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Japanese automaker Toyota has produced some iconic SUV models. SUVs like the Toyota Land Cruiser and RAV4 have made an impact on the market that won’t soon be forgotten. While many Toyota SUVs are massive successes, not every nameplate is a huge win. Is the Toyota Corolla Cross the worst Toyota SUV in the automaker’s lineup?

The Toyota Corolla Cross doesn’t reinvent the wheel

Toyota is known for innovating, especially when it comes to the development of hybrid technology. The company didn’t exactly reinvent the wheel with the Corolla Cross’ design. The aptly-named Corolla Cross is a larger Toyota Corolla, and that’s just fine with some consumers.

The Corolla Cross exists to cater to a niche market as crossovers dominate the new vehicle market share. Want the affordability and practicality of a Toyota Corolla and the size of a crossover? Toyota has the vehicle for you. It’s tough not to compare the Corolla Cross to its older, more popular siblings. Being the youngest in the family often comes with great expectations.

Consumers shouldn’t expect RAV4 longevity or comfort from a Toyota Corolla Cross. Instead, take the automaker’s latest crossover at face value, and appreciate it for what it is: Toyota’s cheapest SUV. The Corolla Cross is one of 10 different crossover and SUV models listed on the company’s site. Is it the worst option?

The Corolla Cross offers more value than the Toyota C-HR

Toyota offers crossovers and SUVs of every size. The company has great compact, midsize, and full-size options. Toyota’s subcompact SUV, the C-HR, has received less than stellar reviews since its North American debut in 2017. Car and Driver gives the 2022 Toyota C-HR a 5.5/10 overall score.

The subcompact SUV isn’t very spacious, and it lacks enough oomph to be exciting. It’s undoubtedly no Hyundai Kona or Kia Soul. The 2022 Toyota C-HR starts at $23,880. It uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to make 144 horsepower. The subcompact SUV achieves 27 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway.

Car and Driver has given the 2022 Corolla Cross a 7.5/10 overall rating. It provides plenty of value and standard features for its price but isn’t as refined as its rivals. Ultimately, the Corolla Cross isn’t the worst Toyota SUV in the company’s lineup. The C-HR is the true family disappointment.

Is the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross a good SUV?

A white 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross subcompact SUV is driving on the road.
The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross | Toyota

The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross was specifically made for consumers who enjoy the Corolla but desire more room. Its driving dynamics leave much to be desired, but it packs in lots of safety features for $22,195. The Corolla Cross makes a decent small family SUV. It has great gas mileage and gets a combined 32 miles per gallon, making it an economic commuting choice.

The Corolla Cross may seem barebones and unexciting to some, but it delivers on exactly what you should expect from a larger, updated Corolla. Is it a spectacular SUV? Probably not. That being said, it makes a great sedan alternative.

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