Is a Base Model 2022 Toyota RAV4 Better Than a 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross XLE?
The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross is the Japanese automaker’s latest crossover. The Cross brings the Corolla into the world of compact SUVs by retaining many of the same elements and making the vehicle more spacious. Is a base model 2022 Toyota RAV4 better than the final Corolla Cross trim, the Corolla Cross XLE?
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 provides plenty of value for its price
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 is the latest iteration of America’s most popular compact SUV. The RAV4 is the best-selling crossover model in the United States because it balances affordability, comfort, and power perfectly.
The RAV4 starts at $26,525. It uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to produce 203 horsepower. The compact SUV achieves 28 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway.
The base model RAV4 LE comes with a 4.2-inch digital Multi-Information Display. It includes a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility.
The Toyota RAV4 LE also comes with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of safety features that includes Lane Departure Alert, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, and many other helpful features. It has a smooth ride quality and attractive exterior styling.
Can the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross XLE compete with the Toyota RAV4?
The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross XLE is the final Corolla Cross trim. It starts at $26,325. The crossover gets 31 miles per gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway.
The Corolla Cross XLE uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to produce 169 horsepower. It comes with wireless smartphone charging, roof rails, and a heated 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. The compact SUV model also includes SofTex-trimmed seating.
The Corolla Cross XLE features ambient lighting as well. It comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Which Toyota crossover should you buy, the RAV4 or Corolla Cross?
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 LE and the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross XLE are nearly identical in price. Their fuel economy is nearly identical as well. The RAV4 is the more powerful compact SUV.
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 received an 8.5/10 overall rating from Car and Driver. Its younger cousin, the Corolla Cross, received a 7.5/10 overall rating. The 2022 Toyota RAV4 LE is a better compact SUV than the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross because it has better acceleration, a better cabin, and a better exterior design than the Corolla Cross.
The Toyota Corolla Cross may appeal to some new buyers, but it’s ultimately designed for fans of the Corolla who want a more spacious cabin and cargo area. The XLE model comes with plenty of creature comforts, but it doesn’t make the crossover any more exciting for drivers. Pass on the 2022 Toyota Corolla XLE and grab a RAV4 instead if you’re looking for the best compact SUV model that Toyota has to offer.
