The 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross isn’t Toyota’s most impressive model. In fact, it is even rather discreet in terms of style, if we compare it to what the manufacturer has offered us for several years with its traditional Corolla or its new Prius. But that doesn’t matter, since the Corolla Cross has one undeniable quality: it’s worry-free!
Special collaboration, Marc Bouchard, automotive journalist
Offering a remarkable combination of fuel economy (especially in the hybrid version but you have to be patient to have one) and features, this small vehicle from the Toyota family is already attracting motorists looking for a reliable vehicle. and versatile.
It’s true that it’s not spectacular, but the Corolla Cross is not trivial. It adopts a silhouette displaying a certain robustness, it must be admitted, despite its reduced dimensions. Its imposing grille and tapered headlights give it an assertive look, while its increased ground clearance gives it a more SUV-like appearance, as diminutive as it may be.
Under the hood of the version I tested, we find a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine developing 169 horsepower. This engine, coupled with a CVT automatic transmission, offers adequate performance for urban and highway driving.
It’s true that I’ve never been a big fan of the continuously variable transmission in any form. We feel less power and we vaguely have the impression that our vehicle is letting us down with each acceleration. Which is still true in the case of the Corolla Cross, whose engine sometimes purrs with displeasure when accelerating too quickly.
Be careful though, we are talking here about a comment from a demanding automotive journalist, since the majority of drivers will see nothing but fire, not having, like me, a certain intransigence in this regard. Basically, unless you’re really looking for performance, you won’t notice much.
If fans of sporty driving might wish for a little more enthusiasm, the Corolla Cross’s mechanics stand out for their remarkable energy efficiency. Indeed, the average fuel consumption of 7.1 L/100 km is an undeniable asset, especially for an SUV.
On the road, the Corolla Cross is pleasant to drive. The well-calibrated suspension effectively absorbs road imperfections and offers appreciable ride comfort. The precise steering and braking inspire confidence in all circumstances.
When it comes to safety, the Corolla Cross comes with a host of standard driver assistance technologies, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning and blind spot detection.
With its generous 609 liters of cargo space (1,892 liters with the rear seats folded), the Corolla Cross offers great versatility and is an ideal choice for active families.
The problem: it’s not that big in the rear seats, and its appearance definitely makes it less exciting. Don’t let yourself be disappointed at first glance, however, because if you are looking for an efficient and pleasant small SUV, the Corolla Cross is a more than interesting alternative. It hasn’t changed much since its release two years ago (we talked about it in this column) but a new visit confirms that it is still relevant in a rapidly evolving market.
