Best of the rest
Toyota is on an all-out hybrid model assault as the world’s biggest car company attempts to replace its passenger car fleet diesel-powered models with petrol-electric hybrids. The latest model from the brand is the Corolla Cross, which is built in Durban and is available with both petrol and petrol-electric power plants.
For today’s comparison, we will be using both the 1.8-litre XR petrol and 1.8-litre XR Hybrid models to eliminate any specification advantage as we determine which is better, petrol or hybrid.
Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 XR | Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid XR | |
Engine | 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder, petrol | 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder, petrol-electric hybrid |
Power/Torque | 103kW/ 172Nm | 142Nm(163Nm+e) |
Transmission Type | CVT | CVT |
Driven wheels | Front | Front |
Boot space | 440-litres | 440-litres |
Fuel Consumption | 6.8 L/100 km | 4.3 L/100 km |
Kerb weight | 1 325kg | 1 385kg |
Price | R438 200 | R461 700 |
The petrol
Powering the petrol model is a 1.8-litre naturally aspirated engine with 103kW and 172Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a CVT gearbox that sends power to the front wheels, allowing for reasonable claimed fuel returns of 6.8 L/100km.
The hybrid
The Corolla Cross Hybrid features a 1.8-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that is paired with an electric motor. The powertrain produces a combined power and torque figure of 90kW and 163Nm. The dual-motor power is sent through a CVT gearbox allowing for a claimed fuel consumption figure of 4.3 L/100km.
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Analysis
Looking at the numbers, the hybrid model appears to offer the best fuel consumption figure and but the lighter and more powerful petrol model is the stronger performer.
Verdict
Despite the added weight and increased price, it would appear that the hybrid model is the winner, offering better fuel consumption and a better overall driving experience versus the petrol version, granting it the victory.
