![]() Like with other Toyota models, every version of the Corolla Cross Hybrid comes with the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 package of safety features. A 4G data connection with a WiFi hotspot is available, as are services like HD Radio, SiriusXM, Apple Music and Amazon Music streaming.Ģ022 Toyota Corolla Cross First Drive Review: Because Crossover Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is included, and two Bluetooth devices can be paired at once. An 8.0-inch touchscreen with attractive graphics and snappy operation is standard across all trims, and it’s got a real volume knob too. The Corolla Cross Hybrid is the latest model to receive Toyota’s hugely improved new infotainment system. I do wish the three drive modes were more distinct switching into Sport or Eco makes little difference to the driving experience. The steering is overly light and twitchy, and the brake pedal is squishy with a fairly big initial deadzone, though neither of those qualities should matter much to the Corolla Cross’ intended buyer. I even think the Hybrid rides better on the 18-inch wheels that come on the XSE, versus the 17s found on the S and SE trims. Updated dampers mean the Hybrid feels smoother over rough tarmac, and road noise isn’t as prominent. There is an EV mode button, but like in other Toyota hybrids it can only be activated at low speeds and doesn’t offer a legit electric range, only lasting a brief amount of time or distance before the engine will kick in.Ī re-tuned “sport” suspension is another change for the Hybrid, and while it doesn’t actually feel appreciably sportier compared to the normal Corolla Cross, ride quality and overall comfort is seriously improved. In mixed driving on the roads around Carlsbad, California, I easily saw 40 mpg without trying to drive efficiently. Toyota estimates the Corolla Cross Hybrid will achieve 45 miles per gallon in the city, 38 mpg on the highway and 42 mpg combined, respective increases of 16 mpg, 6 mpg and 12 mpg over the standard AWD Corolla Cross. But the real point of this new powertrain is fuel economy, and in that regard the Corolla Cross Hybrid impresses. While it certainly feels peppier overall the engine is still pretty coarse and loud, with most of the drone due to the CVT keeping revs annoyingly high at times around town. The Corolla Cross Hybrid makes a total of 196 hp, 27 more than the non-hybrid model, and its 8-second 0-to-60-mph time is more than a second quicker. A 4.1-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack sends juice to an electric motor powering the Hybrid’s rear axle, giving every Corolla Cross Hybrid all-wheel drive. It uses the same naturally aspirated 2.0-liter I4 as the normal Corolla Cross, though total output from the gas engine is slightly lower at 150 horsepower and 139 pound-feet of torque versus 169 hp and 150 lb-ft, and the Hybrid uses an electronically controlled CVT instead of a mechanical one. If you’ve driven an electrified Toyota before, the Corolla Cross’ fifth-generation hybrid powertrain will feel familiar. Cargo space is the same as the regular all-wheel-drive Corolla Cross at 21.5 cubic feet – four cubes less than the gas-powered front-driver, which doesn't need to account for all-wheel-drive mechanicals or the more sophisticated suspension that comes with it – and passenger space remains the same too. The top XSE model has some nicely padded surfaces and quality is pretty good overall, though the Corolla Cross has a weird mix of nice looking finishes and controls, like the metallic climate buttons and knobs and their associated display panel, and then too-cheap switches like the plastic seat heaters and steering wheel buttons. (The fabric seats on the SE look especially cool with the blue accents.) Rear passengers get HVAC vents on every Corolla Cross Hybrid, and the top XSE trim has dual-zone automatic climate control and heated seats up front. That means the Hybrid also gets different wheel designs, blacked-out badges and exterior trim pieces, available two-tone paint finishes that are paired with a black roof, and an awesome new lime yellow color called Acidic Blast.Ĭhanges to the interior are less drastic, mostly amounting to optional blue-trimmed seats. To mark its sportier character – Toyota’s emphasis, not mine – the Corolla Cross Hybrid is offered in SE and XSE grades instead of the LE and XLE trims of the regular Corolla Cross. ![]()
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