Crossovers, a sub-set of SUVs, are among the most sought-after vehicle shapes in South Africa.
They offer similar levels of practicality as sedans and much the same capabilities of low-end SUVs, while being similarly priced to certain hatchbacks – a veritable trifecta in the automotive world.
With sky-high fuel prices still rocking the nation, a question on every crossover buyer’s mind is undoubtedly something along the lines of: “Which one will see me go to the petrol station the least?”
The answer, however, isn’t as straightforward as it might seem.
While premium crossovers like the BMW X1 and Lexus UX claim to have fuel spend averages of as low as 1.1l/100km; with a barrier to entry of R910,900, they are unlikely to be considered by someone who’s worried about petrol costs.
As such, the most efficient crossover in the country that the average consumer can actually afford is none other than the Toyota Corolla Cross HEV XS which sells for R494,400.
What you get
As you might have guessed, the HEV in this particular Corolla Cross’s name stands for hybrid-electric vehicle, alluding that the Toyota achieves its 4.3l/100km claimed average through electrical assistance.
The powertrain mates a 1.8-litre petrol engine with a small electric motor to generate a dependable 90kW of power, which is channeled exclusively to the front axle through a continuously variable transmission.
The end result is that the Corolla Cross is a rather frugal set of wheels, as it can travel up to 837km between top-ups of its 36-litre tank.
Another benefit is that the small fuel cell leads to relatively inexpensive stops at the filling station, with a full refill costing between R795 and R804 at current inland rates, depending on whether you go for petrol 93 or 95.
Coincidentally, the Corolla Cross was recently also updated with a fresh design and spec sheet, accompanied by a small bump in price, giving buyers even more value for money than before.
The crossover now sports a flashy honeycomb-pattern grille topped with a textured chrome strip running across on the nose for added flair.
The LED head- and taillights boast a new look, too, and it rolls around on an updated selection of alloy wheels measuring 17 inches in diametre in the case of the XS trim.
Inside, the Toyota is equipped with amenities such as a multifunction steering wheel wrapped in leather, partial leather seating, a 7-inch driver’s display, dual-zone climate control, and a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Also included are smart entry door handles with push-button start, rain-sensing wipers, all-round parking sensors, cruise control, a reverse camera, hill-assist control, and five airbags.
Each purchase of the Corolla Cross HEV is completed by a 3-year/100,000km warranty, a 6-services/90,000km service plan, and an 8-year/195,000km hybrid battery warranty.
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