Toyota Corolla Cross Unveiled With Hybrid Power And Spacious Cabin

Based on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, the Corolla Cross has a new rear torsion-beam suspension that Toyota says provides a stable and comfortable ride. Both hybrid and gasoline variants will be offered, with the former having a total output of 120 horsepower and the gas model producing 138 hp and 131 lb-ft of torque - both use a 1.8-liter four-pot. Toyota claims a class-leading turning radius of 17 feet and responsive handling.

At 176 inches in length, the Corolla Cross slots in between the C-HR and the biggerRAV4. It's a modern, if modestly styled, crossover, with bulbous fenders like the C-HR, although it doesn't appear as rakish as leaked images offorthcoming Toyota electric SUVs. Toyota says that a lightened body contributes to excellent fuel efficiency and, at 2,921 pounds for the gas-only version, the Corolla Cross is actually over 300 lbs lighter than the smallerC-HR.

As always for an SUV, cargo capacity is especially important. Toyota claims a luggage capacity of up to 17.2 cubic feet, which isn't especially impressive considering that the C-HR offers 19.1 cubes. The Honda HR-V has a bigger trunk, too.

In the cabin, Toyota promises plenty of space for occupants and the dashboard design is clearly inherited from the Corolla sedan. In that car, we praised the general layout and improved quality over previous Corollas. In Thailand, the Corolla Cross comes with features like the Toyota Safety Sense suite with pre-collision warning, dual-zone climate control, and rear seats that can recline up to six degrees.

In the Southeast Asian country, the Corolla Cross starts at the equivalent of $30,760 for the gas model, denoted as a "special price". Although we may never see it stateside, the Corolla badge and a fuss-free approach to family motoring should see it sell extremely well.