2023 Toyota Corolla Cross: Review, Specs & More!

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross, a vehicle that’s been making waves in the compact SUV market. If you're looking for a reliable, practical, and fuel-efficient ride with a touch of style, the Corolla Cross might just be your perfect match. Let’s get into it!

What is the buzz about?

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross is essentially the SUV version of the ever-popular Corolla. It slots in below the RAV4 in Toyota's lineup, offering a more compact and affordable option. Think of it as the sweet spot between a hatchback and a full-blown SUV. It retains the Corolla's reputation for reliability and efficiency while adding the versatility of a higher ride height and available all-wheel drive. The Corolla Cross enters a crowded segment with established rivals like the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30, and Subaru Crosstrek. However, its blend of Toyota's dependable engineering, a comfortable interior, and a competitive price point makes it a compelling choice. Whether you're a daily commuter, a small family, or an adventurer looking for a vehicle that can handle a bit of everything, the Corolla Cross aims to deliver.

The 2023 Corolla Cross is available in three main trims: L, LE, and XLE. Each trim level offers a different set of features and amenities, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. The base L trim comes standard with features like a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and Toyota Safety Sense suite of driver-assistance technologies. Stepping up to the LE trim adds features like alloy wheels, an 8-inch touchscreen, and automatic climate control. The top-of-the-line XLE trim includes premium features like SofTex-trimmed seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a blind-spot monitoring system. Regardless of the trim level you choose, the Corolla Cross offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior. The design is simple and functional, with easy-to-use controls and plenty of storage space. The seats are supportive and comfortable, making it a great choice for long drives. Overall, the interior of the Corolla Cross is a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip.

In terms of performance, the 2023 Corolla Cross is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 169 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. While this may not sound like a lot, it's adequate for most driving situations. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to maximize fuel efficiency. The Corolla Cross is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The front-wheel-drive model is the most fuel-efficient, while the all-wheel-drive model provides better traction in slippery conditions. On the road, the Corolla Cross offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. While the Corolla Cross is not a sports car, it's a competent and capable vehicle that's well-suited for daily driving. It's also surprisingly fun to drive on winding roads, thanks to its nimble handling and responsive steering.

Performance and Handling

Let's talk performance. Under the hood, the 2023 Corolla Cross packs a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 169 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. Now, this isn't going to win any races, but it’s perfectly adequate for daily driving. The engine is paired with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which prioritizes fuel efficiency. Speaking of which, the front-wheel-drive model gets an EPA-estimated 31 MPG combined, while the all-wheel-drive version gets 30 MPG. That’s pretty solid for an SUV! The handling is decent; it’s not sporty, but it's stable and predictable. The suspension soaks up bumps nicely, making for a comfortable ride. Whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Corolla Cross feels composed and easy to handle. Plus, the available all-wheel drive gives you extra confidence in challenging weather conditions. For those who prioritize practicality and fuel economy over blistering speed, the Corolla Cross delivers. The engine is smooth and responsive, and the CVT does a good job of keeping the engine in its optimal power range. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Overall, the Corolla Cross offers a pleasant and enjoyable driving experience.

One of the key strengths of the 2023 Corolla Cross is its fuel efficiency. The front-wheel-drive model gets an EPA-estimated 31 MPG combined, while the all-wheel-drive version gets 30 MPG. These numbers are impressive for an SUV, and they make the Corolla Cross a great choice for budget-conscious buyers. In real-world driving, I found that the Corolla Cross consistently delivered fuel economy that was close to the EPA estimates. This is due in part to the efficient CVT, which helps to keep the engine in its optimal power range. However, it's also a testament to the overall engineering of the vehicle. Toyota has clearly prioritized fuel efficiency in the design of the Corolla Cross, and the results are impressive. If you're looking for an SUV that won't break the bank at the gas pump, the Corolla Cross is definitely worth considering. It's a practical and economical choice that doesn't compromise on comfort or features.

The 2023 Corolla Cross is designed to provide a comfortable and composed ride, even on rough roads. The suspension system is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and stable ride. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The brakes are strong and provide confident stopping power. Overall, the Corolla Cross offers a pleasant and enjoyable driving experience. It's not a sports car, but it's a competent and capable vehicle that's well-suited for daily driving. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip, the Corolla Cross will get you there in comfort and style. The seats are supportive and comfortable, and the interior is well-insulated from noise. This makes the Corolla Cross a great choice for long drives. The Corolla Cross is also easy to park, thanks to its compact size and good visibility. This is a major advantage in crowded urban areas. Overall, the Corolla Cross is a practical and versatile vehicle that's well-suited for a wide range of driving conditions.

Interior and Technology

Inside, the 2023 Corolla Cross offers a simple but functional design. The materials aren't super luxurious, but everything feels well-built and durable. The seats are comfortable, and there’s decent legroom for both front and rear passengers. The cargo area offers 25.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, which is enough for groceries, luggage, or a weekend getaway gear. Tech-wise, the base model comes with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while higher trims get an 8-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the board, which is a huge plus. You also get Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic emergency braking. These features add an extra layer of security and peace of mind. Overall, the interior of the Corolla Cross is practical, comfortable, and well-equipped with essential technology.

In terms of infotainment, the 2023 Corolla Cross offers a user-friendly system with a clear and responsive touchscreen display. The system is easy to navigate, and the menus are logically organized. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allows you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The available JBL premium audio system delivers crisp and clear sound quality. The Corolla Cross also offers a variety of connectivity options, including USB ports and a wireless charging pad. Overall, the infotainment system in the Corolla Cross is modern, functional, and well-integrated. It provides all the essential features you need to stay connected and entertained on the road. The voice recognition system is also quite good, allowing you to control various functions with your voice. This is a convenient feature that can help you stay focused on the road. The Corolla Cross also offers a variety of driver-assistance technologies, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. These features can help you avoid accidents and make parking easier. Overall, the technology in the Corolla Cross is well-designed and user-friendly, making it a great choice for tech-savvy buyers.

The 2023 Corolla Cross offers a spacious and comfortable interior, with plenty of room for both passengers and cargo. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, making them comfortable for long drives. The rear seats offer decent legroom, even for adults. The cargo area is surprisingly large, with 25.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. This is enough space for groceries, luggage, or a weekend getaway gear. The rear seats can also be folded down to create even more cargo space. The interior of the Corolla Cross is also well-insulated from noise, creating a quiet and comfortable environment. The materials used in the interior are of good quality and feel durable. Overall, the interior of the Corolla Cross is a pleasant and practical place to spend time. It's well-designed and offers plenty of space for both passengers and cargo. The seats are comfortable, and the interior is well-insulated from noise. This makes the Corolla Cross a great choice for families or anyone who needs a versatile and practical vehicle.

Trims and Features

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross comes in three main trims: L, LE, and XLE.

• L Trim: The base model includes features like a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Toyota Safety Sense, LED headlights, and a rearview camera.
• LE Trim: Stepping up to the LE gets you an 8-inch touchscreen, alloy wheels, automatic climate control, and a rear cross-traffic alert.
• XLE Trim: The top-of-the-line XLE adds features like SofTex-trimmed seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, a blind-spot monitor, front and rear parking assist, and a premium audio system.

Each trim offers a step up in features and amenities, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. The XLE trim, in particular, offers a lot of premium features for the price. But even the base L trim provides a solid value with its standard safety features and tech. Choosing the right trim depends on your priorities and what features are most important to you. If you're on a tight budget, the base L trim is a great option. However, if you're willing to spend a little more, the LE or XLE trim will give you more features and amenities.

When it comes to choosing the right trim for the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross, it's important to consider your individual needs and preferences. The base L trim offers a great value, with standard features like a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Toyota Safety Sense. However, if you're looking for more features and amenities, the LE or XLE trim may be a better choice. The LE trim adds features like an 8-inch touchscreen, alloy wheels, and automatic climate control. The XLE trim, on the other hand, includes premium features like SofTex-trimmed seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a blind-spot monitor. Ultimately, the best trim for you will depend on your budget and what features are most important to you. Take some time to compare the different trims and see which one best fits your needs.

No matter which trim you choose, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior. The seats are supportive and comfortable, and the interior is well-insulated from noise. The technology is user-friendly and easy to use. The safety features are comprehensive and provide an extra layer of security. Overall, the Corolla Cross is a great choice for anyone looking for a practical, reliable, and well-equipped SUV. The different trim levels allow you to customize the vehicle to your specific needs and budget. Whether you're a daily commuter, a small family, or an adventurer, the Corolla Cross has something to offer. The affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of buyers. The fuel-efficient engine makes it economical to operate. The spacious interior makes it comfortable for passengers and cargo. All of these factors combine to make the Corolla Cross a compelling choice in the crowded compact SUV market.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Fuel Efficiency: Excellent gas mileage for an SUV.
• Standard Safety Features: Toyota Safety Sense is included on all trims.
• User-Friendly Tech: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
• Available All-Wheel Drive: Provides added traction in challenging conditions.

Cons:

• Engine Performance: The engine can feel a bit underpowered when fully loaded.
• Interior Materials: Some interior materials feel a bit cheap.
• Road Noise: Can be a bit noisy on the highway.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross is a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. Its strengths outweigh its weaknesses, making it a compelling choice in the competitive compact SUV market. The pros and cons are important to consider when making a purchase decision. However, it's also important to test drive the vehicle and see how it feels in person. The Corolla Cross may not be the perfect SUV for everyone, but it's definitely worth considering if you're looking for a practical, reliable, and fuel-efficient vehicle.

When considering the pros and cons of the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross, it's important to weigh your individual needs and priorities. For some buyers, fuel efficiency and safety features may be the most important factors. For others, engine performance and interior materials may be more critical. The Corolla Cross excels in fuel efficiency and safety, with excellent gas mileage and a comprehensive suite of standard safety features. However, the engine can feel a bit underpowered when fully loaded, and some interior materials may feel a bit cheap. These are important considerations to keep in mind when making a purchase decision. Ultimately, the best way to determine if the Corolla Cross is the right vehicle for you is to test drive it and see how it feels in person.

Overall, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross is a solid choice in the compact SUV segment. It offers a good balance of fuel efficiency, safety features, and practicality. While it may not be the most exciting vehicle on the market, it's a reliable and dependable option that's well-suited for daily driving. The pros outweigh the cons, making it a compelling choice for many buyers. The affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of budgets. The spacious interior makes it comfortable for passengers and cargo. The available all-wheel drive provides added traction in challenging conditions. All of these factors combine to make the Corolla Cross a strong contender in the crowded compact SUV market.

Final Verdict

So, what’s the final word? The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross is a practical, fuel-efficient, and well-equipped compact SUV. It's not the flashiest or most powerful vehicle, but it gets the job done reliably and comfortably. If you're looking for a dependable daily driver with good gas mileage and a suite of safety features, the Corolla Cross is definitely worth considering. It’s a solid choice for anyone who prioritizes practicality and value. What do you guys think? Let me know in the comments below!

When it comes to making a final decision about the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross, it's important to consider your individual needs and priorities. If you're looking for a practical, reliable, and fuel-efficient SUV, the Corolla Cross is definitely worth considering. However, if you're looking for a more exciting or luxurious vehicle, you may want to explore other options. The Corolla Cross excels in fuel efficiency and safety, with excellent gas mileage and a comprehensive suite of standard safety features. It also offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior, with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The available all-wheel drive provides added traction in challenging conditions. Overall, the Corolla Cross is a solid choice that offers a lot of value for the money. However, it's important to test drive the vehicle and see how it feels in person before making a final decision.

In conclusion, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross is a well-rounded and practical SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. It's a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and fuel-efficient vehicle that can handle daily driving with ease. While it may not be the most exciting or luxurious SUV on the market, it's a dependable and sensible option that's well-suited for a wide range of buyers. The pros outweigh the cons, making it a compelling choice in the competitive compact SUV segment. The affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of budgets. The spacious interior makes it comfortable for passengers and cargo. The available all-wheel drive provides added traction in challenging conditions. All of these factors combine to make the Corolla Cross a strong contender in the market.