2022 Toyota Corolla Cross XLE AWD Review

One vehicle we have been patiently waiting to test was Toyota’s all-new 2022 Corolla Cross SUV. This smaller-than-compact five-passenger crossover SYV is aimed at the market just under the hugely popular, industry-leading RAV4. Based on our time with the Corolla Cross, we feel that it does an admiral job of filling that role.

2022 Corolla Cross- What Is It?
The new Corolla Cross is a small crossover with a wagon-like shape. It is a bit smaller than the RAV4, and it will compete head-to-head with Honda’s excellent HR-V, which itself was recently updated.

2022 Corolla Cross- What Powers It?
The Corolla Cross is powered by a 2.0-liter gas-only engine. The engine works grudgingly with a constantly-variable transmission (CVT). The engine is rated at 169 peak hp. Like the Honda HR-V, the engine seems underpowered in almost all situations other than highway cruising. Our MPG was 31 during a mix of suburban and highway driving. There is a hybrid version of the Corolla Cross, and we would strongly recommend that shoppers consider that powertrain.

2022 Corolla Cross- How Is The Drive?
We quite liked the Corolla Cross’s handling and road comfort. It seemed average for the segment, which is not a bad thing. The lack of power and no sport mode to wake up the powertrain meant that we often were underwhelmed with the responsiveness of the Corolla Cross XLE.

2022 Corolla Cross- How Is It as an SUV?
The Corolla Cross we tested had all-wheel drive, a roof rack, and a spare tire. The cargo area had a load floor that was easy to use. The seats split and fold. Overall, this little crossover checks off most of the SUV boxes most drivers will need or want. We would not suggest anyone consider towing with this vehicle.

2022 Corolla Cross- Content and Infotainment
Our XLE trim had plug-in type Android Auto and heated seats. There was a USB port i the rear seat area as a bonus. These were the notable options.

2022 Corolla Cross XLE AWD- What Does It Cost?
The 2022 model year vehicle we tested had an MSRP and destination charge totaling $33,550. By contrast, a better-equipped 2023 Honda HR-V we tested had a price of $30,590.

2022 Corolla Cross XLE AWD - Conclusion
Loyal Toyota shoppers looking for a smaller and less expensive crossover SUV than the RAV4 will find it in the Corolla Cross. While we feel that the Toyota RAV4 Prime is easily the best model in its segment, we have some reservations about saying the same about the Corolla Cross XLE AWD. Shoppers may also wish to consider the Honda HR-V, Subaru Crosstrek, Hyundai Kona, and Mazda CX-30.

Images of 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross provided by Toyota.

John Goreham is a long-time New England Motor Press Association member and recovering engineer. John's interest in EVs goes back to 1990 when he designed the thermal control system for an EV battery as part of an academic team. After earning his mechanical engineering degree, John completed a marketing program at Northeastern University and worked with automotive component manufacturers, in the semiconductor industry, and in biotech. In addition to Torque News, John's work has appeared in print in dozens of American news outlets and he provides reviews to many vehicle shopping sites. You can follow John on TikTok @ToknCars, on Twitter, and view his credentials at Linkedin

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