Most 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Shoppers Have Their Eye on 1 Trim
Piggybacking off the Toyota Corolla’s popularity, the Corolla Cross is a small SUV with big appeal. It’s also available as a hybrid model, but even the regular Corolla Cross offers decent fuel economy. All three 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross trims are affordably priced, but which one do most consumers pick?
What are the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross trims?
The five-seat Corolla Cross has plenty to like. Every trim packs a 169-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard with the first two trim levels, but buyers must upgrade to the range-topping model to get all-wheel drive.
The L base model has 17-inch wheels, matte-black heated power outside mirrors, and LED headlights. Cloth upholstery covers the seats, which are split-folding in the back row for easier loading. This Toyota SUV’s cargo area is 24 cubic feet with all seats upright, but AWD models have slightly less storage space.
As for technology, the Corolla Cross L has wireless smartphone integration and Amazon Alexa connectivity. Users can access those features and other connected services through an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen.
This small SUV also provides numerous advanced safety features, including lane departure mitigation and intersection collision warning. Other advanced driver-assistance systems are forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
All of those features carry over to the mid-level LE, which adds blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts. It also has automatic high beams and other features. This 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross trim starts at $25,940.
The Corolla Cross XLE is the priciest model, starting at $29,015. It rides on 18-inch alloy wheels with brushed metal finishing. It also has LED daytime running lights, taillights, fog lights, and turn signals. Furthermore, this model swaps the torsion beam rear suspension for a multi-link setup.
Additionally, the XLE is the only Corolla Cross trim that can be optioned with a power liftgate and adaptive headlights with auto-leveling.
The XLE’s interior is optimized with ambient lighting, synthetic leather-trimmed seating, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Front riders get heated seats, and the rear passengers get a folding armrest. The safety suite expands to include rear-collision warning and front and rear parking sensors.
The most popular 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross trim is the LE
According to Edmunds, most consumers choose the Corolla Cross LE, starting at $25,940. In addition to the extra safety features, this mid-level Corolla Cross trim has single-zone automatic climate control and tinted rear windows. It and the XLE also have standard roof rails.
Other interior upgrades include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a wireless charging pad, and push-button start. In addition, the Corolla Cross LE has four USB ports — 50% more than the L trim. Buyers can also option the LE with a JBL premium sound system and a moonroof.
Which trim is the best buy?
From a performance standpoint, the XLE is superior for its AWD capability. However, the two 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross trims with FWD get slightly better gas mileage ratings than the AWD XLE: 32 mpg versus 30 mpg combined.
Also, the XLE lacks features found in some fully loaded rivals, such as navigation and genuine leather upholstery. That gives shoppers little reason to buy the top trim over the nicely equipped LE. Even with every option added, Toyota prices the LE at under $30,000.
