The Most Affordable AWD Hybrid SUV In 2024

The rise in demand for hybrid crossovers in the U.S. has grown exponentially, which has prompted manufacturers to invest in developing more affordable options. For many, all-wheel drive systems are a must when considering a crossover as well. Front-wheel drive models are typically lighter on fuel and energy, but the dynamic benefits you get from all four driving wheels is far superior, especially if you stay in the states with extreme weather conditions.

There are a couple of affordable all-wheel drive hybrid crossovers and SUVs available in the new car market, but one particular model benefits from being the most affordable. Coincidentally, it’s also one of the most efficient options you can consider. The 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid introduces the brand’s updated gasoline-electric drivetrain, but it remains the cheapest option in the highly competitive segment. The Niro Hybrid is still the cheapest hybrid model, but it doesn’t feature an all-wheel drive system.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from Toyota’s websites and other authoritative sources, including Car and Driver, the EPA, the NHTSA, the IIHS, and J.D. Power.

The Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Starts At $28,220

The Corolla Cross Hybrid range starts at $28,220 for the entry-level S trim. The SE follows this with a $29,540 price tag, after which you get the $30,465 Nightshade and flagship $31,405 XSE derivatives. These prices exclude Toyota’s $1,350 delivery, processing, and handling fee. The Corolla Cross sits on the same TNGA-C platform used by the Sedan and Hatchback variations. It’s also a locally built model, with production taking place at the brand’s Huntsville, Alabama plant.

After the global success of the C-HR, which is now defunct in the U.S., Toyota realized the value in affordable compact crossovers and devised this more practical and attractive model. The Corolla Cross possesses the same principles as its lower-riding counterparts, which is why it’s performing so well in the market. It’s not a volume seller when you compare it to the RAV4 Hybrid’s figures, but 7,464 unit sales in the last three months is still a highly impressive feat.

The Toyota Corolla Cross Produces 196 Horsepower

All four Corolla Cross trims feature Toyota’s recently introduced naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder Atkinson engine and triple electric motor configuration. This powertrain also features on the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and fifth-generation Prius. A direct-drive eCVT transfers a combined 196 horsepower and 152 pound-feet to all four wheels, resulting in a claimed 0-60 MPH time of 7.3 seconds. Independent tests confirm this claim is accurate in real-world conditions. The engine and two electric motors power the front wheels, while a third motor positioned at the rear completes the all-wheel-drive configuration.

2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Performance And Specs

(Data sourced from Toyota)

In isolation, the ICE generates 169 horsepower and 152 pound-feet. The front electric motors produce 110 horsepower, while the rear produces 40 horsepower and 62 pound-feet. Toyota doesn’t disclose its combined torque figure, so we don’t really know how much twisting force it generates with the full drivetrain operating at maximum capacity. Compared to ICE crossovers, it’s not the most capable hauler, but you can tow up to 1,500 pounds if you fit the optional $399 Activity Mount.

The Corolla Cross Hybrid Consumes 42 MPG

The Corolla Cross Hybrid also enjoys the benefit of being one of the most efficient hybrid crossovers currently available in the new car market, with its 45/38/42 MPG city/highway/combined EPA estimates. The 0.9 kWh battery pack means that the drivetrain possesses limited EV driving functionalities. It’s a typical hybrid system that acts as a supplementary drivetrain to reduce the loss of power and lower the ICE’s load, resulting in good fuel economy returns.

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy Figures

(Data sourced from Toyota)

Toyota’s decision to invest in the Atkinson cycle combustion engine is a big payoff for its hybrid endeavors. This engine benefits from a longer expansion stroke compared to conventional Otto engines. The result is a more complete fuel and air combustion cycle, which results in a higher thermal efficiency and reduced fuel consumption. By lowering this heat rejection, the engine’s efficiency drastically improves, making it the ideal choice for gasoline-electric hybrid cars.

The Toyota Corolla Cross Merges Efficiency With Style

The benefit of Akio Toyoda’s invested interests has resulted in a number of benefits for the traditionally conservative Japanese brand. The Corolla Cross Hybrid features a unique design language that pays homage to previous icons and some of its more modern crossovers. The design portrays the brand’s “Urban Toughness” language, which promotes its usability in dense urban and outdoor environments.

Noteworthy design cues include its striking headlights with integrated daytime running lights, a distinctive A-shaped lower grille, and sleek but aggressive front and rear bumpers. A collection of black trimmings and wheel arch cladding accentuate the profile, while a stylish silver shield creates a robust appearance at the rear. A hatch-mounted roof spoiler adds an element of sportiness to the overall appearance.

2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Exterior Dimensions

(Data sourced from Toyota)

You can have the Corolla Cross Hybrid in a choice of six metallic colors, ranging from Barcelona Red, Blue Crush, Celestite Gray, Sonic Silver, and Jet Black. You have to pay $425 for the Wind Chill Pearl finish. Only the red, blue, and silver shades are available with the optional black dual-tone roof for $500.

Acid Blast Yellow is only available with the Jet Black roof for the same price. Based modes feature silver 17-inch alloy wheels. The SE shows off a more dynamic dual-tone 17-inch alloy wheel design. The Nightshade model features a more dynamic 18-inch set finished in black, while the top-of-the-range XSE derivative benefits from a set of 18-inch machine-finished dual-tone design.

Toyota Designs The Corolla Cross Interior For Families

One of the TNGA-C platform’s biggest benefits is its generous interior and cargo space, which is designed to accommodate the average nuclear family. Standard features across all derivatives include single-zone climate control, a conventional 4.2-inch TFT display with two analog gauges, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, manually adjustable front seats, and cloth upholstery.

Those requiring a more premium experience can opt for the XSE, which includes a digital instrument cluster, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and heated front seats with power adjustments for the driver. You also get SofTex upholstery, privacy-tinted windows, blind spot monitoring, and paddle shifters to control the eCVT via 10 synthetic steps. The nine-speaker JBL Premium audio system is an optional extra.

2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Interior Dimensions

(Data sourced from Toyota)

The aforementioned cloth upholstery in the S trim’s interior boasts a black and gray hue. The SE features black, gray, and blue fabric seats. The XSE gets black or black and blue Softex seats. The Nightshade model features an exclusive SofTex upholstery design.

The trunk accommodates an impressive 21.5 cubic-feet of cargo space, which expands to 61.8 cubic-feet by folding the rear seats down. Those wanting more convenience can specify the optional power liftgate for the higher trims. This comes with adjustable height settings if you park somewhere with a lower ceiling.

Toyota Covers The Corolla Cross Hybrid Battery For 10 years

Like all hybrid Toyota models, the 2024 Corolla Cross Hybrid benefits from the brand’s comprehensive standard warranty plan. This consists of a 36-month or 36,000-mile basic bumper-to-bumper warranty, together with a 60-month or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty plan. If you spot any noteworthy corrosion defects, Toyota will resolve these issues within a 60-month period. The battery and electric drive system benefit from the brand’s class-leading 120-month or 150,000-mile protection plan.

Corolla Cross Hybrid Warranty Plan

(Warranty plan details sourced from Toyota)

You also get the benefit of the brand’s helpful ToyotaCare roadside assistance service for two years with unlimited miles and two complementary scheduled maintenance over 24 months or 25,000 miles. There are currently no recalls listed for the 2024 Corolla Cross Hybrid, but there are three airbag-related recalls for the 2023 model. This does not affect any new models produced for the 2024 model year. J.D. Power grants the entire Corolla Cross range an Average 77/100 score for Quality and Reliability.