The Corolla Cross has been an immediate success on the SA market, with around 1800 units delivered per months in it's first 2 months on the market.
Not only has this model introduced the first SUV in the history of the Corolla nameplate but there is also a large focus on the hybrid powered models in the range.
Toyota SA kindly provided me with the middle spec XS hybrid for an extended month long test over the holiday period. Instead of the customary 7 day test, this really provide me with the opportunity to live with the vehicle and to experience it as if I had actually put down my own money to buy the car. So, let's think of this test from that perspective.
The Cross is powered by a 1.8l 4 cylinder petrol engine, supplemented by an electric/ hybrid motor. This is a regenerative unit so no plugging in of any sort is required so that removes the dreaded Eskom factor from the equation. The quoted output of the powertrain is 90kW and 142Nm but it certainly feels far stronger than this on the road. Freeway cruising and overtaking are no problem in everyday life.
The engine is matched to the Toyota CVT automatic transmission which is an ideal combination in urban driving. Probably the only complaint that I can level at the vehicle overall is the behaviour when overtaking or going up a steep incline. In those circumstances the engine sounds like it's straining and wishing it could shift up a gear or two. Lifting off the accelerator momentarily relieves this, but it's not an option when overtaking.
The SUV bodystyle provides excellent space all round and the boot measures 440l with the rear seats in place. Our short holiday trip luggage was swallowed with ease. The raised ride height provided easy and stable driving on a stretch of dirt road with the car feeling sure footed and planted.
Remembering that this is a family SUV and not a sports car, the Cross provides extremely smooth and comfortable cruising ability and above average handling through the twisties of a mountain pass.
Leather trim, 5 airbags, dual-zone climate control, infotainment screen with Android Auto and Apple Carplay, cruise control and auto headlights and wipers are all standard.
The ultimate bonus of the hybrid version is, of course, fuel economy. We covered 2100km of very mixed driving during our time and ended with the car showing 5.2l/100km. Enough said, this is exceptional. In my opinion, the R23 000 price premium for the hybrid makes this an absolute bargain.
In summary, the Corolla Cross Hybrid is an easy driving, easy to live with medium family SUV that excels in it's fuel consumption. If this was my money, I would upgrade to the top spec XR version that adds safety features like 7 airbags, active cruise control, blind-spot and cross traffic warning and lane-keep assist to the package for an addition R35 000.
The XS as tested currently retails for R413 000 including a 6 service/ 90 000km service plan plus an 8 year/ 195 000km battery warranty.
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