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    First Drive: 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross Is a Sensible SUV

    This smart new model has easy controls, mild manners, and key safety features

    Update: Since this first drive was originally published in September, 2021, we finished testing the Corolla Cross. See the complete Toyota Corolla Cross and Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid road tests.

    The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross is an all-new choice for shoppers seeking a small, fuel-efficient SUV that comes loaded with key safety features. 

    It fits into the gap between the sporty-looking Toyota C-HR and popular RAV4, and it could be considered the spiritual successor of the boxy Corolla Wagon from the 1990s. 

    more on suvs

    The configurations are simple, with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. There are three trim levels (L, LE, and XLE) and a single four-cylinder engine paired to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Simplicity may be a key part of its appeal as a straightforward SUV without the dramatic styling found on the C-HR and RAV4.

    This SUV can tow up to 1,500 pounds, which is good for a small utility trailer or a personal watercraft.

    The Corolla Cross is among several new and updated models Toyota is rolling out, including the GR86 sports car and Tundra pickup truck. It has built at a new manufacturing facility in Alabama, in collaboration with Mazda.

    Consumer Reports rented a Toyota Corolla Cross from the automaker to gain the early impressions shared below. We since bought and tested a Corolla Cross. Read the complete road test.

    If you haven’t signed up to be a CR member yet, click below to access this full first drive report and all our exclusive ratings and reviews for each vehicle we buy and test. Joining also gives you full access to exclusive ratings for the other products our experts evaluate in several categories, including electronics and home appliances.

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    What we rented: 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross XLE
    Powertrain: 169-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine; continuously variable transmission; all-wheel drive
    Base price: $22,195-$27,625
    Destination: $1,215
    Price as driven: $28,840

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    We investigate, research, and test so you can choose with confidence.


    Jeff S. Bartlett

    Jeff S. Bartlett is the managing editor for the autos team at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2005. Previously, Jeff served as the online editorial director of Motor Trend for 11 years. Throughout his career, Jeff has driven thousands of cars, many on racetracks around the globe. Follow him on X: @JeffSBartlett