The Corolla Cross is a smaller alternative to Toyota’s RAV4 and a more practical choice than the C-HR—and the base version is less expensive than both. This pseudo-wagon is fuel efficient and functional, and has easy-to-use controls, but it feels underpowered and it becomes too noisy inside the cheap-looking cabin when the driver is looking for a burst of acceleration. The Subaru Crosstrek offers a more pleasant driving experience for about the same money.
Still, there are enough positives here to potentially sway some buyers toward the Corolla Cross. For example, our all-wheel-drive test model (front-wheel drive comes standard) managed a respectable 28 mpg overall on regular fuel, just 1 mpg shy of the class-leading Crosstrek and Honda HR-V. It’s also easy to get in and out of, thanks to near-hip-height seats and wide doors. The elevated seating position and large windows make for airy outward visibility for the driver, and there’s plenty of headroom in both the front and rear seating positions. Neither the controls nor the infotainment system are flashy, but they are very easy to use.