Toyota Corolla Cross Arrives In Europe With Hybrid Power And Better Tech Than The US-Spec Model

The Toyota Corolla Cross continues to spread across the globe and it’s latest destination is Europe.

This usually wouldn’t be too exciting, but Americans should be envious as the Euro-spec model is significantly more advanced than the one offered in the United States.

While the two models look virtually identical, aside from different headlights, there are a number of changes in the cockpit as the crossover adopts a “European-specific dashboard layout.” It features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, which is classier than the analog gauges or 7-inch display you’ll find in the US-spec model.

Driven: 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross Builds On Sedan’s Legacy Of Affordability And Refinement

Besides the digital instrument cluster, the Euro-spec Corolla Cross has a 10.5-inch Audio Multimedia infotainment system. It’s significantly larger than the 7- and 8-inch displays offered in America, and it also runs Toyota’s all-new operating system which features cloud-based navigation as well as support for over-the-air updates.

Even the powertrain is better as Europeans will find a fifth-generation hybrid system that consists of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, a lithium-ion battery, and an electric motor.  This enables the crossover to have a combined output of 197 hp (146 kW / 199 PS), which is 28 hp (21 kW / 28 PS) more than the US-spec model which lacks hybrid technology.  It allows the Corolla Cross to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 8.1 seconds.

Customers can also opt for an all-wheel drive variant, which features a rear-mounted electric motor that develops 41 hp (30.6 kW / 41 PS). It automatically engages as needed and enables the model to retain its 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 8.1 seconds.

Putting the differences aside, the crossover offers an assortment of driver assistance systems including a Pre-Collision System with Acceleration Suppression and Intersection Cut-In Traffic Assist as well as improved Oncoming Traffic detection and Intersection Turn Assist. The model also has Full Speed Range Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Trace Assist, Road Sign Assist, and a Blind Spot Monitor with Safety Exit Assist. Rounding out the highlights are automatic high-beams, a Panoramic View Monitor, an Emergency Driving Stop System, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Automatic Braking.

European Corolla Cross deliveries are slated to begin in the fall of 2022 and it’s worth mentioning Toyota officials in the United States have already confirmed plans for a hybrid variant.