As a consolation, the 2024 Honda HR-V, its chief rival, is two-tenths of a second slower. Initial thoughts proved accurate when our all-wheel-drive test vehicle delivered a not-at-all-blistering 9.2-second 60-mph time at the test track. Moments into our first test drive, we noted that acceleration was lazy and the engine buzzy, particularly at high revs.

This version uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated for 169 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available as an option. Engine, Transmission, and PerformanceĬorolla Cross buyers have a choice of traditional gasoline or hybrid powertrain, but this review pertains solely to the former.

We rarely recommend the top-spec trim, but the XLE model is the one that offers the equipment that many SUV buyers are looking for, including a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, and handsome 18-inch aluminum wheels. Like most Toyotas, the Corolla Cross features a bevy of standard driver-assistance and safety features, but in this case offers absolutely zero that will raise your pulse rate. Positioned below the larger RAV4 in Toyota's lineup-and serving as the de facto replacement of the unloved CH-R- the Corolla Cross competes with the likes of the Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, Jeep Compass, and Volkswagen Taos. The Corolla Cross's styling is RAV4-lite with a touch of Highlander SUV for good measure the sportier trims add a little visual zest to its curb appeal. As to the “Cross” part of the name, the Corolla Cross gets a three-inch ground clearance increase compared to the standard Corolla hatchback sedan with which it shares much of its mechanicals-but the Cross won’t be stealing 4Runner sales anytime soon. Credit the latter to the standard, wimpy 169-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder and continuously variable transmission (CVT) the Corolla Cross Hybrid ( reviewed separately) adds three electric motors to boost the combined output to a much-zippier 196 ponies. Successful on the first count, it also brings the Corolla’s tepid handling and “it-must-be-on-because-I-can-hear-it” performance. The Corolla name invokes a reputation of affordable trustworthiness, while the “Cross” infers added utility, a touch of contemporary awareness, and a shred of off-road ability. Like the leisure suit and the taco salad, the 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross is an amalgam of old and new intended to widen its commercial appeal.

Toyota corona cross