2022 Toyota Corolla Cross | Review & Road Test

This is the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross.

Built on the TNGA-C platform shared with the Toyota Corolla, the Prius, and the Lexus UX, this little guy finally positions Toyota to properly compete in the small SUV space versus names like the Honda HR-V, Kia Seltos, Subaru Crosstrek, and Chevrolet Trax.


For added context, the Corolla Cross nestles snuggly size-wise between the Toyota RAV4 and the smaller Toyota C-HR. But unlike the front-drive-only C-HR, you can get your Corolla Cross with all-wheel drive for a very modest $1,300.


If you want the all-weather traction of all-wheel drive, Toyota’s system only imposes a modest fuel economy penalty. (FWD 31city/33hwy AWD 29city/32 hwy).

In fact, among small SUVs the Corolla Cross is one of the more efficient choices.

Though I didn’t notice a major difference in ride sophistication between the front and all-wheel drive versions I should mention that the all-wheel-drive Corolla Cross benefits from a multi-link rear suspension versus the front-drive version’s comparatively simple torsion-beam rear. And, last all-wheel-drive note, with more than 8 inches of ground clearance you actually can take your Corolla Cross to semi-rugged destinations. Hey, the road to kayaking isn’t always paved.


Rounding out the technical preamble, power comes from a 2.0L 4-cylinder making what I would describe as adequate power (169hp, 150 lb-ft).

No, the Corolla Cross is not quick. But the small SUV segment isn’t known for quickness.

In contrast, while the Honda HR-V weighs a couple hundred pounds less than Toyota Corolla Cross, but the HR-V makes notably less power (141 hp, 127 lb-ft) horsepower.


I will add that though power is distributed via a continuously variable transmission when driving like a respectable citizen power delivery feels just fine.

I’ll bet what you really want to know is how my impressively average body fits in the Corolla Cross. Well, I’m happy to help.

Adding to the Corolla Cross’s practical side is a roomy cargo area aft of the standard 60/40 split rear seats offering about 26 cu-ft to work with. Also, if you have plans to tow, know that the Corolla peaks at 1,500 lbs.


Before moving on, let’s discuss interior quality. On this base L trim, hard plastic dominates, and fake stitching abounds, but move up a trim or two and the door uppers turn soft and the seats transform from cloth to leatherette.

For the category, the cabin is an agreeable and well-arranged space.

And bonus points for including standard rear vents, Toyota. My daughter thanks you.


Light steering efforts at slow speeds. The small size makes it quite parkable. Good visibility out. Smooth ride over big bumps. Tuned for comfort, not sportiness. Slow steering hinders fun.


Regarding price, the cheapest Corolla Cross L trim costs $22,195 plus $1,215 in destination charges. At that price the L Trim comes equipped with 9 airbags, a full suite of active driver assist technology including full-speed dynamic cruise control, and a 7-inch touchscreen, though the higher LE and XLE trims come with an 8-inch screen.


This is the 7-inch screen and I find it extremely easy to use, I like the physical buttons for sub-menus, and I like that CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity comes standard. However, a little more flash might be nice. Like, try adding any color that’s not blue.


If it were me, I’d choose the mid-grade LE trim (FWD LE $24,545) to get its alloy wheels, blind-spot monitoring, automatic climate control, wireless phone charging, and smart key functionality.


So, in conclusion, the Corolla Cross is a nicely sized SUV that performs acceptably, is reasonably priced, is filled with helpful features and safety equipment, and wears that coveted Toyota badge.


00:00 2022 Toyota Corolla
0:12 Competitors
0:40 Exterior
1:55 Engine
2:27 Interior
4:09 Driving Impressions

[Ellias]

Scott Kilmer approved this mid size SUV to last forever, I tested my friend's Corrola Cross and totally loved with it. Very comfortable as Lexus NX series but on cheaper side.

[jeanni]

I got mine in the beginning of June. I, absolutely, love

[JasonWadenr]

I’ve always loved Micah Muzio as a reviewer. Been watching your guys videos since about 2005. Thank you for always making the best quality content.

[JR_Villablanca-de-Mendoza]

I like it!!! The form of the vehicle could look better (though this is only personal preference and others will love its shape), but the space, functionality, price, technology, and fuel economy are on point!!! Thank you KBB! Thank you Mr. Muzio!

[laclauditasvlogs]

Well my husband been telling me to get a Corolla but I like suvs so now I can tell him go ahead babe get me the new Corolla Cross 😎😄👍🏻

[fuffthebucks]

When these are ten years old this will be the perfect winter beater or first car

[OffroadTV]

*I've never been much of an SUV person yet this corolla cross for some reason has sort of sparked my interest
*

[MandusahRamirez]

We are living in the 80’s all over again! There’s a FWD Corolla Sedan/Hatch/Wagon 4WD, A RWD Coupe & Hot Hatch GR!💚

[christineday]

I had a Toyota Matrix for YEARS! And, I loved it. This looks like a perfect little SUV for my active Florida lifestyle.

[gabrielrogers]

Micah and a Corolla cross two great ways to start the morning ! Much love brother !

[moosedoggy]

Streets are probably gonna get filled with these. Every time I am in a traffic it's mostly Toyota Corollas and RAV4 around.

[farcinue]

Toyota did well for this category. I like the CHR, but it also looks like an anime spaceship. While this is not exciting, it looks good as a mini suv. “Adequate” hp is much better than the “underpowered” offerings in this sub compact class.

[moremoola]

If there's a hybrid version, I'm so sold. Great job Toyota oh and you too Micha...

[bonanza]

We rented a Cross in Sonoma for the weekend. Very comfortable, good handling and plenty of room for 4 with luggage. Up and down the hills to the wineries, in town and to the coast and back. 38 mpg, and not a hybrid.

[jxmar_]

The LE is very impressive for an LE. Toyota doesn’t usually load up LE models

[scotttet]

Toyota is the best brand name not only in America 🇺🇸 but around the world 🌍 and everyone knows that very well

[americanparser]

"'I'm not gonna say that was fun, but we did change directions." Classic Micah. For the man who knows he needs to pay The Man. My man Micah, master of the backhanded compliment!

Me: So, Micah, tell me you're underwhelmed without telling me you're underwhelmed.

Micah: Here, Brian, hold my beer.

[moonsapling]

I hope the Corolla cross doesnt kill off the normal sedan and hatchback Corollas. I mean it is a neat little crossover, however I still like the Corolla sedan a bit more. It is lower so it handles better and as a sedan looks more elegant to me. To each their own I guess :)

[VirtousStoic]

OMG MICAH IS BACK OMG WOW WE LOVE YOU. SO HAPPY FOR YOUR RETURN

[Hellanissan]

I wish they would’ve just named it the “Rav 2”. Would’ve been way easier.