In terms of its legendary reputation for reliability, Toyota has garnered recognition. The Corolla and RAV4 stand out as their best-selling models. However, amidst the excitement of unveiling products like the GR Corolla and GR 86, Toyota maintains its stronghold by consistently offering unassuming and practical sedans and SUVs. So, what transpires when you blend the ubiquitous Corolla with an SUV? The result is none other than the Toyota Corolla Cross.
The introduction of the Corolla Cross marks another expansion in Toyota’s extensive SUV lineup, joining the ranks of the C-HR and RAV4. Many customers and critics have lauded the Corolla Cross for its sheer utility and practicality, though some have expressed disappointment regarding its performance.
Nevertheless, the focus here is on something other than reviewing the Toyota Corolla Cross but on delving deep into its interior. How does the interior of the Toyota Corolla Cross fare? Is it a pleasant space to occupy? Let’s delve into these aspects.
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Cabin Design and Layout
It’s essential to note that the Corolla Cross is marketed as an affordable SUV, reflected in its cabin. Therefore, those anticipating a luxurious interior with plush materials might be disappointed.
Toyota acknowledges that its vehicles often serve families and are designed to endure some rough treatment, including the all-new Corolla Cross. With that in mind, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross’s cabin exhibits commendable fit, finish, and solid build quality. However, it’s challenging to overlook the presence of budget-friendly materials and hard surfaces inside the house.
The cabin design and layout of the 2023 Corolla Cross will feel quite familiar. If you’ve ever sat behind the wheel of a Corolla or RAV4, the cabin of the Cross should offer a sense of déjà vu. The cabin’s arrangement is orderly and user-friendly, with the dashboard featuring the infotainment screen, compact gauges, and air vents on either end. The design and layout are so familiar that virtually no learning curve is involved.
However, as expected, things do take a turn for the better as you move up the trim levels. Opting for higher trims brings a plethora of amenities, including leather appointments, ambient lighting, satin finishes, and more.
Nonetheless, the interior of the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross can be best described as “designed with a budget in mind.” It embodies simplicity and functionality, which should resonate with many.
Tech and Infotainment Features
While the interior might exude a basic and budget-friendly vibe, the 2023 Corolla Cross compensates with an extensive list of standard tech and infotainment features.
The base Corolla Cross L has an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, you’ll find a range of standard and optional features, including USB ports, Bluetooth, a 30-day trial of WiFi hotspots, navigation with cloud features, and more. As a side note, buyers receive a 10-year trial subscription to Toyota’s Service Connect, which provides personalized maintenance updates and vehicle health reports.
On the LE and XLE models, a Qi wireless charging pad is available for wirelessly charging compatible devices. The highest XLE trim includes a 7-inch digital gauge cluster for real-time driving data, turn-by-turn directions, safety information, and alerts.
All trims have a standard six-speaker system, while an optional JBL Premium Audio system with nine speakers, a subwoofer, and an amplifier is available.
In tech and infotainment features, the 2023 Corolla Cross delivers many excellent standard features without breaking the bank.
Seating, Comfort, and Cargo
The 2023 Corolla Cross can accommodate up to five passengers. Standard comfort features encompass cloth seats, a six-way adjustable driver’s seat, and four-way adjustable passenger seats. Higher trims offer many creature comforts, including leather upholstery, a ten-way adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, a rear folding armrest, dual-zone air conditioning with an air filter, and more.
The cabin dimensions align well with its competitors, offering a slight advantage. Front legroom measures 42.9 inches, surpassing the Kia Seltos and Hyundai Kona. However, rear legroom is limited at 32 inches, falling short of the Seltos’s 38 inches and the Kona’s 34 inches. Taller adults might find the rear seats less accommodating, particularly during extended journeys. Furthermore, while the Corolla Cross can seat five passengers, the middle seat in the rear may not be the most comfortable spot due to the confined space.
Regarding cargo space, the 2023 Corolla Cross boasts a larger-than-average capacity for a subcompact SUV. FWD models offer 26.5 cubic feet of space, while AWD models provide 25.2 cubic feet. This ample space easily competes with the Seltos (26.6 cubic feet) and Kona (19.2 cubic feet). Folding down the seats in a 60/40 split configuration opens up an even more generous cargo area of 66.8 cubic feet (65.5 cubic feet with AWD), surpassing the Seltos and Kona. However, it’s worth noting that the seats don’t fold down completely flat, compromising cargo space and a non-flat load floor.
The 2023 Corolla Cross maximizes cabin and cargo space efficiently while adhering to budget-friendly principles.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
The 2022 Corolla Cross received high safety ratings, earning a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Consequently, the 2023 Cross is expected to maintain the same safety standards as its predecessor.
Every 2023 Corolla Cross comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, a suite of active safety and driver-assist features. This suite includes standard features such as a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Automatic High Beams, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Road Sign Assist. Higher trims include additional safety features like a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Safe Exit Assist, Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking, and a Backup Camera with Dynamic Gridlines.
Overall, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross stands as a vehicle with a strong safety profile.
In conclusion, Toyota’s Corolla Cross offers a budget-friendly SUV option with an interior emphasizing practicality over luxury. While it may not boast abundant materials, it compensates with various tech features and a spacious cabin and cargo area. Safety is a strong suit for the Corolla Cross, making it a viable choice for those seeking a reliable and affordable SUV.