Can the Toyota Corolla Cross Tow a Trailer?
The brand-new Corolla Cross is now available at Toyota dealerships, and contrary to its name, it’s not a sedan. That’s because the Corolla Cross is a subcompact crossover SUV, competing with the likes of the Hyundai Kona, Subaru Crosstrek, and Ford Bronco Sport. But is the Corolla Cross capable of towing a trailer?
2022 Toyota Corolla Cross towing capacity
Though its namesake, the Corolla compact sedan, isn’t known for its towing prowess, the Corolla Cross is a bit more capable. According to Toyota, the Corolla Cross can tow a few things. Its max towing capacity is 1,500 pounds. That allows the Corolla Cross to tow a personal watercraft or lightweight travel trailer.
For comparison, the Corolla Cross’ towing capacity is about average. Many other crossovers in its class can pull about the same amount. But some models, such as the slightly larger Hyundai Tucson, have a max towing capacity of about 2,000 pounds. Regardless, most folks looking to buy a small crossover don’t need to tow much, so the Corolla Cross is quite adequate here.
2022 Toyota Corolla Cross powertrain specs
All 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross trims have a 2.0-liter inline-four engine. It’s the only option, but it’s decently powerful and fuel-efficient. This engine makes about 169 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque. It also allows the Corolla Cross to get about 31 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, and 32 mpg combined.
However, for the 2023 model year, Toyota plans to offer a Corolla Cross hybrid option to American consumers. Though details are scarce as of this writing, the automaker is already selling a hybrid option in other markets. The Corolla Cross hybrid available elsewhere gets about 40 mpg and produces about the same horsepower and torque as the standard version.
Furthermore, the standard Corolla Cross is front-wheel drive, but Toyota also offers all-wheel drive. It also has a continuously variable transmission. But according to Toyota, the Corolla Cross still has a “physical first gear,” providing a more engaging driving experience.
Other features on this brand-new Toyota crossover
The 2022 Corolla Cross comes in three trim levels. According to Toyota, the base-model L starts at $22,195. The next trim level up, the LE, starts at $24,545. Then there’s the range-topping XLE, starting at $26,325.
They all have the same engine and transmission and many of the same advanced safety features. However, the XLE comes with AWD.
In addition, the higher trims come with more comfort and convenience features than the standard model. For instance, the base Corolla Cross has a 7.0-inch touchscreen display, while the LE and the XLE get an 8.0-inch screen. The higher trims also have wireless phone charging and USB ports in the rear seats.
That said, the top XLE trim is the most luxurious. For example, it comes with heated front seats, dual front climate control, and ambient lighting, which the other trims don’t offer.
