Susan Frissell, Editor, Womenwithwheels.com

One may wonder why a Corolla Cross SUV? To fit a nitch, we’re guessing. Suprisingly, Toyota didn’t have a Ute in this category and found the need to utilize the best of this long-running model, the Corolla. A nice looking addition, to be sure, the Corolla Cross made for some easy driving, parking and utility this past week.

A “mini” SUV, the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross will join this popular and crowded market niche. Fitting into the Toyota SUV lineup, the Cross comes between the C-HR and the RAV4. Rivals include the Jeep Compass, Nissan Rogue Sport and Kia Seltos. Good competition. There is much that this new SUV borrows from its predecessor, the ever-popular and by now ‘famous’ Corolla sedan. One will recognize the kinship and appreciate the added cargo room and taller stance.

Where the Cross differs from other in this category is its taller ride height. With a hybrid powertrain, the Cross is able to later include an AWL drive model in 2023.

The Corolla Cross is available in three trim levels: L ($22,445), LE ($24795) and XLE ($26,575). Our test Cross was the XLE edition, loaded with several options including the Audio Plus-8-inch touchscreen , 9 JPL: speakers including subwoofer and ampiflier, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa compatible SiriusXM with 3-month Platinum subscription ($1,465); Tilt and Slide Moonroof and power back door ($1,250); Auto-leveling adaptive Fr. Lighting system ($615), carpet floor mat/cargo mat ($249), Frameless homelink mirror ($175), Door Sill Protectors ($179), Cross Bars ($299), Rear bumper protector ($79), Active Mount ($399).

In our test drives of new models, we often have the pleasure of getting into the top-of-the-line spec trim. Who wouldn’t opt for the top-of-the-line if we could foot the bill. In the Cross’ case, the XLE comes equipped with some useful items that are extras. The Cross does provide equipment that is often sought-after by buyers, including 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats and blind-sport monitoring. Front and rear parking sensors would come in handy for this writer, and we would always choose the 18-inch aluminum wheels.

Front-wheel drive is standard on the Cross, all-wheel-drive optional ($1,300). Our test car came with the AWD, a plus in winter months. We averaged 29/32 mpg with our Cross around town. We didn’t measure highway driving mileage.

Front-wheel drive is standard but all-wheel drive is available for those who need it for an additional $1300.
We found the Corolla Cross very comfortable. The seats were wide and supportive, and passengers in back had extra room. The dash layout and interior materials were much like the standard Corolla 4-wheel-drive model. As expected, there is more room and the additional cargo space. Our XLE came with a leather-wrapped shift knob, center armrest for rear-seat riders and faux leather upholstery.

The infotainment dash was easy to reach and use. All Toyota, the Cross sported a current version of the entertainment , more modern looking, easy to operate (for this writer), and up-to-date Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Sirius XM satellite radio. These offerings are standard. If you need to have wireless smartphone charging, rear-seat USB charging ports and JBL stereo, you’ll pay for those.

Some of the safety features on the Cross include standard lane-departure warning, standard adaptive cruise, and standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection.
We enjoyed our time in the all-new Toyota Corolla Cross and even had it for a few extra days. It is an easy vehicle to drive, park, and came in handy for shopping of some larger items.

SPECS

MSRP: $27,625; Total:$33,550, delivery $1,215
Engine: 2.o-liter w/dual variable valve timing CVT. 169 hp, 150 lb ft torque, 16 valve
Transmission: AWD, variable speed automatic
Seating: 5
Length: 175.6 in.
Width: 71.9 in.
Height: 64.8 in.
Wheelbase: 103.9 in.
Curb weight: 3,170 lbs.
Maximum tow: 1,500 lbs.
gross weight: 4,290 lbs.
Warranty: 5 yr/unliited rust; t yr./60,000 drivetrain; 2 yr/unlimited roadside