Toyota thrills with another small SUV, Corolla Cross

Toyota has taken its popular Corolla car to a new level as it unveils a crossover version of the model called the Corolla Cross.

The new vehicle, according to the Car Connection, shares architecture with both the Corolla sedan and the RAV4 crossover SUV.

Built in the United States, the Cross comprises familiar parts but sized to tackle a whole new niche of small SUVs such as the VW Taos and Nissan Rogue Sport.

This model was first shown for global markets last year and will be making its way to the US later this year as a 2022 model. Car and Driver, in its review, says it has a taller body than the Corolla sedan and hatchback, optional all-wheel drive, and black plastic body cladding, adding, “It fits all the basic requirements for the subcompact SUV segment in which it will compete.”

The Corolla Cross is said to be far more conventional-looking when compared with Toyota’s other subcompact SUV, the C-HR.

It is also found to be longer, wider and taller, with more rear-seat room and a few extra cubic feet of cargo space.

But it’s still significantly smaller than the RAV4 and should be a lot cheaper, too, says Car and Driver.

The standard engine is the same as the Corolla sedan’s upgrade motor, a 2.0-litre inline four with 169 hp and 150 pound-feet of torque.

An CVT automatic is the only transmission choice, and front-wheel drive is standard with all-wheel drive optional. Toyota says up to 32 mpg combined, and the Corolla Cross is rated to tow up to 1500 pounds.

Interior

Inside, the crossover looks much like its sedan stable mate, with a similar dashboard design and a tablet-style infotainment screen that sprouts out of the centre stack. The Corolla Cross is a five-seater with 60/40 split-folding rear seats; passengers back there enjoy standard air vents and optional USB ports, and a power liftgate is optional too.