Toyota Corolla Cross GX 2WD and Atmos AWD Hybrid 2023 review

Corolla Cross – Over the last few weeks, we have had the chance to drive the clever Toyota Corolla Cross in both GX 2WD and Atmos AWD hybrid versions.   

This is the entry level and top model respectively and while there are obvious bling and drivetrain differences between them the core underlying vehicle in both is excellent.

Hybrid versions employ a 2.0-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine teamed to an electric motor on the front axle for a combined maximum power output of 146Kw. AWD variants add a second electric drive motor on the rear axle.

Economy for both was around 4.5l/100k and this is outstanding.

Toyota hybrid engine have been around for more than 20 years and they excel in them.

Driving either version is easy, they are zippy around town, cruise comfortably on the motorways and are an ideal urban size. Its like a taller Corolla.

They also happen to look like a smaller RAV4 and that not a bad thing.

However it is a little cramped inside, especially for rear passengers, like many in this size, but it could also do with some more little storage areas.

The Corolla Cross  GX 2WD is priced from $35,500 and the AWD Atmos from around $49,000 plus the usual costs and Toyota will sell a heap of them.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

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Corolla Cross Quick Thoughts

We have previously written about the model details HERE. So we will concentrate on driving impressions in these notes.

Corolla Cross Engine and drivetrain

Powered by a 2.0L Atkinson cycle hybrid engine. This delivers power of 146kW and torque of 206Nm. The GX is a FWD version and the ATMOS is an AWD version with an electric motor driving the rear wheels.

Both come with a CVT that apparently has several steps. It is relatively smooth and way better than a dual clutch transmission.

The hybrid engine is economical. There is no arguing that. We got around 4.5-5.0l/100k on our couple of weeks testing.

This included a bit of everything in driving styles and roads.

However, it’s not a sporty SUV but is more than adequate for its purpose.

Corolla Cross driving impressions

First up its relatively quiet, a combination of good sound deadening and hybrid drive.

The suspension set up and tyres on the Atmos are more complaint than the GX .

Steering is well weighted at parking and cruising speeds around town. It tightens a touch when your playing boy racer. Speaking if which the Atmos isn’t too bad in corners.

I must point out that on occasions the ABS seemed a bit sensitive, going off over some harsh bumps under braking, which pitched the SUV forward and setting off the ABS apparently.

Brakes overall feel a bit spongy as well, but do the job.

The global platform the Corolla Cross sits on allows modern ride and handling characteristics that are simply expected of smaller SUVs these days.

Some more Thoughts

• Even though the Atmos has leather seats etc, it still feels plasticky. This partly due to the lack of soft touch spots for elbows etc.
• It is a little pricey across the range but that is normal for Toyota
• Base model seems particularly expensive for what you get.
• But you do get most safety features for that price.
• In the Atmos the 10 inch central touchscreen has good clarity, but doesn’t add a lot of functionality and is SLOW to react and start
• There is wireless charging, but for smaller phones and wireless Apple CarPlay but not Android Auto
• Overall storage inside is good though.
• The APP with connected services, allows external control of a lot of functions and vehicle information, is free for the first year but costs after that and doesn’t seem to add anything useful
• The electrically adjustable drivers seat with lumbar support is almost worth it for the extra price over the GXL.
• But the passenger seat isn’t the best for taller passengers that seem to be like Lurch from the Adams Family sitting there.
• Rear seats are relatively spacious, comfortable and well catered for with two USB outlets.
• Boot space is small.

Corolla Cross Final thoughts

The entry level GX Hybrid is good. There are some limitations but overall, it’s a worthy contender.

The AWD Atmos hybrid is full of the bling and comfort features. It’s the best but priced accordingly.

Somewhere in the middle is the GXL AWD Hybrid or even the Atmos 2WD Hybrid. Reasonably priced, gets all the safety features and same performance.

Corolla Cross pricing^*

 1 – GX Petrol: $33,000

2 -GX Hybrid 2WD: $35,500

3 – GXL Petrol: $36,750

4 – GXL Hybrid 2WD: $39,250

5 – GXL Hybrid AWD: $42,250

6 – Atmos Petrol: $43,550

7 – Atmos Hybrid 2WD: $46,050

8 – Atmos Hybrid AWD: $49,050

Some more Corolla Cross Articles

• Toyota Corolla Cross launch details
• Toyota Corolla Cross SUV Revealed

Also look at:

Toyota Corolla Cross sits in a very competitive segment, the smaller Urban SUV segment is packed with good choices. But hybrids are not as common.

Buyers could look at obviously its close cousin the Kia Niro Hybrid,  Haval Jolion Hybrid, Mazda MX-30 Hybrid, Subaru XV MHEV,  MG HS, or even the CH-R Hybrid.

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

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