2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

The Toyota Corolla is one of the best-selling cars of all time, and what better way to capitalize than by turning it into a subcompact crossover SUV and throwing some hybrid power at it? The 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid is an affordable crossover that offers good value for money, peace of mind thanks to Toyota's spotless reliability record, and will likely have a solid resale value - but it also comes with the drawback that it's an utterly forgettable car. From the anodyne driving experience to the bland looks, it's far from inspiring. Sure, the hybrid electric powertrain offers 195 horsepower, up from the 169 hp you get in the gas-only vehicle, but we wouldn't describe this car as being fun to pilot, despite the power boost. While the normal gas model would usually be up against rivals such as the Jeep Compass and Hyundai Kona, competitors for the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid that are similarly economy-minded also include cars such as the Kia Niro hybrid. These cars all have a lot more pizzazz, so let's try to establish whether its lack of flair can be conquered by its positive character traits.

The price of the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid starts at $27,970 for the base model, excluding destination and handling charges. SE trims have an MSRP of $29,290 and the top of the range XSE will set you back $31,065. Pricing will increase if you opt for the premium JBL audio system which adds $800 to the upper trims, while the Convenience Package - available only to the XSE - adds $1,250.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid rides on Toyota's TNGA-C platform, which it shares with the Corolla sedan and hatchback. The Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid delivers an absorbent ride and is one of the most comfortable vehicles in its class. Steering is responsive, and a tight turning circle makes this crossover the perfect partner for inner-city driving. Simply put, this car is easy to drive and comfortable, but driving enthusiasts, beware; it does so while being absolutely dull to drive. The sometimes vocal engine doesn't help its case, but as we found in our road test review of the Corolla Cross Hybrid, the predictability means drivers can just relax and get on with their day. The 196 horsepower on tap provides decent performance, and while the 0-60 sprint of around eight seconds sounds unimpressive, it's a lot faster than the normal Corolla Cross, and the hybrid assistance lends it a pleasing snappiness in town. Standard AWD means resolute traction is assured.

There's a reason why anything with a Corolla badge sells like hotcakes; it simply works. The Corolla nameplate has become synonymous with dependability and value for money, and that's precisely what the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid offers. It isn't expensive; it comes with hybrid efficiency, AWD, and a comfortable ride, and it even sports a solid list of standard driver-assistance systems. It comes with a user-friendly infotainment system that has now also been rolled out to the gas-only trims. If your main goal is getting the family from A to B, this is the car for you. It does what's asked of it without fuss or bother and while the hybrid system's performance is unexceptional, it's a huge improvement on that of the normal Corolla Cross, while delivering excellent fuel economy - 37 mpg combined. While this is not enough to give it a shot at true stardom, it might just be enough to warrant its consideration in the relatively sparsely populated hybrid subcompact crossover class.

Considering the reasonable price for the new Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, opting for the top-end XSE trim is our recommendation. Even adding the $1,250 Convenience Package and choosing a special paint color with a two-tone roof sees you spending under $35k. The upper trim gives you the most in terms of comfort and features at a price that underscores the brand's reputation for value-for-money products.