By: Peter Gregorian
July 29, 2024
The 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid XSE AWD is a compact SUV that pairs fuel efficiency with sporty flair and forward-thinking technology. Living with the 2024 Corolla Cross for a week, courtesy of Toyota Canada, was an effortless affair, which came as no surprise from a vehicle bearing the “Corolla” nameplate.
Finished in a two-tone Barcelona Red Metallic paint job with a Black Roof, this hybrid exudes youthfulness. As the range-topping model, the XSE variant features a more unique fascia than its gasoline-only counterparts. Furthermore, the 18-inch alloy wheels and LED fog lights help set it apart from other models in the Corolla Cross lineup.
Inside the cabin, comfort is key. The Toyota Corolla Cross XSE features SofTex-trimmed heated front seats, a 10-way power driver seat with lumbar support, and a leather-trimmed, heated steering wheel for a touch of refinement. The heating function for both the seats and steering wheel is activated by physical buttons and switches, which is a refreshing touch in the Corolla Cross. On those cold spring mornings, the dual-zone climate control helped create a toasty cabin when remote start was utilized.
From an interior space perspective, the vehicle has ample front and rear headroom, making getting in and out of the vehicle a breeze. Cargo room felt average, measuring 609 liters (21.5 cubic feet) behind the 2nd row and 1,750 liters (61.8 cubic feet) with all seats flat. If one so desired, a trailer could be used to increase the overall cargo capacity, as the Corolla Cross can tow up to 680 kilograms (1,499 pounds). A convenient feature that pleasantly surprised was the power liftgate with secondary controls for central locking on closure of the trunk—a practical function rarely offered in this segment.
Under the hood, the Corolla Cross XSE houses a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, pushing out 196 horsepower. The vehicle’s Electronic Continuous Variable Transmission (ECVT) and standard all-wheel drive deliver responsive acceleration and a relatively smooth driving experience; however, under heavy acceleration or at speeds above 40 kilometers per hour, the activation of the gasoline motor remains quite apparent.
As expected, the electric motors work in tandem with the gasoline engine to deliver impressive fuel economy. Consequently, fuel economy remains a strong suit of the Corolla Cross, with Toyota claiming 5.2 L/100KM in the city and 6.2 L/100KM on the highway. In real-world testing, the Corolla Cross Hybrid, equipped with the Bridgestone Blizzak LM 001 winter tires, achieved a combined 7.3 L/100KM.
When translating this into real-world metrics, 420 kilometers of range were achieved on a full tank of gas. If one were to fill with regular octane at today’s gas prices, it would equate to roughly $50 per tank—not a bad value proposition.
Technologically, the Corolla Cross XSE is no slouch. A fluid and crisp 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Audio is output through a JBL Premium Audio system with 9 speakers, including a subwoofer and amplifier, which fills the cabin with immersive sound. Unfortunately, the sound tuning and speaker quality left more to be desired when compared to the 2024 Toyota Corolla XSE recently reviewed.
Toyota’s commitment to safety is evident in the Corolla Cross XSE, as it comes equipped with Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0. This standard range of advanced safety features helps keep drivers and passengers safe, and its adaptive cruise control system impressed with its lane-keeping ability and smoothness at keeping with the pace of traffic.
From behind the wheel, the 2024 Corolla Cross Hybrid XSE offers commendable maneuverability. Thanks to its compact form factor and quick ratio steering, the Corolla Cross is easy to navigate swiftly through tight city streets or crowded parking lots. Unfortunately, its neutral, almost weightless steering feel provided little engagement on more spirited drives; however, the all-wheel drive system did an excellent job of redistributing torque and pulling the vehicle through high-speed corners with poise. Ride quality was comfortable even if on the firmer side.
The Corolla Cross model range is available in multiple configurations from front-wheel drive gasoline-only models all the way up to hybrid with all-wheel drive like the XSE. For comparison’s sake, to step into a Corolla Cross, the entry-level L FWD will set you back around $30,715. Notably, there are only two Hybrid trim levels which both come standard with all-wheel drive—the SE AWD starting at $37,655, or the XSE as tested at $39,549. Coming in fully loaded for less than $40,000, with the exception of the optional $540 paint job, makes the XSE an excellent value proposition when comparing it to other alternatives in the compact SUV segment.
To sum it up, the 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid XSE AWD is an SUV that packs comfort and fuel efficiency into a well-proportioned yet compact body. Its hybrid powertrain delivers impressive mileage per dollar, and the all-wheel drive system contributes to a confidence-inspiring driving experience. Despite minor limitations, the Corolla Cross XSE emerges as a practical contender for those in the market for a dependable first car or commuter vehicle.
