Automotive
After successfully testing the vehicle in Southeast Asia, Toyota decided to introduce the Corolla Cross to European markets for the 2022 model year.
Following the difficult period of the pandemic, Toyota gradually recovered its sales through effective marketing strategies and reliable vehicles. The company also expanded its lineup with new and improved models. The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross played a significant role in boosting sales. Although already familiar in other regions, it was a novelty for European customers. The vehicle was officially launched in late 2022, utilizing the TNGA (GA-C) platform originally developed for the compact Corolla.
The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross showcased Toyota’s innovative design approach, blending flowing curves with sharp lines and angles. The front end featured a prominent trapezoidal grille with a 3D mesh pattern and a central chrome badge. Depending on the trim level, a chrome surround was available. The upper headlight assembly included integrated LED daytime running lights with turn signal functionality, while LED headlights were offered as an option. The lower bumper incorporated a central black element extending upwards and optional circular fog lights.
Despite its SUV-inspired appearance, the Corolla Cross shared no body panels with other Corolla models. Distinctive features included black cladding around the wheel arches and side sills, giving it an off-road look. However, the European version remained primarily a road-focused crossover. The vehicle’s greenhouse appeared taller than that of the Corolla Touring Sports, while the sloping tailgate contributed to its dynamic profile.
The interior largely borrowed components from the Corolla range. Elevated front bucket seats provided an SUV-like driving position. A high-mounted dashboard housed either a 7- or 8-inch floating infotainment touchscreen, depending on the trim. The steering wheel featured control buttons and framed a rectangular instrument cluster, which included a 12.3-inch digital display in the 2022 Corolla. The rear bench seat, split 60/40, comfortably accommodated three passengers with sufficient leg and headroom.
Mechanically, the Corolla Cross was essentially a raised Corolla. The standard powertrain consisted of a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine paired with an e-CVT transmission driving the front wheels. A 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine with front-wheel drive was also available. Later, a four-wheel-drive variant was introduced, though the vehicle remained primarily suited for paved and unpaved roads rather than off-road use.
