Kriss Kross was making everyone jump in 1991, and now 30 years later Toyota plans to make drivers jump into the all new Corolla Cross. The Corolla Cross continues the ongoing push to lift normal compact cars to a more functional ride height while adding useable hatch space; don't quite call it an SUV just yet. Compact crossovers are all the rage but this isn't the first time Toyota has had variations within the Corolla brand name, there has been wagons, coupes, AWD variants, and for the 2022 model year it wedges its way between the C-HR and RAV4 as a fierce new competitor in the segment.
The new Corolla Cross rides on the TNGA-C platform that has made the current Toyota lineup successful, it's available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive for true versatility on any surface. The powerplant should be familiar to those in the know about the current Corolla lineup, it's the 2.0 liter Dynamic Force engine paired with the Direct Shift CVT that employs a real first gear to get you off the line quickly before letting Toyota's dynamic transmission deliver power or fuel savings when needed. The 169 horsepower under the hood does a great job delivering fuel efficient gas mileage ranging from 32 MPG for the FWD model and 30 MPG for the AWD model, all while being capable of towing 1500lbs.
Of course power isn't everything, the new Corolla Cross uses a new rigid torsion beam system in the rear for the FWD model and fully independent suspension for the AWD variant; crossover dimensions with compact car handling. Handling is also a safety point and like every Toyota sold today, the Corolla Cross is equipped with the latest in the Safety Sense suite including standard blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alerts on the LE and XLE while the XLE adds on front and rear parking assist with automatic braking.
Anyone shopping for a new compact crossover wants two things versatility and space, the Corolla Cross considers that a standard feature. Inside space is more than adequate with the large trunk area delivering 25.5 cu. ft. of space for the FWD model and AWD losing just about 1 cu. ft. that can still contain what's needed for the most leisure and active lifestyles. The features continue in the spacious cockpit, a power moonroof, single or dual climate controls are optional but rear heating and cooling vents are standard across the L, LE, and XLE range. SofTex-trimmed seating is optional as is a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat with adjustable lumbar support and heat for both the drive and front passenger. Infotainment is handled with a standard 7 inch touch screen and an available 8 inch option for the best multimedia experience with Apple CarPlay, Anroid Auto, and wireless charging for mobile devices on the LE and XLE, rear passengers also have their own USB ports for charging accesories as well (LE and XLE). XLE models come equipped with a foldable armrest with integrated cup holders for comfort which is perfectly paired with an optional power liftgate for ultimate convenience, this can be expanded on with the myriad of cargo related add-on accessories that can be order through Toyota like a Corolla Cross roof rack.
Let's not forget the looks of the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross, it is very different when compared to the Corolla it is based on but in a good way. Raked back headlights with aggressive edges share some of that Toyota DNA seen on the face of other vehicles but black cladding all around give it a level of off-road and city street toughness this new crossover exudes with its presence. On top of it's raised height and beneath the black cladding are optional wheels in the 17 and 18 inch range (XSE) that add style points. Out back the Corolla Cross has an integrated rear spoiler and LED taillights that match the bright headlights up front. This one is a looker in many ways, sculpted to display a subdued aggressiveness which sets the tone for future owners, go anywhere and do anything with the all new Toyota Corolla Cross landing at your local Toyota dealership later this year.
(Photos Courtesy of Toyota Motor Corporation)
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