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2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Nightshade Edition: A Dark Horse in the Subcompact SUV Race

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I Florin
2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Nightshade Edition: A Dark Horse in the Subcompact SUV Race

The Toyota Corolla is one of the world's most popular cars. But what if you want a Corolla that's more spacious, more versatile, and more efficient than the sedan or hatchback versions? Enter the 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, a new addition to the subcompact SUV segment that combines the best of both worlds: the practicality and value of the Corolla nameplate with the hybrid technology and all-wheel drive capability of the Toyota brand.

The Corolla Cross Hybrid is based on the same TNGA-C platform as the regular Corolla but offers a higher ground clearance, a larger cargo area, and a more rugged appearance. It also features a fifth-generation hybrid system that consists of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and three electric motors, delivering a combined output of 196 horsepower and an estimated fuel economy of 45 mpg city and 38 mpg highway. All-wheel drive is standard on the hybrid model, thanks to an electric motor that powers the rear axle independently from the front.

But what if you want a Corolla Cross Hybrid that's more stylish, more distinctive, and more exclusive than the regular model? Well, you're in luck because Toyota has just announced a Nightshade Special Edition for 2024, available only on the Corolla Cross Hybrid SE grade. The Nightshade Edition adds a touch of black magic to the already feature-packed entry SUV, with gloss-black 18-inch wheels, black and red fabric-trimmed interior with red accent stitching, black-accented head and tail lamps, blacked-out badges, black outside door handles and mirrors, and an integrated rear lip spoiler. You can choose from three chic paint options: Jet Black, Barcelona Red with Jet Black Roof, or Celestite Gray with Jet Black Roof. The Nightshade Edition also comes with some standard accessories that are ready for life on the go, such as a roof rack for extra storage, wireless charging, frameless HomeLink rearview mirror, and carpet floor mats.

The Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Nightshade Edition joins the S, SE, and XSE grades for model year 2024. With three sports grades to choose from, drivers can find a Corolla Cross Hybrid that fits their budget and style. For model year 2024, the SE and XSE grades also receive an update to their wireless charger. The 2024 Corolla Cross Hybrid, along with the gas model that launched in 2021, is assembled in the U.S. at the new Mazda Toyota Manufacturing plant in Huntsville, Alabama. The Corolla Cross Hybrid Nightshade Edition and the rest of the Corolla Cross Hybrid lineup are expected to arrive at Toyota dealerships this winter.

How Does It Drive?

We had a chance to test drive the 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Nightshade Edition on a variety of roads and conditions, and we came away impressed by its performance and comfort. The hybrid powertrain provides smooth and responsive acceleration, especially at low speeds where the electric motors deliver instant torque. The CVT automatic transmission does a good job of keeping the engine in its optimal range without being too noisy or intrusive. The all-wheel-drive system adds stability and traction on slippery surfaces, as well as some off-road capability when needed.

The Corolla Cross Hybrid handles well for its class, with a well-tuned suspension that absorbs bumps and potholes without compromising agility or body control. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces or change lanes on the highway. The brakes are strong and progressive, although they could use some improvement in terms of pedal feel and modulation. The regenerative braking system helps to recover some energy and extend the battery range.

The Corolla Cross Hybrid offers a pleasant and quiet ride quality thanks to its sound insulation and aerodynamic design. The cabin is spacious and airy, with plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are supportive and comfortable, with adjustable lumbar support for the driver. The Nightshade Edition adds some flair to the interior with its black and red color scheme and red stitching. The materials are mostly soft-touch plastics and fabrics, with some hard plastics on lower surfaces.

The Corolla Cross Hybrid comes with a generous amount of standard features and technology, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, six speakers, SiriusXM satellite radio, Wi-Fi hotspot, three USB ports, dual-zone automatic climate control, push-button start, LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, heated power outside mirrors, rear spoiler, and 60/40 split-folding rear seats. The Nightshade Edition adds some exclusive features such as gloss-black wheels, a black and red interior, a roof rack, wireless charging, a frameless rearview mirror, and floor mats.



The Corolla Cross Hybrid also comes with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver assistance features called Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection and turning assist, lane departure warning with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and road sign recognition. The SE grade adds blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the XSE grade adds front and rear parking sensors and a 360-degree camera system.

How Does It Compare?

The 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid faces some tough competition in the subcompact SUV segment, especially from other hybrid models such as the Honda HR-V Hybrid, the Hyundai Kona Hybrid, the Kia Niro Hybrid, and the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid.

As you can see, the Corolla Cross Hybrid offers a good balance of price, power, fuel economy, and cargo space among its rivals. It's not the cheapest, the most powerful, the most efficient, or the most spacious, but it's close enough in each category to make it a compelling choice. It also has the advantage of standard all-wheel drive and a proven hybrid system that has been refined over several generations.

However, there is one competitor that the Corolla Cross Hybrid can't beat: the Toyota Prius. The Prius is not technically a subcompact SUV, but it offers similar dimensions and features as the Corolla Cross Hybrid for a lower price. The Prius starts at $25,520, has a combined output of 121 horsepower, delivers an estimated fuel economy of 54/50 mpg (or 58/53 mpg for the L Eco grade), and has a cargo space of 27.4 cubic feet. The Prius also offers an all-wheel drive option for an extra $1,400, as well as a plug-in hybrid variant called the Prius Prime that can travel up to 25 miles on electric power alone.

So why would you choose the Corolla Cross Hybrid over the Prius? Well, there are a few reasons. One is styling: The Corolla Cross Hybrid looks more like a conventional SUV than the quirky Prius, which may appeal to some buyers who prefer a more mainstream appearance. Another is performance: The Corolla Cross Hybrid has more power and quicker acceleration than the Prius, which may make it more fun to drive for some drivers who value speed over efficiency. A third is availability: The Corolla Cross Hybrid is built in the U.S., while the Prius is imported from Japan, which may affect their supply and demand in the market.

Ultimately, the choice between the Corolla Cross Hybrid and the Prius comes down to personal preference and priorities. Both are excellent vehicles that offer practicality, reliability, and value for money. But if you're looking for a subcompact SUV that's more stylish, more powerful, and more exclusive than the regular model, you might want to check out the 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Nightshade Edition. It's a dark horse in the race that might surprise you with its charm.

Conclusion

The 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Nightshade Edition is a new special edition model that adds some black magic to the already feature-packed entry SUV. It features gloss-black 18-inch wheels, black and red fabric-trimmed interior with red accent stitching, black-accented head and tail lamps, blacked-out badges, black outside door handles and mirrors, and an integrated rear lip spoiler. You can choose from three chic paint options: Jet Black, Barcelona Red with Jet Black Roof, or Celestite Gray with Jet Black Roof.


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