The Toyota Corolla Cross takes everything that is loved about the Corolla sedan, and adds extra ride height and SUV practicality. It's affordable, fuel efficient, and carries Toyota's legendary reputation for reliability. А looming question for those looking to buy it, is whether this compact crossover has any towing credentials. After all, not everyone needs a full-size truck or SUV just to pull a light trailer or a few bikes.
Here's the good news: Yes, the Toyota Corolla Cross can tow. However,
you may need to readjust your expectations. This isn't an expedition vehicle that can haul a camper across the Rockies. While towing is definitely possible, there are strict limitations how much you can carry, so it's important to do your homework before jumping into your Corolla Cross for your next adventure.
You're not alone if you're considering using your Corolla Cross for some light-duty towing, as crossovers have become incredibly popular for their balance of fuel-efficiency and practicality. But, before you hitch up, knowing tricks like the 80% rule and knowing the limits of your vehicle are a necessity for towing safe and smart.
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Towing Limits And Capabilities Of The Corolla Cross
All Toyota Corolla Cross models come with a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds, a modest but usable figure for light loads. That means it could pull things like a pair of dirt bikes, a lightweight camping trailer, jet skis, or even a small boat. It's not going to compete with its more grown-up siblings like the RAV4 or Highlander, but it's just enough for weekend adventures or DIYers.
Whilst the Corolla Cross should have no issues when towing within the 1,500 pound limit, it's important not to get carried away. It's important to note that if you tow over capacity, even a few hundred pounds over the limit, it can cause excess strain on the drivetrain, suspension, and brakes. After all, towing isn't just about having the pulling power, it's also about how much control you have while doing it.
Crossovers, like the Corolla Cross, don't have the extra strength of reinforced frames found on trucks and body-on-frame SUVs, so extra caution is needed. Drivers who tow regularly stress the importance of having the right tools, such as an approved hitch and trailer wiring kit. It's also important to consider the implications of towing on hybrid models and the effect it'll have on battery life and degradation.
What To Know Before Towing With A Corolla Cross
If you really want tow with your Corolla Cross, you should be clued up on all the towing safety tips to keep yourself, and your car, in good shape, and avoid any unnecessary roadside rescues. Buying a good hitch is a great first step. A Class I hitch that can handle the Corolla Cross's weight, and a wiring harness that is suitable for the brake lights and turn signals. Going the extra mile when it comes to gear that ensures your safety is always worth it.
It's also important to remember how towing will alter the way you Corolla Cross drives. You'll definitely feel the extra weight, especially under acceleration or when going up and down hills. Another thing to consider it the effect the extra weight will have on fuel efficiency. The EPA estimates that during normal driving, the Corolla Cross gets up to 32 MPG in combined driving, which goes up to 42 MPG with the Hybrid. While there are no official figures, Corolla Cross drivers say these numbers will drop fast when towing.
Lastly, always double-check your cargo, tongue weight, and trailer brakes before you depart. If you are planning on towing close to the limit of 1,500 pounds, make sure you have trailer brakes. The Corolla Cross may not be able to replace a Tundra when it comes to raw pulling power, but it can do a solid job at light-duty towing if you do it right.
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Read the original article on SlashGear.
