Is the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross a Competitive Subcompact SUV?
Toyota recently introduced the Corolla Cross subcompact SUV. The Corolla Cross is a crossover version of the popular Corolla nameplate. The Toyota Corolla has been in production since 1966. It has existed for over half a century. Is the subcompact SUV version of the popular nameplate competitive in its vehicle segment, or does it have a long way to go?
How much does the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross cost?
The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross starts at $23,060 for the L trim. The Corolla Cross LE starts at $25,390. Toyota’s final Corolla Cross trim, the XLE, starts at $27,165.
The Corolla Cross is reasonably affordable, but it’s far from the most affordable subcompact SUV on the market. That title belongs to the 2023 Hyundai Venue. The 2023 Hyundai Venue starts at just $19,500. Its final trim, the 2023 Venue Limited, is just $22,750.
Some of the most competitive subcompact SUVs on the market are also more affordable than the Corolla Cross. The popular Kia Soul starts at just $19,790. The Hyundai Kona starts at $21,990. So, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross’ pricing isn’t competitive because some of the most popular models in its segment are more affordable. What makes the Corolla Cross worth buying?
Is the Corolla Cross worth buying?
The SUV vehicle class is the most popular vehicle class in America because of practicality, utility, and affordability. The Corolla Cross is most appealing to fans of the Corolla looking for a sedan alternative.
If you have already owned a subcompact SUV, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross may not be at the top of your wish list. If you are considering buying your first subcompact SUV, the Corolla Cross is a much more attractive option, especially for Corolla owners.
Japanese automaker Toyota is exceptionally skilled at expanding its portfolio to suit a wide range of drivers. The brand produces rugged pickup trucks, efficient hybrids, and even some sporty sedan trim levels. The Corolla Cross exists between the Toyota Corolla and Toyota RAV4.
It’s an option for drivers that want to enjoy the practicality of an SUV with the fuel economy and pricing of a smaller model. The Corolla Cross may not be a standout model in its segment, but it’s a welcome option for consumers in the brand’s lineup. Car and Driver praises its standard safety features and pricing.
2023 Toyota Corolla Cross vs. 2023 Toyota Corolla
The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross costs $1,510 more than its predecessor, the Toyota Corolla. The Corolla Cross uses the same 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine as the Corolla to produce 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque.
The 2023 Toyota Corolla achieves 32 miles per gallon in the city and 41 miles per gallon on the highway. The larger Corolla Cross gets 31 miles per gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway.
Toyota’s compact Corolla is 183 inches long, 70 inches wide, and 57 inches tall. The Corolla Cross is 176 inches long, 72 inches wide, and 65 inches tall. So, the subcompact SUV is both wider and taller than the Corolla.
Ultimately, the only reason to choose the Corolla Cross over the Corolla is for more cabin and cargo space. Toyota offers optional all-wheel drive for every Corolla Cross trim, which can come in handy for many drivers. If you’re a fan of the Corolla and are interested in a subcompact SUV, the Corolla Cross is a great option. If you want the best subcompact SUV on the market, the Hyundai Kona, Kia Soul, and Mazda CX-30 are better places to start.
