With the automotive industry increasingly switching on to electric power, getting into a
new Corolla was like putting on a comfy cardigan. Not that the Toyota favourite that has
been around since 1966 was at all moth-eaten and had seen better days.
Far from it, the latest iteration, the Corolla Cross SUV, unlike back in the day, does not
run on fossil fuel (petrol) alone. With the latest Toyota hybrid system on hand, there are
a few electrons whizzing down the wire here too.
The ‘Cross’ is Toyota’s way of giving its world best seller a genuine lift with added
ground clearance, plus larger cabin with more occupant and cargo space, and the
choice of petrol or hybrid power.
There are three model grades – GX, GXL and Atmos – make up the range, with the
entry-level GX, in front-wheel drive only, coming to market at $36,480, plus on road
costs, with the GXL and Atmos to be had with front- or all-wheel drive for an extra
$3000, or about $40,000 and $54,000, drive-away.
Sitting between the C-HR and RAV4 in terms of size, the Cross utilises the same
platform as the C-HR and Corolla. On test was the GXL front-wheel drive model.
Under the bonnet, the Corolla Cross benefits from the best of both worlds, hybrid
electric vehicles combine the power of petrol a 2-litre petrol engine with the efficiency of
electric motors. While the motor directly powers the wheels, the petrol engine
automatically turns on to support heavy acceleration and high-speed cruising.
Toyota answers the question of the reliability of hybrid technology with a 10-year
unlimited kilometre hybrid battery warranty from the date of the first delivery and capped
price servicing cost of $250 per service for up to five years or 75,000 kilometres,
whichever comes first.
STYLING
A fresh look across the range incorporates a newly-designed grille, LED headlamps and
17-inch alloy wheels.
The GX is distinguished on the outside by LED head and tail-lights, automatic high
beam, daytime running lights, heated and auto retractable door mirrors and a shark fin
antenna.
INTERIOR
Inside, GX grades come standard with automatic climate control, a 7.0-inch digital multi-
information display, electric park brake, smart entry and start, fabric seats, 60:40 split-
folding rear seats and a luggage cover.
The addition of a wireless phone charger and heated and ventilated front seats add
further to comfort and convenience.
The GXL gains combination leather-accented and fabric upholstery, leather-accented
shift knob and steering wheel, electro chromatic rearview mirror, dual-zone climate
control and two extra USB-C ports in the rear of the centre console. Boot space is
generous at 425 litres with seat backs up.
INFOTAINMENT.
A large multimedia display is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both
wireless and with voice recognition as standard. Plus, with Bluetooth and USB
connectivity, music, podcasts and audiobooks are always easily accessible.
The upgraded multimedia system features a larger 10.5-inch touchscreen display and
gains satellite navigation as standard, with extra safety features including a panoramic
view monitor and parking support brake.
Building on the infotainment system, the Corolla Cross features the most
comprehensive Toyota Connected Services of any Toyota model to date, using a data
communication module inside the vehicle and the myToyota Connect smartphone app
to provide real-time remote information and convenience for owners.
Through the myToyota Connect app, owners can undertake such things as remotely
check the status of the doors and lights, access information such as the vehicle’s last
known location and recent trips, or start the engine or climate control.
With the myToyota Connect app there’s remote access to key vehicle functions on a
compatible smartphone. Features include remote start, vehicle locator, access to
vehicle information, and the ability to set driver profiles – all designed to give you greater
visibility and control, wherever you are.
Toyota Connected Services makes use of the Corolla Cross’s inbuilt communication
device, designed to connect you with help in an emergency or a serious accident. It can
even help police track a stolen car.
ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
The 2.0-litre petrol engine is responsible for driving the front wheels only. The engine is
often used to charge the battery, which is controlled automatically, while regenerative
braking occurs when coasting or applying the brake pedal. Power use can be monitored
through the driver’s instrument display.
SAFETY
Toyota SafetySense is one reason for the Corolla Cross earning a five-star ANCAP
rating. Eight airbags surrounding the cabin interior help keep driver and passengers
safe in the event of a serious accident.
A pre-collision system uses the vehicle’s built-in camera or radar and is designed to
alert when a frontal collision is likely and help avoid, or reduce, the severity of a collision
Lane trace assist observes road markings and can make adjustments to help the car
maintain its position by applying extra steering support and sounding an audible alert,
while helping a merge by regulating speed against the vehicles ahead. This helps make
lane changes smooth and helps reduce the risk of collisions with slower vehicles.
DRIVING
The Toyota hybrid system is definitely in control here, with full electric power full on at
low speed or when the vehicle reaches a certain speed. Shifts between the two are slick
and almost silent. Toyota puts fuel economy at 4.3 litres per 100 kilometres on the
combined urban/highway cycle. Best fuel economy on test was 3.9 litres per 100km.
As is the norm with a Toyota, the Corolla Cross carries itself with the assuredness we
have come to expect, even on some of Australia’s weather-worn surfaces, steering
provides direct, positive feedback to the driver and safety tech continues to be on top of
the odd unscheduled incident. Audible alerts are restrained, unlike some foisted on
unwary drivers.
The Corolla Cross backs this up with a quiet petrol/electric hybrid system, allowing
discreet disturbance in the bush to the advantage of passengers coming across
creatures in their natural surroundings. Well done, Toyota.
SUMMARY
Carry on Corolla? What more can you say about the latest small hybrid SUV based on a
world best-seller?
RATINGS
Looks – 8
Performance – 7
Safety – 8
Thirst – 7
Practicality – 6
Comfort – 6
Tech – 8
Value – 7
AT A GLANCE
MODEL LINE-UP
Toyota Corolla Cross GX 2WD $37,440
Toyota Corolla Cross GXL 2WD $41,190
Toyota Corolla Cross GXL AWD $44,190
Toyota Corolla Cross Atmos 2WD $47,990
Toyota Corolla Cross Atmos AWD $50,990
Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport AWD $50,990
Note: these prices do not include government of dealer delivery charges. Contact your
local Toyota dealer for drive-away prices.
SPECIFICATIONS (Toyota Corolla Cross GXL 2-litre petrol hybrid, CVT, FWD SUV)
ENGINE
Capacity: 1987cc
Configuration: four cylinders inline
Maximum power 146kW (combined)
Maximum torque: 206Nm (combined)
Fuel type: Unleaded petrol / electric
Combined fuel cycle: (ADR 81/02) 4.3L/100km
CO2 emissions 96g/km
EV Mode: Hybrid Drive System
Battery: Lithium-Ion
Normal Mode: Power Control Unit
Power mode: Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
DRIVELINE: Continuously variable automatic, FWD
DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT, AND CAPACITIES
Length: 4460mm
Width: 1825mm
Height: 1620mm
Wheelbase: 2640mm:
Turning circle: 10.40m
Kerb weight: 1475kg
Fuel tank: 36L
BRAKES
Front: Ventilated disc
Rear: Disc
STANDARD WARRANTY
Five years, unlimited kilometres (private)
Ten-year unlimited kilometre hybrid battery warranty with conditions
