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To upgrade or not to upgrade is a common question among SUV shoppers. The Toyota Corolla Cross seems more enticing with its hybrid engine, but upgrading is a little expensive. Let’s see if the 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid is worth the extra cash. 

Is the 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid worth the upgrade price?

The regular Toyota Corolla Cross model starts at $23,860 and the $1,350 destination fee brings the price up to $25,210. The 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid starts at $29,570 with the destination fee included. 

So, upgrading to the hybrid powertrain among the base models costs about $4,360. Both options are very affordable compared to rivals. However, getting so close to $30,000 seems extreme for a compact, entry-level vehicle. 

The regular Corolla Cross has a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 169 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 9.6 seconds. While that seems slow, it’s average for the class. 

Also, it gets an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and up to 33 mpg in the city, which is pretty good. Adding AWD drops these figures by one to two mpg. 

The 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid parked near the city
2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid | Toyota

With the Corolla Cross Hybrid, you get a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that’s paired with three electric motors to generate 196 hp 139 lb-ft of torque. 

All-wheel drive is standard for the hybrid models. It costs $1,300 to add AWD to the regular Corolla Cross models. 

The Corolla Cross Hybrid can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 7.4 seconds, which is an incredible improvement. It gets an EPA-estimated 45 mpg in the city and up to 38 mpg on the highway. 

Both entry-level models start with 17-inch wheels, an 8.0-inch infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. 

But the Corolla Cross Hybrid also has standard keyless entry, push-button start, LED headlights, automatic climate control, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, heated exterior mirrors, and a 120-volt outlet in the cargo hold. 

So, upgrading to the Corolla Cross Hybrid seems more than worth it. It’s faster, more efficient, has AWD, and more standard features.