2025 Toyota Corolla Cross

The Toyota Corolla Cross was introduced in 2022 as a crossover companion to the long-running Corolla sedan, designed to give buyers the same reputation for reliability and affordability but in a taller, more versatile wagon body. For 2025, the Corolla Cross continues with incremental updates rather than a full redesign, refining its trims and technology while keeping the same overall formula. It seats five passengers in a two-row, five-door configuration and sits in the highly competitive subcompact crossover segment. Its key rivals include the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, Mazda CX-30, Nissan Kicks, Subaru Crosstrek, and Volkswagen Taos. 

The Corolla Cross lineup is split between traditional gasoline models and the more advanced hybrid. Gas trims include the L, LE, and XLE, all powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 169 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid trims include S, SE, Nightshade, and XSE combine the same 2.0-liter engine with electric motors for a net output of 196 horsepower. The gas models use a continuously variable transmission, while the hybrid employs an electronic CVT. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available on gas models and standard on hybrids. Towing capacity is modest at 1,500 pounds.

Pricing begins at just over $24,000 for the base L and rises to around $31,500 for the Hybrid XSE. Standard features include an eight-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 driver assistance technology, and LED headlights. Higher trims add amenities such as SofTex synthetic leather upholstery, a power liftgate, JBL premium audio, and a sunroof. Toyota also offers the Hybrid Nightshade edition, which emphasizes style with blacked-out trim and wheels. Across the lineup, the Corolla Cross delivers a strong value proposition, with safety and connectivity features included even at the entry level.

The gas engine's performance is adequate for daily commuting but not particularly exciting. Acceleration from zero to sixty miles per hour takes a leisurely 9.3 seconds, which is slower than many competitors. Passing power on the highway requires planning, and the CVT can feel strained under heavy throttle, producing the familiar drone associated with this type of transmission. The hybrid, by contrast, feels much livelier thanks to its electric assist. With a combined 196 horsepower, it reaches sixty in about 7.5 to 8 seconds, making it far more confident in highway merges and overtaking. Though the hybrid's transmission is smoother, and the electric torque gives it a more responsive character in city driving the engine also sounds strained in hard acceleration.

Fuel economy is one of the Corolla Cross's strongest suits. Gas models with front-wheel drive achieve an EPA rating of 31 miles per gallon in the city and 33 on the highway, for a combined 32 mpg. All-wheel-drive versions drop slightly to 29 city, 31 highway, and 30 combined. With a 12.4-gallon tank in front-drive models and a 13.2-gallon tank in all-wheel-drive versions, highway range is around 400 miles. The hybrid is the clear efficiency leader, rated at 45 mpg city, 38 highway, and 42 combined, with a 10.6-gallon tank that yields a highway range of about 445 miles. Real-world reports suggest the hybrid often meets or even exceeds its EPA numbers, while the gas model tends to fall a few mpg short under spirited driving.

The Corolla Cross's all-wheel-drive system is an electronic on-demand setup that sends power to the rear wheels when slip is detected. It is designed for traction in rain, snow, or loose gravel rather than serious off-road use. Driving modes include Normal, Eco, and Sport, which adjust throttle response and transmission behavior. 

Ride quality is tuned for comfort, with suspension that absorbs small bumps well and keeps the cabin composed. Larger potholes and rough pavement can transmit into the cabin, especially on trims with larger 18-inch wheels. Hybrids feel slightly firmer due to their added weight, but overall the ride is compliant and well-suited to commuting and long drives.

Handling is predictable and far from sporty. Steering is light and accurate but lacks any sort of road feedback. Body lean in corners is moderate, reminding drivers that this is a comfort-focused crossover rather than a performance crossover. Braking performance is underwhelming but consistent, with hybrids offering regenerative braking that feels natural and unobtrusive.

Interior noise levels are average for the class. Gas models grow noisy under acceleration, with the CVT producing a noticeable drone. Hybrids are slightly quieter thanks to electric assist, though wind and road noise at highway speeds are still present. Compared to rivals, the Corolla Cross is noisier than the Mazda CX-30 and Volkswagen Taos but quieter than the Nissan Kicks.

The interior design is straightforward and functional, with durable plastics and SofTex upholstery on higher trims. The dashboard layout is clean, with physical climate controls and a modern infotainment screen. It is not a premium cabin by any stretch of the imagination, but it is practical and highly functional. Controls are intuitive, and the infotainment system is simple to operate. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and higher trims add wireless charging and additional USB-C ports.

Technology and safety features are comprehensive. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 includes adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, and road sign assist. Optional features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking sensors, and rear automatic braking.

Seating accommodates five passengers. Front seats offer adequate room, support and comfort, with available power adjustment and heating. Rear legroom is tight at about 32 inches, though headroom is generous. Entry and exit are easy thanks to the higher ride height.

Cargo capacity is class competitive. Gas models with front-wheel drive offer 24 cubic feet behind the rear seats, while hybrids with all-wheel drive provide 21.5 cubic feet. Folding the rear seats expands capacity to about 61.8 cubic feet. Interior storage includes multiple cupholders, door pockets, and up to four USB-C ports, along with optional 12V and AC outlets.

Bottom Line -- In overview, the Corolla Cross's strengths are its hybrid efficiency, comprehensive safety suite, practical cargo space, and somewhat affordable pricing. Weaknesses include modest gas-engine power, limited rear-seat legroom, and cabin noise at highway speeds. Against rivals, the Corolla Cross Hybrid stands out as one of the most fuel-efficient options, while the gas model is less engaging to drive. For most buyers, the Hybrid SE trim offers the best balance of price, efficiency, and features, including blind-spot monitoring and wireless charging.