5 Reasons the Toyota Corolla Cross 2025 is the Best SUV Under $30K

Toyota Corolla Cross 2025

The Toyota Corolla arrived in our country back in 1968 and has since established a reputation for dependability and fuel efficiency that persists to this day. The Corolla Cross combines the familiar Corolla features in a compact crossover body. Following in the footsteps of the Corolla, the Cross excels in terms of value but falls short in terms of performance, excitement, and driving pleasure. Its 169-horsepower four-cylinder engine and continuously variable transmission provide only a lackluster acceleration. The interior is simple, functional, and business-like. The Cross's main advantages over the current Corolla sedan and hatchback are its additional cargo space and the option for all-wheel drive. In essence, it is a practical vehicle in the form of an SUV. The Corolla Cross Hybrid, which we will review separately, is notably more powerful, much faster, and offers significantly better fuel efficiency, making it a compelling alternative to the standard Cross.
For those seeking a subcompact crossover with a more distinctive character a more engaging driving experience, or both, we recommend considering rivals such as the Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, Chevrolet Trailblazer, or Mazda CX-30.

What's New for 2025?

Except for the addition of a new Polymetal Grey paint option, the Corolla Cross remains unchanged for 2025.

Design Exterior

Distinctive Styling

The Corolla Cross's contemporary design is a sight to behold. The LED headlights, with the option of LED daytime running lights (DRL), seamlessly blend into the flared fenders, while the sleek silhouette adds to its clean aesthetic.

18-In. Alloy Wheels

The Corolla Cross's athletic appearance is enhanced by the black, machined alloy wheels, which provide a harmonious blend of sportiness and sophistication.

A Perfect Fit

Impressive in design and versatile in size, the Corolla Cross offers seating for up to five passengers and a spacious cargo area. Your possibilities are endless with this vehicle.

Roof Rails

For added convenience, make use of Corolla Cross's available roof rails. With the ability to carry more equipment, you can continue doing the activities that inspire you.

Design Interior

Spacious Interior

The Corolla Cross's 8.1 inches of ground clearance and generous headroom naturally provide an enhanced view over traffic for a more confident driving experience.

Cargo Capacity

From long weekends to cross-town trips, Corolla Cross' impressive cargo space of up to 24 cubic feet, with the second-row seats up, allows you to make the most of your time.

Rear-Seat Vents

Ensure the comfort of your rear passengers. The standard rear-seat vents in the Corolla Cross create a cozy atmosphere for everyone.

Heated Front Seats

Add more comfort to every ride. When the weather turns chilly, the Corolla Cross's available heated front seats will warm up at the touch of a button.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The cost of the 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross begins at $25,385 and can reach up to $29,610, depending on the model and features selected.
While we typically advise against opting for the top-of-the-line trim, the XLE model stands out as the one that provides the features sought after by many SUV buyers. These include a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, and attractive 18-inch aluminum wheels.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Corolla Cross offers a choice between a traditional gasoline engine and a hybrid powertrain, but this review focuses on the former. The standard version is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 169 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. This power is transmitted through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available as an option. For most drivers, this power is more than sufficient. When pushed, the engine can become coarse and noisy, but it never accelerates the Cross quickly. However, the ride quality of the Corolla Cross is pleasant, so those seeking a comfortable experience will be satisfied.

0–60-MPH Times

In our trials, the Corolla Cross, equipped with all-wheel drive, reached 60 miles per hour in a time of 9.2 seconds, which is a bit of a wait. To put things in perspective, the Honda HR-V, the Corolla’s main competitor, is two-tenths of a second slower to reach 60 miles per hour. Additionally, the 2024 Corolla Cross Hybrid achieved this speed in 7.3 seconds, and you can find the review here.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The Corolla Cross is estimated to achieve an EPA fuel economy of 31 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. However, the all-wheel drive version of the Corolla Cross slightly reduces these figures to 29 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
In our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test, the all-wheel drive Corolla Cross returned 30 mpg, falling short of the EPA estimate by 1 mpg. For more details about the Corolla Cross's fuel economy, please visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

If you appreciate the Corolla sedan or hatchback, you will find the interior of the Corolla Cross appealing. The cabin of the Cross is a near-perfect replica of the four-door Corolla, with similar materials, layout, technology, and convenience features. Although the Corolla Cross offers slightly more rear-seat space than the Corolla hatchback, it is comparable to the sedan. However, it provides over 12 cubic feet more cargo space. The lower trim levels are basic, but the XLE model includes attractive faux-leather upholstery, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped shift knob, and a flip-down center armrest for rear-seat passengers.

Infotainment and Connectivity

A 20-centimeter touchscreen infotainment system, powered by the most recent Toyota software, and a six-speaker audio system are included as standard features. The dashboard features a 4.2-inch TFT Multi-Information Display, but the top-of-the-line model boasts a larger 7-inch display. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio are all standard, but wireless phone charging and USB charging ports in the rear seats are optional. For those who appreciate music, there is the option to upgrade to a JBL Premium audio system with a subwoofer in the top two trim levels.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The Toyota Corolla Cross offers a range of standard safety features and driver assistance systems across all models, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, road sign assistance, and automatic high beams. For more information on the Corolla Cross' crash test results, please visit the websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Key safety features include:
Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Standard lane-departure warning with accident avoidance system
Standard adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The Toyota Corolla Cross comes with a fairly limited standard warranty, but the company includes two years of complimentary scheduled maintenance to make the offer more attractive. Competitors like the Kia Seltos or the Hyundai Kona may provide more value for drivers with high mileage by offering policies that cover up to 100,000 miles.
The limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
The powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
Complimentary maintenance is covered for two years or 25,000 miles