Cheapest New Toyota SUV Goes Hybrid in 2023: High Gas Mileage!
Toyota rose to prominence with iconic sedans such as the Corolla and Camry — but much of its success is now due to its popular lineup of SUVs. While SUVs are often expensive, the Japanese automaker has some affordable options. This is exemplified by the subcompact 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross, the cheapest new Toyota SUV. Also, in 2023, the Corolla Cross adds a new hybrid model, which gets high gas mileage.
2023 Toyota Corolla Cross is the cheapest new Toyota SUV
With a starting price of $23,060 MSRP, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross is the cheapest new Toyota SUV. The next most affordable new SUV model is the subcompact 2022 C-HR ($24,280 MSRP). However, the C-HR will soon be discontinued in the American market, for a 2023 version won’t be produced.
Here are the new Toyota SUVs — in order of cheapest to most expensive:
- 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross: $23,060 MSRP
- 2022 Toyota C-HR: $24,280 MSRP
- 2023 Toyota RAV4: $27,975 MSRP
- 2023 Toyota Venza: $34,120 MSRP
- 2023 Toyota Highlander: $36,420 MSRP
- 2023 Toyota 4Runner: $39,555 MSRP
- 2023 Toyota bZ4X: $42,000 MSRP
- 2023 Toyota Sequoia: $58,365 MSRP
Regarding the other models, the compact RAV4 is the best-selling Toyota SUV, as well as the top-selling SUV in the world. The Highlander is the world’s best-selling midsize SUV, while the midsize 4Runner boasts excellent off-road capabilities. Another midsize model is the Venza.
Also, the most expensive one is the full-size Sequoia, which received a pleasing redesign for the 2023 model year. And then there’s the first-ever bZ4X. It’s the only all-electric Toyota model currently available.
However, the most affordable one of all is the Corolla Cross. It’s a relatively new model, debuting for the 2022 model year. By fusing the styling of the Corolla sedan with the capabilities and utility of an SUV, it’s managed to find a niche spot in the lineup.
Toyota Corolla Cross adds a new hybrid model with high fuel economy
In its second year of production, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross SUV has a key addition: a new hybrid model. Considering the high level of expertise and success that Toyota has with hybrid vehicles, a hybrid version makes perfect sense.
The hybrid powertrain combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with three electric motors — delivering a fuel-sipping estimated gas mileage of 37 combined. In comparison, the standard model gets up to 32 combined mpg, which is still respectable fuel economy.
One of the long-held perceptions of hybrids is they have weak power outputs and are not fun to drive. However, the Corolla Cross Hybrid defies this perception. Not only does it have higher gas mileage than the standard model, but it’s also more powerful. With the added electric motors, it delivers an output of 194 horsepower, compared to 169 horsepower for the fully gas-powered version.
Furthermore, the power boost results in quicker acceleration. The Corolla Cross Hybrid accelerates from 0-60 mph in 8.0 seconds, while it takes the standard model 9.2 seconds to complete the sprint.
Other changes for the 2023 Corolla Cross
Beyond the new hybrid model, the 2023 Corolla Cross has some other changes. This includes a new infotainment system, which offers an 8.0-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, over-the-air updates, and cloud-based navigation. Also, the subcompact SUV provides new USB-C charge ports. Additionally, it has an expanded trim lineup with the new S, SE, and XSE trims.
The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross is an affordable choice for SUV shoppers. It’s the cheapest new Toyota SUV — and in 2023, it adds a new hybrid model with high gas mileage.
