The latest Toyotas have developed a reputation for being pricier than the competition. Yes, they are, unapologetically, but rightfully so. The country's number one car brand is also the best-selling automaker (for four years in a row). It has pioneered multiple automotive technologies that other marques are tripping over themselves to follow.
But not all Toyotas are beyond your budget. If you look closely, there are models to be had at a fair price without losing out on innovative features your neighbor has been bragging about for months. That segues us perfectly to the P1.498-million Corolla Cross 1.8 G HEV.
News about the Toyota-refreshed, Thai-made Corolla Cross came out in January and was here by April. If you're skeptical about the price, here is an eye-opener. This 2024 model is actually cheaper than the P1.650-million Corolla Cross hybrid that came out in 2020.
For full disclosure: this unit is an entry-level, while the 2020 version was the top of the line. Still, the four-year difference gives the current a huge advantage in every category.
The exterior is way more stylish. It is less squarish and more rounded on the edges, giving it that softer, smoother look. The nose is updated with an integrated honeycomb grille, a light bar, two-beam LED projector headlamps and LED daytime running lamps. The result is a cleaner and more sophisticated finish compared to its predecessor. At the back is a rear spoiler, a fin-type antenna, LED taillights, a manual tailgate, and a diffuser-type panel at the bottom.
It isn't the chicest crossover in the market, especially with its 17-inch alloy wheels, but the refresh gives it enough to impress buyers and not finish last in a beauty pageant. The sleeker shape and subtle curves highlighted by body lines will get you to look, but it is what's inside that counts.
Let's start with the cabin. As a base model, it has fabric upholstery. I know leather is fancier and easier to clean, but it also takes longer to cool down. It does have a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel and a piece on the lower part of the dashboard (with white stitching). Either way, it shouldn't be a deal breaker because it has more to offer.
Infotainment comes from a 10-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and Bluetooth audio streaming. There is no need to bring cables for your smartphone, there’s better cabin cooling capability, and drivers can relax more in stop-and-go traffic.
If you do, you’ll notice the Type-A USB port is on the screen. It doesn't look neat, but there’s a Type-C port inside the small center console. Also, it would be better to put all audio controls on one side of the steering wheel instead of the volume on the left and the back and next buttons on the right.
Other features are a wireless charging pad, an automatic dual-zone climate control system, and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold. Behind is a spacious second row, a drop-down armrest, and a 60:40 split-folding system. That is a neat set of new features I didn't expect from an entry-level model.
The best part about this 2024 Corolla Cross update is the revised powertrain. Even the G trim level gets a hybrid system using a 1.8-liter engine, a 6.5-Ah nickel-metal hydride battery, and a 1NM AC synchronous electric motor. It sends 122-PS and 142-Nm of torque to the front wheels via an electric continuously variable transmission.
It has three drive modes: Eco, Power, and EV. I stayed in Eco for seven days and achieved an astounding 20.4 km/l. I rarely pushed it upon takeoff, but I also rarely missed an overtaking opportunity. Overall, I still consider it spirited driving minus fuel-saving measures to show how fuel-efficient this crossover is.
Engine noise was audible in the cabin when I applied some pressure to the throttle, and the rear torsion beams were stiffer than I expected, so a bit of tweaking in those departments should improve cabin comfort in the future.
The weight of the batteries keeps it steady around turns, better than its non-hybrid counterparts. The steering is lighter (than that of the model I drove last), so it feels easier to maneuver.
Unfortunately, it is the only Corolla Cross that has not received Toyota Safety Sense. But if you drive old-school, you should be fine without it. I wish Toyota had included cruise control, at least. That will be helpful in keeping drivers within the speed limit at Skyway Stage 3.
There is room for improvement, but if you're planning to get your first hybrid, the 2024 Corolla Cross 1.8 G HEV is a (very) wise choice. After all of the above, it still boils down to the badge. It's a Toyota, which means it's reliable and durable, backed by a dealership network with reputable aftersales service, and, more importantly, affordable.