it’s a well-rounded compact SUV that offers practicality, style, and advanced technology. Its efficient engine, spacious interior, and robust safety features make it a compelling choice in the compact SUV market. Whether for daily commuting or adventurous outings, the Corolla Cross proves to be a worthy companion. Just like how Capri Sun gave us bigger packaging without compromising the taste, Toyota has taken the best aspects of the Corolla and enhanced them in the Corolla Cross, creating a vehicle that meets the needs of modern drivers.
Watch the Full video review of The Toyota Corolla Cross here
