The small Toyota Corolla Cross SUV arrived late last year, sitting below its highly
popular RAV 4 sibling. Best described as a high-riding Corolla. Three pure petrol
models and five hybrid and depending on model front or all-wheel drive. Pricing
runs from $33,000 to $49.050. I drove the top Corolla Cross Atmos Hybrid AWD at
around $54,000 drive-away. A lot of money for a small SUV and pushing well into
larger RAV 4 territory. Featuring a 2.0-litre 112kW petrol engine aided by an 83KW
front electric motor and a 30kW on-demand electric motor on the rear – part of
Toyota’s latest fifth-generation hybrid system linked to a CVT automatic
transmission. Front drive variants feature torsion beam rear suspension whereas
the all-wheel drive hybrids gain a superior multi-link rear end. The comfort,
convenience and technology features are high in a cabin that’s roomy, practical
and functional although in drab grey colours lacks excitement. Featuring leather
seats, heated, and power operated for the driver, a 360-degree rear view camera,
wireless phone charger, larger 18-inch alloy wheels and a rather prominent high-
mounted 10.5-inch touch screen. Downsides on this top-spec hybrid AWD – a
smaller boot space to the front drive Corolla Cross models and an inflator kit
rather than a space saver spare wheel. Drive impressions next. I’m David Berthon

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