Toyota Corolla Cross 2025 Review

The compact SUV market has always been a popular choice for Malaysian family users. The 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross series was just launched on December 4th, with the 1.8 V version as the main fuel model, focusing on balanced configuration and practical experience. In this test drive, we focused on its performance in daily commuting and family travel scenarios to see if this car can continue the reliability reputation of the Corolla series while meeting user demands for configuration and space.

The exterior of the 1.8 V maintains the tough style of the Corolla Cross family. The large front grille, combined with chrome accents, connects to the LED headlights on both sides, providing high recognition. The side profile of the vehicle is straight, while its 18-inch wheels paired with 225/50 R18 tires look well-proportioned. The horizontal design of the LED taillights at the rear adds visual width, while the silver skid plate at the bottom of the rear bumper enhances the SUV's rugged attribute. The overall design is not overly aggressive and leans toward a visually lasting appeal, suitable for the aesthetics of most family users.

Inside the car, the interior of the 1.8 V leans toward practicality. The dashboard adopts a symmetrical layout, and the material is mainly hard plastic, but the detailing is well-executed, avoiding a cheap feel. The front seats are wrapped in leather; the driver's seat supports 8-way electric adjustment, while the passenger seat is manually adjustable, which is convenient for daily use. The center console features a 4.2-inch multi-information display and physical buttons, with clear operational logic, allowing even first-time users to get started quickly. The rear space performs well, with the 2640mm wheelbase providing a clear advantage. A passenger of 175cm would still have two fist-widths of legroom, and the headroom does not feel cramped. The rear is equipped with independent air conditioning vents and two USB ports to meet the charging needs of rear passengers. The trunk has a standard capacity suitable for holding three 20-inch suitcases, and the rear seats can be folded down in a 60:40 split, creating a larger storage space, making transporting large items no problem.

In terms of power, the 1.8 V is equipped with a 1.8L naturally aspirated engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 139PS and a peak torque of 172N·m, paired with a 7-speed CVT transmission. During daily commutes, it provides smooth starts, linear throttle responses, and excellent CVT transmission smoothness, with almost no noticeable gear shifts. When accelerating with the pedal deeply pressed, power output remains steady, and overtaking can be done easily with some preemptive acceleration. The steering feels light, with good precision, making U-turns and parking maneuverable. The chassis adopts a front MacPherson independent suspension and a rear torsion beam non-independent suspension, tuned for comfort. When driving over speed bumps or uneven roads, most vibrations are effectively filtered out, ensuring rear passengers don't feel too bumpy. However, during high-speed cornering, the body lean becomes noticeable; after all, it’s a family SUV, not designed for aggressive driving.

The fuel consumption performance meets expectations. We tested 50km on crowded city roads and highways, and the combined fuel consumption was around 7.2L/100km. For a vehicle weighing 1.4 tons, this result is considered average. Noise control is well-done; at speeds below 80 km/h, wind and tire noise are not very noticeable. At higher speeds, wind noise slightly increases but does not affect in-cabin conversations. The seats provide excellent support and cushioning, so extended drives won't feel tiring.

Overall, the core advantage of the 2025 Corolla Cross 1.8 V lies in its balance. It comes standard with 7 safety airbags, ACC adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and other safety features. Its space is sufficient to meet family needs, and its power and fuel consumption are at an upper-medium level among cars of the same class. Compared to the similarly priced Honda HR-V 1.5 V, the 1.8 V offers richer features, especially in terms of safety, while being approximately RM5,000 less expensive, making it more cost-effective.

This car is suitable for families that value practicality and reliability. It is well-suited for daily commutes and weekend family outings. If you don’t require the low fuel consumption of a hybrid model but want balanced features and space, the 1.8 V would be a great choice. It has no obvious shortcomings and is a reliable family SUV.