2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Tested: Three’s Company Too
Toyota has unveiled its new Corolla Cross Hybrid, the first three-row hybrid vehicle from the brand in over a decade. Recently taking to the roads to be tested in a variety of driving conditions, the Corolla Cross is proving to be a “three’s company” contestant in the hybrid market. With a luxurious interior, a spacious third-row seating arrangement, and a comfortable driving experience, the Corolla Cross Hybrid could easily be the crossover hybrid option that a lot of drivers have been looking for.
Starting with the exterior, the Corolla Cross Hybrid looks much like a smaller version of the new RAV4 Prime. It sports a sleeker design with slimmer headlights, bolder body lines, and a more aggressive stance than the standard Corolla. It is slightly shorter than the RAV4 Prime, measuring in at 175.8 inches, but it still has enough room to seat seven people in the three-row configuration and offers an overall cargo capacity of 37.5 cubic feet.
The hybrid powertrain is composed of a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine and two electric motors. The combined output of all three systems results in an impressive 219 horsepower and an estimated 40 miles-per-gallon fuel economy rating. The electric powertrain helps the Cross Hybrid cruise quietly, and Toyota has made safety a priority by outfitting the vehicle with 7Airbag protection, Lane Departure Alert, and Automatic Emergency Braking as standard features.
Inside, the Corolla Cross Hybrid offers an attractive set of modern amenities, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Drivers also have a choice of leather upholstery options, powered front seats, and a 12.3-inch digital display in the gauge cluster. Additionally, the interior is comfortable and well-designed, offering plenty of legroom and headroom for passengers in the second and third rows.
As far as hybrid cars go, the Corolla Cross Hybrid offers a whole lot of value for its price. It’s fun to drive, it’s spacious inside, and it gets great fuel economy. It’s the perfect option for buyers who are looking for a hybrid crossover SUV that can offer more than just savings at the pump. With its sleek styling and impressive performance, the Corolla Cross Hybrid could be the perfect vehicle for those who need a bit more room but don’t want to sacrifice performance.
