The Toyota Corolla nameplate is one that comes to mind whenever the words longevity and high-quality are mentioned. It is the most successful car as far as sales are concerned, and offers a variety of different body types, including the Corolla Cross SUV.
It debuted just last year and the 2023 model comes with the optional hybrid powertrain and some other quirks. Not only will this vehicle be efficient, but it will also be dependable. This is due to Toyota’s solid build quality, subsequent maintenance and parts availability. In the case, if things don’t go according to plan, supply of Toyota genuine parts is available at https://sts-global.com/toyota-parts.
The hybrid model is a step towards the electrification of this car and a stepping stone to zero emissions. It also fixes several of the Corolla Cross’s issues. We take a look at the Corolla Hybrid 2023 below:
Powertrain
We start with the highlight of this vehicle, the engine powering it. This is a 2-liter 4-cylinder that works with a troika of electric motors to produce 196 hp and 140 lb-ft. This is more powerful and torquer than the standard model, which means that it is quicker as well.
It can accelerate from a standstill to 62 mph in just about 7 seconds, which is 2 seconds quicker than the time delivered by the standard model. With this, Toyota has seemingly fixed one of the biggest issues with the Corolla Cross – dull acceleration.
The towing capacity remains the same as the non-hybrid despite the higher power output. Compared to the towing capacity of the models outside America, it has a slightly lower number by more than a hundred pounds.
Mileage
Then you have the fuel economy, which is one of the reasons why this will sell better than the non-hybrid. The manufacturer expects it to do around 45 mpg in the city and 38 on the highway. These numbers are great and should be a huge upgrade over the standard car as well.
Remember, this is a crossover SUV with standard AWD, which makes these figures even more respectable. Of course, the EPA hasn’t rated this car yet but we’ll find out what the organization will have to say with the passage of time.
Interior
On the inside you get a similar interior – of course. This shouldn’t be disappointing as the build quality is pretty reasonable. Also, this car will especially suit those who find the Corolla sedan a bit small for them – it is roomier so more headroom and legroom.
It will also be better equipped than the regular model as far as amenities are concerned. You can further spruce its luxury up by climbing the trim hierarchy. Toyota is pretty generous when it comes to standard equipment, especially the safety features.
Driveability
The basic model is considered to be a boring vehicle to drive that has a noisy engine, so the bar isn’t that high for the hybrid. Well, we’ve already established that it is a more athletic vehicle to drive as it accelerates quicker.
You’ll also be glad to know that the hybrid comes with an upgraded sports suspension that gives better handling characteristics. Along with the firmer suspension, the engine is also quieter and so is the cabin. This is a more comfortable vehicle as a result.
Pricing
The all-new Corolla Cross Hybrid comes with the starting price of almost $29k, which is pretty decent considering that this is what many sedans are beginning to be priced around. However, this is about $5k more than the price tag for the standard model.
Of course, you see a variety of improvements over the non-hybrid in terms of the drive quality and you’ll save thousands on fuel in the years to come. Toyota will also give you an extra warranty for the hybrid components going strong for 8 years or 100k miles.
Verdict
We can definitely root for the all-new hybrid version of the Corolla Cross as it looks like Toyota has listened to its critics. This new engine is not only a lot more efficient than the standard one, it is also more powerful and helps you accelerate quicker. The engine is quieter as well.
They’ve also improved the suspension – having made it sportier – which many believe that it complements the new-found power pretty well. Combine all of this with the decent price difference and the lessening of the carbon footprint, and this is a great deal.
