2022 Toyota Corolla Cross: A Comprehensive Review

Nov 18, 2025 by Alex Braham 50 views

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross! This vehicle has quickly become a popular choice in the compact SUV market. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its performance and features to its pros, cons, and how it stacks up against the competition. Let's get started, shall we?

Overview of the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross

So, first things first, what exactly is the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross? Think of it as the Corolla's adventurous sibling. Toyota took the legendary Corolla name and slapped it onto a compact SUV, aiming to provide the same reliability and fuel efficiency in a more versatile package. It's designed to be a great all-rounder, perfect for daily commutes, weekend getaways, and everything in between. The Corolla Cross sits in a competitive segment, battling it out with other popular SUVs like the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30, and Subaru Crosstrek. It is specifically targeted at young people, especially first-time buyers, young families, and those seeking a practical, efficient, and affordable vehicle. The 2022 model was the inaugural year for the Corolla Cross, meaning Toyota was putting its best foot forward. The base model is fairly basic, but it still includes Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. With that, drivers are treated to a suite of advanced safety features. These include pre-collision systems with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, and dynamic radar cruise control. The LE and XLE trims add even more goodies, such as blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and more advanced infotainment features. The Corolla Cross is a great vehicle that is also easy to handle. The car's compact size makes it simple to park and maneuver in crowded city streets. This also gives the car impressive fuel economy. This blend of features, fuel efficiency, and Toyota's renowned reputation makes the Corolla Cross a strong contender in the market. The Corolla Cross is built on the same TNGA-C platform as the regular Corolla, which means it benefits from the same focus on safety, ride quality, and a well-built chassis. Plus, the Corolla Cross is available in both front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations, offering drivers the flexibility to choose the setup that best suits their needs and driving conditions. The Corolla Cross is also a very practical car that boasts a decent amount of cargo space for its size. The interior is well-designed and features user-friendly controls, making it easy to live with day in and day out. The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross is a solid entry into the compact SUV market, offering a compelling blend of practicality, efficiency, and safety.

Performance and Driving Experience of the 2022 Corolla Cross

Let's get down to brass tacks: how does the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross actually drive? Under the hood, you'll find a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 169 horsepower. It's not a powerhouse, mind you, but it provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps maximize fuel efficiency. Speaking of which, the Corolla Cross shines in this department. The EPA estimates it gets around 31 mpg combined for FWD models and 30 mpg combined for AWD models. That's some serious savings at the pump, especially with today's gas prices! The driving experience is generally smooth and comfortable. The suspension is tuned for a balance of ride comfort and handling, so it soaks up bumps reasonably well. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spots. The CVT is generally well-behaved, though some drivers might miss the responsiveness of a traditional automatic transmission. The acceleration is adequate for most situations, but you might find yourself wanting a bit more pep when merging onto the highway or passing other vehicles. However, the Corolla Cross is not designed to be a sports car. It excels as a comfortable, efficient, and easy-to-drive daily commuter. The AWD system, available as an option, provides added confidence in challenging weather conditions, like rain or snow. It distributes power to the wheels that need it most, helping maintain traction and stability. Toyota has a reputation for reliability, and the Corolla Cross is expected to uphold that standard. The engine and transmission are proven components, and the overall build quality is generally good. This means you can expect years of trouble-free service. The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross prioritizes fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride over outright performance. The car's engine isn't going to blow you away, but it provides enough power for daily use. The driving experience is relaxed and predictable, making it a great choice for those who value practicality and efficiency. The Corolla Cross shines as a commuter car and is perfect for trips around town, and long highway journeys.

Interior, Technology, and Features of the 2022 Corolla Cross

Alright, let's peek inside the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross and see what goodies it offers. The interior design is simple and functional, with a focus on ease of use. The materials are generally of good quality, although you won't find any luxurious appointments. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. The dashboard layout is clean and uncluttered, with all the controls within easy reach. The infotainment system is centered around a touchscreen display, which varies in size depending on the trim level. The base L trim gets a 7-inch touchscreen, while the LE and XLE trims get an 8-inch screen. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can easily integrate your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The base models include a six-speaker audio system, and higher trims get a premium JBL audio system. The Corolla Cross is packed with tech, including the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite. This includes features like pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, and dynamic radar cruise control. Some trims include blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and parking assist. The Corolla Cross offers a decent amount of cargo space for its size. The rear seats fold down to create a larger cargo area, and the load floor is relatively flat, making it easy to load and unload items. The overall interior experience is positive. The seats are comfortable, and the controls are easy to use. The infotainment system is user-friendly, and the tech features enhance safety and convenience. The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross aims to be practical and user-friendly, and it largely succeeds. The interior design is functional and well-executed, with a focus on comfort and ease of use. The infotainment system is easy to learn and operate, and the tech features enhance safety and convenience. The Corolla Cross is a great choice for those who prioritize practicality and a comfortable driving experience. The Corolla Cross is an appealing option for those who want a practical and feature-rich SUV.

Pros and Cons of the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross

Like any car, the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's weigh the pros and cons to give you a clearer picture:

Pros:

Fuel Efficiency: The Corolla Cross offers excellent gas mileage, saving you money at the pump. This is one of its biggest selling points, especially in today's market.
Reliability: Toyota has a stellar reputation for reliability, and the Corolla Cross is expected to uphold that standard. You can count on it to provide years of dependable service.
Safety Features: Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 is standard, providing a comprehensive suite of safety features that help protect you and your passengers. It gives you peace of mind on the road.
Comfortable Ride: The suspension is tuned for a smooth and comfortable ride, making it a pleasant vehicle for daily commutes and longer journeys.
Practicality: The Corolla Cross offers a decent amount of cargo space for its size and features a user-friendly interior.

Cons:

Engine Performance: The 2.0-liter engine is adequate, but it's not particularly powerful. You might find yourself wanting more pep, especially when merging onto the highway or passing other vehicles.
Interior Design: While functional, the interior design is rather basic and lacks any luxurious touches. Some might find it a bit bland compared to other SUVs in its class.
Infotainment System: Although user-friendly, the infotainment system is not the most advanced or feature-rich compared to some competitors.
Limited Off-Road Capability: The Corolla Cross is primarily designed for on-road use and doesn't offer any serious off-road capabilities.
Price: While the Corolla Cross is generally affordable, the price can increase as you add more features and options. You must weigh the features offered to ensure it meets your budget.

Trim Levels and Pricing of the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross

Now, let's take a look at the different trim levels and pricing for the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross. The Corolla Cross is available in three main trim levels: L, LE, and XLE. Each trim level offers a different set of features and options, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.

L Trim: The base L trim is the most affordable option, offering essential features like the 2.0-liter engine, CVT, Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, a 7-inch touchscreen, and a six-speaker audio system. This is a great choice for those who want a reliable and fuel-efficient SUV without breaking the bank.
LE Trim: The LE trim adds a few extra features, such as larger 17-inch alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and roof rails. This trim offers a nice balance of features and value.
XLE Trim: The top-of-the-line XLE trim includes all the features of the LE trim, plus additional upgrades like SofTex-trimmed seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and front and rear parking assist with automatic braking. This trim provides a more premium experience.

The starting price for the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross is around $23,000 for the base L trim. The LE trim starts around $25,000, and the XLE trim starts around $27,000. These prices are just estimates, and the actual price may vary depending on the options and packages you choose, as well as the dealership and the location. The 2022 Corolla Cross offers a range of trim levels to suit different budgets and needs. The L trim offers great value, while the LE trim provides a good balance of features and value. The XLE trim provides a more premium experience with all the bells and whistles. The prices are competitive within its segment, making the Corolla Cross an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.

How the 2022 Corolla Cross Compares to the Competition

Let's see how the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross stacks up against some of its main rivals, like the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30, and Subaru Crosstrek.

Honda HR-V: The HR-V is known for its spacious interior and versatile cargo space. The Corolla Cross excels in fuel efficiency and reliability. The HR-V has a slightly more upscale interior design.
Mazda CX-30: The CX-30 offers a more stylish design and a more engaging driving experience. The Corolla Cross is more focused on practicality and value. The CX-30 may offer a better driving experience, while the Corolla Cross is more practical.
Subaru Crosstrek: The Crosstrek offers standard all-wheel drive, making it a good choice for those who live in areas with inclement weather or who enjoy off-road adventures. The Corolla Cross shines in fuel efficiency and reliability. The Crosstrek is a better choice for adventurous drivers, while the Corolla Cross is better suited for daily commutes.

The Corolla Cross is a strong competitor in this segment. It offers a great blend of fuel efficiency, reliability, and safety features. The Honda HR-V provides more interior space, while the Mazda CX-30 offers a more engaging driving experience. The Subaru Crosstrek offers standard all-wheel drive. The best choice depends on your priorities and driving needs. The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross stands out as a reliable and fuel-efficient compact SUV, making it a great choice for those who prioritize practicality and value.

Conclusion: Is the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross Right for You?

So, after everything we've covered, is the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross the right car for you? If you're looking for a compact SUV that's fuel-efficient, reliable, and packed with safety features, then the Corolla Cross is definitely worth considering. It's a great choice for daily commutes, running errands, and even weekend getaways. It's not the most exciting car to drive, and the interior design is fairly basic, but it excels in the areas that matter most to many drivers. The Corolla Cross prioritizes practicality, fuel efficiency, and peace of mind. If you value those qualities, then you'll likely be very happy with the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross. However, if you're looking for something with more power, a more luxurious interior, or a more engaging driving experience, you might want to consider some of its competitors. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to test drive it and see how it feels. Happy car hunting, guys!