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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

TO LISTEN TO THE COROLLA CROSS RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

  

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.

Some more Thoughts

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.

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

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.

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)

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

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

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