Toyota Corolla Cross GX 2WD and Atmos AWD Hybrid 2023 review

Corolla Cross – Over the last few weeks, we have had the chance to drive the clever Toyota Corolla Cross in both GX 2WD and Atmos AWD hybrid versions.   2022 Toyota Corolla Cross Corolla Cross Atmos AWD hybrid (l), Corolla Cross GX 2WD petrol (c) and Corolla Cross GXL AWD hybrid (r).

This is the entry level and top model respectively and while there are obvious bling and drivetrain differences between them the core underlying vehicle in both is excellent.

Hybrid versions employ a 2.0-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine teamed to an electric motor on the front axle for a combined maximum power output of 146Kw. AWD variants add a second electric drive motor on the rear axle.

Economy for both was around 4.5l/100k and this is outstanding.

Toyota hybrid engine have been around for more than 20 years and they excel in them.

Driving either version is easy, they are zippy around town, cruise comfortably on the motorways and are an ideal urban size. Its like a taller Corolla.

They also happen to look like a smaller RAV4 and that not a bad thing.

However it is a little cramped inside, especially for rear passengers, like many in this size, but it could also do with some more little storage areas.

The Corolla Cross  GX 2WD is priced from $35,500 and the AWD Atmos from around $49,000 plus the usual costs and Toyota will sell a heap of them.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

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  2022 Toyota Corolla Cross GXL AWD hybrid.

Corolla Cross Quick Thoughts

We have previously written about the model details HERE. So we will concentrate on driving impressions in these notes.

Corolla Cross Engine and drivetrain

Powered by a 2.0L Atkinson cycle hybrid engine. This delivers power of 146kW and torque of 206Nm. The GX is a FWD version and the ATMOS is an AWD version with an electric motor driving the rear wheels.

Both come with a CVT that apparently has several steps. It is relatively smooth and way better than a dual clutch transmission.

The hybrid engine is economical. There is no arguing that. We got around 4.5-5.0l/100k on our couple of weeks testing.

This included a bit of everything in driving styles and roads.

However, it’s not a sporty SUV but is more than adequate for its purpose.

Corolla Cross driving impressions

First up its relatively quiet, a combination of good sound deadening and hybrid drive.

The suspension set up and tyres on the Atmos are more complaint than the GX .

Steering is well weighted at parking and cruising speeds around town. It tightens a touch when your playing boy racer. Speaking if which the Atmos isn’t too bad in corners.

I must point out that on occasions the ABS seemed a bit sensitive, going off over some harsh bumps under braking, which pitched the SUV forward and setting off the ABS apparently.

Brakes overall feel a bit spongy as well, but do the job.

The global platform the Corolla Cross sits on allows modern ride and handling characteristics that are simply expected of smaller SUVs these days.

2022 Toyota Corolla Cross Atmos AWD hybrid.

Some more Thoughts

  • Even though the Atmos has leather seats etc, it still feels plasticky. This partly due to the lack of soft touch spots for elbows etc.
  • It is a little pricey across the range but that is normal for Toyota
  • Base model seems particularly expensive for what you get.
  • But you do get most safety features for that price.
  • In the Atmos the 10 inch central touchscreen has good clarity, but doesn’t add a lot of functionality and is SLOW to react and start
  • There is wireless charging, but for smaller phones and wireless Apple CarPlay but not Android Auto
  • Overall storage inside is good though.
  • The APP with connected services, allows external control of a lot of functions and vehicle information, is free for the first year but costs after that and doesn’t seem to add anything useful
  • The electrically adjustable drivers seat with lumbar support is almost worth it for the extra price over the GXL.
  • But the passenger seat isn’t the best for taller passengers that seem to be like Lurch from the Adams Family sitting there.
  • Rear seats are relatively spacious, comfortable and well catered for with two USB outlets.
  • Boot space is small.

Corolla Cross Final thoughts

The entry level GX Hybrid is good. There are some limitations but overall, it’s a worthy contender.

The AWD Atmos hybrid is full of the bling and comfort features. It’s the best but priced accordingly.

Somewhere in the middle is the GXL AWD Hybrid or even the Atmos 2WD Hybrid. Reasonably priced, gets all the safety features and same performance.

2022 Toyota Corolla Cross Atmos AWD hybrid.

Corolla Cross pricing*

 1 – GX Petrol: $33,000

2 -GX Hybrid 2WD: $35,500

3 – GXL Petrol: $36,750

4 – GXL Hybrid 2WD: $39,250

5 – GXL Hybrid AWD: $42,250

6 – Atmos Petrol: $43,550

7 – Atmos Hybrid 2WD: $46,050

8 – Atmos Hybrid AWD: $49,050

2022 Toyota Corolla Cross GX 2WD petrol.

What is good?

  • Fluid Hybrid economy
  • Stylish design
  • Frugal to run in fuel and service costs

What is not so good?

  • There is lots of plastic in the interior
  • No full-size spare
  • Infotainment system a little slow to react

Some more Corolla Cross Articles

Also look at:

Toyota Corolla Cross sits in a very competitive segment, the smaller Urban SUV segment is packed with good choices. But hybrids are not as common.

Buyers could look at obviously its close cousin the Kia Niro Hybrid,  Haval Jolion Hybrid, Mazda MX-30 Hybrid, Subaru XV MHEV,  MG HS, or even the CH-R Hybrid.

2022 Toyota Corolla Cross Atmos AWD hybrid.

Toyota Corolla Cross

 

Model   

Atmos AWD Hybrid

Model Price $49,050 MLP*
Engine 2.0L 4 Cyl, Hybrid petrol Euro 5
Drivetrain 1 Sp CVT e-Four AWD
Battery Capacity / type 4.08kWh / Lithium Ion
Power 112Kw @ 6,600 rpm
Torque 190Nm @ 4,400-5,200rpm
Range (WLTP) / efficiency 1,000Km ADR 4.4L/100k
Fast Charge / Home N/A
Safety 5 Star ANCAP (tested Oct 2022)
CO2 Emissions 101g/100km
0-100kmh/Top Speed 7.6secs / 180 km/h
Servicing 12mth / 15,000km Capped Price
Warranty 5yr/ Unlimited km
Roadside Assist 5Yr. conditional roadside assist

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

2022 Toyota Corolla Cross Atmos AWD hybrid.

Overall Rating    

79/100

Behind the Wheel 8
Comfort 8
Equipment 8
Performance 7
Ride and Handling 7
Practicality 9
Fit for Purpose 9
Style / Appeal 8
Technology / connectivity 8
Value for Money 7

2022 Toyota Corolla Cross GXL AWD hybrid.

Dimensions

 
Overall Length 4460mm
Wheelbase 2640mm
Width 1825mm
Height 16200mm
Wheels 18×7.0J Alloy
Tyres 225/50 R18
Max ground clearance Up to 160mm
Wading Depth N/A
Approach N/A
Rampover N/A
Departure angle N/A
Turning Circle KTK 5.2m
Boot Capacity Min N/A
Boot capacity Max 380L
Battery Weight TBC
Kerb Weight 1550kg
Payload (kg) 435kg
GVM (kg) 2005kg
GCM 2755kg
Towing Capacity 750kg
Tow Ball rating 75kg

2022 Toyota Corolla Cross GX 2WD petrol.

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About Rob Fraser 2507 Articles
Rob Fraser – General dogsbody & Director Rob is the founder of the business. He constantly mutters something about way too many red wines one evening being to blame. Often known for taking the 4WD in the driveway over the sports car, he has travelled pretty much everywhere in Australia and when he is bored goes for a drive. He first learned to drive on the farm in a left hand drive WW11 Jeep when he was 11, and was hooked on 4WDriving way back then. In addition to 4WD he is an avid motoring enthusiast and has maintained a strong interest in the industry ever since his teens. He has owned way too many cars in his time as well. Having previously lived at the top of corporate life he retired in 2000 and hasn’t put a suit and tie on since. Cars are his passion so why not have a business doing what you love he figures. He has towed either a caravan or camper trailer to most parts of Australia, has run guided tours for camper trailers’ and instructed drivers in off road towing.