If you’ve ever wished the Toyota Corolla were roomier, the Corolla Cross might be your answer. The standard trim comes with a decent powertrain and plenty of useful features, and even the fully loaded version is relatively affordable. This brand-new subcompact crossover is already outshining several competitors, including the Honda HR-V and Subaru Crosstrek.

Alas, the Toyota Corolla Cross still has plenty of other worthy rivals. One is the Chevy Trailblazer, which has seen brisk sales since its 2020 release. Although the Trailblazer has a few problems, it outperforms the Corolla Cross in a few areas.

What does the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross offer?

The Toyota Corolla Cross comes standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 169 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is also standard, but all-wheel drive is optional. Both come with a continuously variable transmission. The FWD model offers better gas mileage, at 32 mpg combined city/highway, according to Toyota. 

Though some drivers might delight at that efficiency, Car and Driver notes the Corolla Cross’s performance is sorely lacking. The engine is loud when accelerating, and don’t expect to reach 60 mph in less than nine seconds. On the plus side, handling is secure, and the ride is comfortable for all five occupants.

Passengers will also appreciate that the Toyota Corolla Cross has more backseat space than its sedan inspiration. In front, the cabin is also pleasantly roomy and looks precisely like the Corolla’s accommodations. And cargo space behind the back row measures over 25 cubic feet.

Standard features include a 7.0-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration, satellite radio trial, and six stereo speakers. Higher trims get a slightly larger infotainment screen, synthetic leather seats, and a moonroof. Each trim comes with an impressive safety suite, including basic cruise control and a pre-collision system.

Toyota lists the Corolla Cross’s base L trim as $22,195. The mid-range LE starts at $24,545, and the top-tier XLE retails for $26,325.

The 2022 Chevy Trailblazer at a glance

The Chevy Trailblazer offers two engine options, both turbocharged three-cylinders. They’re less potent than the Corolla Cross’s engine.

The Trailblazer’s base engine makes 137 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with a CVT and FWD (there’s no available AWD).

The available turbo provides slightly more power at 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque. Buyers can opt for AWD with this engine, and it also gets a smoother nine-speed automatic transmission. C/D says this model accelerates even slower than the Corolla Cross, and the ride isn’t as compliant.

Still, C/D likes that the Trailblazer seems faster than its Toyota rival at lower speeds. The Chevy’s fuel economy is also excellent, with up to 30 mpg combined city/highway.

The Trailblazer also boasts plenty of room for five riders and as much cargo space as the Corolla Cross. In addition, the Chevy has plenty of the same standard features, plus fun extras like roof racks. Pricing for the Trailblazer starts at $21,600 and maxes out around $27,200, according to Chevrolet.

What gives the Trailblazer an advantage over the Corolla Cross?

Although the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross is a well-rounded entry in the segment, the Chevy Trailblazer stands out for its distinctive styling. It also offers slightly more passenger room, and the engine operates with fewer complaints. On the other hand, the Corolla Cross is noisy and unrefined, which could spark reliability worries down the road.