Tucked away in Toyota’s vast array of crossovers and SUVs - and absent of any real marketing - is the C-HR. One could argue it’s the most provocatively styled of the lot but its diminutive size and lack of all-wheel drive have hampered sales so the arrival of this new Corolla variant likely signals the CH-R’s death knell. For the 2022 model year, the Corolla Cross enters the fray capitalizing on one of the brand’s most recognizable nameplates. Better yet, it instantly becomes Toyota’s least expensive sport-utility.

Already offered as a sedan, hatchback, hybrid and high-performance GR model, a Corolla crossover SUV just seemed inevitable. Priced from $23,410 including destination it’s not a looker like the CH-R but it is far more practical. This well-appointed XLE AWD grade is brimming with usefulness and thoughtful features in an elevated body style clearing an impressive 8-plus inches. For those intimidated by the size and fuel economy of a traditional SUV but crave its commanding view and 5-door versatility, the Corolla Cross slots in nicely. Rated at 30 MPG in mixed driving with a nearly 400-mile driving range it’s a value proposition that asks few sacrifices of its owner. With adequate sizing in the front, middle and rear, a roof rack and the ability to tow 1,500 pounds, the Corolla Cross presents as a do-it-all for the shopper on a budget.

Though a more powerful and highly fuel-efficient Corolla Cross Hybrid is planned for 2023, this saunters about with a modestly motivated 2.0-liter engine generating a maximum 169 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. Throwing a wet blanket on the motor is a continuously variable transmission. Needless to say, this isn’t the chariot of choice for speed aficionados but I highly doubt the powertrain shortcomings will bother the typical Corolla Cross owner. With its utilitarian and pragmatic side front and center, its lesser characteristics seem to fade away.

This fully optioned XLE is the highest of 3 available trim levels and comes stocked with notable features such as…

Priced at $3,300, Audio Plus with JBL with options is the most robust of the 3 available packages furnishing this Corolla Cross with everything on the menu. Only the carpeted mats and crossbars are extra. Even though this is a new model it still houses the previous generation Toyota system with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, satellite radio and a backup camera with gridlines; all aspects of which are easy to use bordering on being too basic. Onboard navigation is not available so the smartphone connection must take up the slack. There are myriad driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, road sign assist, auto high beams and various collision avoidance measures. The driver information display can also be configured for an analog or digital layout.

The Corolla Cross makes the most of its efficient packaging with impressive interior dimensions. Don’t be duped by its small footprint; it’s much roomier inside than it appears. Hauling bikes and other gear is accomplished with fold-flat rear seats though not without some wrangling with the front seats first in order to clear space. When folded, they also lie a tad higher than the cargo floor itself so the total space isn’t completely level but there’s lots of capacity nevertheless. The rear seats are also adult sized with a bump out in the ceiling creating additional headroom. The cabin neither looks nor feels cheap either with the exception of the low-grade headliner.

From the driver’s seat there’s an easygoing nature to the Corolla Cross that matches its versatile nature with get-in-and-go simplicity and a high seating position providing a perspective of a true SUV. Unfortunately, the passenger doesn’t experience the same because their seat has no height adjustment. Because Toyota designed the Corolla Cross for the urban environment and the slow-moving nature its traffic the CVT is less of a hindrance and under light loads doesn’t present a detriment to the drive. It’s only times when your right foot asks too much of the Corolla Cross that cacophony and slowness ensue. And with the roof rack crossbars stirring the wind and some tire noise, this isn’t exactly a quiet cabin. But the ride and handling attributes are actually quite agreeable projecting a premium persona belying its entry-level stature.

Front-drive models are engineered with a more basic torsion beam rear suspension while this all-wheel drive model utilizes a fully-independent setup that does an excellent job of maintaining a comfortable ride quality over rough surfaces. Though this is not a vehicle designed for off-road driving, the rear wheels will join the party when the computer senses a need for all-wheel drive, receiving up to 50% of the available power. Otherwise, the rear axle is disengaged to save fuel. Newly introduced Goodyear Assurance Finesse low rolling resistance tires provide all-season traction and long tread life. With all-wheel drive a $1,300 option, MSRP of this Corolla Cross is $32,718; a very palatable price for a stocked compact crossover with just-right sizing and excellent gas mileage.

Built by Mazda at the companies’ new joint manufacturing plant in Alabama, the Corolla Cross exceeds expectations, striking a compelling balance between price point and proficiency.