2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid CVT AWD (199 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Creating a small-sized crossover based on the Corolla’s platform was just one step made by Toyota to gain an advantage in this market segment, but adding the hybrid version was the right way to do it.

But the Japanese automaker didn’t start with that when it launched the Corolla Cross on the American Continent for the 2022 model-year. Still, the carmaker said that it would eventually launch a hybrid version in early 2023 for the 2024 model-year, and that’s what it did at the NYIAS in April 2023. Along with the new drivetrain, the vehicle also featured some styling updates.

Thus, the front fascia received a broader black grille that covered most of the front lower bumper. In addition, the design of the upper air intake was redesigned and featured a body-colored horizontal slat interrupted by the company’s logo. In the back, there were no significant differences. Even though it looked very similar to its European sibling, it wasn’t identical.

Inside, the U.S. version of the Corolla Hybrid surprised its customers with regular analog dials inside the instrument cluster. The large tachometer and speedometer also housed the gauges for the coolant’s temperature and the fuel level, respectively. In addition, atop the center stack, in a free-floating position, the automaker installed the touchscreen for the infotainment system.

But the most crucial upgrade was for the drivetrain. Here, the Japanese automaker installed a gasoline engine that moved the front wheels, while an electric motor could kick in when needed, powering the rear axle.