Toyota has expanded its Corolla Cross model family to include a hybrid version expected at 37 mpg.

The Corolla Cross Hybrid has what Toyota calls its fifth-generation hybrid system, here in the form of all-wheel drive. In the Corolla Cross Hybrid, it delivers 194 hp, which equates to a 0-60 mph time of 8.0 seconds, more than a second better than the 169 hp non-hybrid Corolla Cross models.

Toyota hasn’t specified exactly how the hybrid system is presented here, but it uses the same term “electronic all-wheel drive” it has with the Highlander Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid to distinguish systems with an additional rear-wheel drive motor. . As such, the underpowered motor acts as an on-road component of the hybrid system, helping to make launches safer, assisting with traction when needed, and helping to recover energy during deceleration and braking.

The Corolla Cross Hybrid’s 37-mpg combined EPA rating is not an official figure and, at this point, only a manufacturer’s estimate. If so, that would be a significant boost over the non-hybrid Corolla Cross’ combined 32mpg, but that’s not particularly impressive next to the combined 40mpg rating of the larger RAV4 Hybrid AWD or the 52 mpg rating from the Corolla hybrid sedan, or the 49 mpg rating from the Prius AWD.

Toyota also confirmed plans to build the 2023 Corolla Cross hybrid, along with other Corolla Cross models originally launched last year, at a joint plant with Mazda in Alabama. Toyota pointed out that in the US it now also covers its hybrid batteries for 10 years or 150,000 miles, under a transferable warranty to subsequent owners.

The Corolla Cross Hybrid will be offered in all five trim levels: LE, XLE, S, SE or XSE. Two-tone paint is available, and there’s also a choice of five colors, with two different interior colors to choose from for most trim levels. Infotainment systems are new for the Corolla Cross Hybrid and the rest of the Corolla Cross lineup, and they include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as USB-C ports and Wi-Fi hotspot functionality.

Along with sportier S, SE and XSE all new for the Hybrid, this includes all existing levels except the base L, which currently starts at $23,410 for 2022. The LE starts at $25,760 for 2022, so with some premium for the hybrid system and a little more markup in the name of inflation, will the base Corolla Cross Hybrid cross the line under $30,000? Expect to see this response over the summer.