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November 29, 2021
Test Drive: The Toyota Corolla Cross—A Clear Threat to Its Rivals | TOYOTA
Best Buy: The S Grade E-Four Model
Climbing into the driver's seat, I was greeted by a vibrant Optitron meter display. The tachometer is on the left, fuel and water temperature on the right, and the speedometer and 4WD power flow are shown in the center. The shift lever on the console is a familiar grip type, offering a sense of security. Behind it are the EV switch and drive mode switches.
Regarding the drive, while the new Aqua I tested that day featured a high-output "bipolar nickel-metal hydride battery" that extended EV driving time and increased power, the Corolla Cross uses the conventional nickel-metal hydride battery found in Toyota's THS II system. It offers sufficient power, as expected.
The rear suspension, which is a double-wishbone type for the 4WD model compared to the torsion beam on the FF, combined with the smaller 17-inch tires (Bridgestone Alenza 215/55R17) than the top model, and an additional 100kg of weight, all contribute positively to a quiet and stable ride. Although fuel economy (WLTC mode) is slightly lower at 24.2 km/l compared to the FF model, it maintains excellent figures. This S grade E-Four model might just be the best buy among the Corolla Cross lineup.
Toyota's SUV lineup already includes eight models, from the smallest: the Raize, Yaris Cross, C-HR, RAV4, Harrier, Land Cruiser Prado, Land Cruiser, to the Hilux. It seemed like there were no gaps left, but there was still room. The Corolla Cross fills the niche of the family-use C-segment SUV. This segment was previously a bit of a lead for competitors like Honda's Vezel and Nissan's Kicks, but now Toyota is making a strong move to catch up.
The price of the test car, including the vehicle itself at ¥2,959,000, plus ¥278,850 in options such as the accessory power outlet with an emergency power supply system, blind spot monitor, parking support brake, panoramic view monitor, drive recorder, and windshield de-icer and heated steering wheel for cold regions, came to ¥3,237,850. It's undoubtedly a significant threat to its rivals.
