Corolla Cross Expands Toyota’s SUV Lineup to Every Size

• Longer than Corolla sedan

• Offers Corolla S engine, AWD

---

Toyota USA has just revealed its latest crossover. This time, though, it’s wearing the badge of a car. It’s the Toyota Corolla Cross, and it’s an AWD subcompact SUV that’s meant to fill the almost invisible market gap between C-HR and RAV4.

Based on the same platform that underpins the Corolla sedan and hatchback (as well as nearly every other modern Toyota), at 175.6-inches long, it’s about four inches longer than Corolla. With an identical wheelbase, most of that extra length goes to rear cargo space and front-drive versions will offer 25.5 cubic feet or 24.3 for the AWD model.

That cargo space isn’t far from the 23 cubes the Corolla hatch with the no-spare option provides, but absolutely eclipses the 13.1 of the sedan. In any case, this is a crossover body and has available AWD, so the spec sheet doesn’t really matter.

The only engine is a 2.0L four-cylinder making 169 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque. It’s the same engine (and CVT with a real first gear) Toyota uses in the S versions of the Corolla car.

AWD models can send up to 50 percent of power to the rear and disengage when it’s not needed. This means that while front-drivers have an estimated 32 mpg combined, AWD models should hit 30. All Corolla Cross models can tow up to 1,500 lbs.

Inside is a dash familiar to modern Toyota drivers, looking near-identical to the Corolla. It has a 7.0-inch digital dash screen and an available 8.0-inch touchscreen for infotainment. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, and JBL audio is offered on top trims.

Blind spot monitoring is included on all but the base L trim with XLE adding front and rear park assist. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 is standard on all grades including pre-collision system, lane trace assist, and adaptive cruise.

The exterior is much like that of the RAV4, offering a rugged look instead of the C-HR’s more funky styling. Put a RAV4 through the dryer and you have the idea. While this model has been offered in Asian markets since last year, the US-spec gets AWD, a more powerful engine, and, strangely, no mention of a hybrid.

Toyota didn’t say when the 2022 Corolla Cross will hit dealers but expect it in the next few months.