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Despite the brand's solid reputation, consumers report faults with the automatic transmission and suspension of the Toyota Corolla SUV model
Since its launch in Brazil in 2021, the Toyota Corolla Cross has stood out in the medium SUV market. With production in Sorocaba (SP), the model arrived to compete directly with the Jeep Compass, segment leader since 2016. Leveraging the Corolla sedan's TNGA platform, the Toyota Corolla Cross offers consumers the recognized reliability and robustness of the Japanese brand. However, some owners have reported problems that compromise the experience with the vehicle, according to the Auto Esporte website.
SUV performance and construction
The Toyota Corolla Cross uses the TNGA platform, sharing several components with the Corolla sedan, including engines and driving assistance technologies. Available with aspirated flex engines, the SUV has a 2.0 engine with up to 175 hp and automatic transmission. CVT that simulates ten gears. In hybrid versions, the combination consists of a 1.8 engine and an electric drive, generating a combined 122 hp.
In April 2024, the model underwent an update, gaining a redesigned look, improvements to the finishing and new equipment, such as the electric opening of the trunk lid in top-of-the-line versions.
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Main consumer complaints for the SUV
Despite praise for its harmonious design, good interior space and driving dynamics, the Toyota Corolla Cross has received criticism related to mechanical and finishing problems. Owners' main complaints include suspension noises and automatic transmission malfunctions.
Reports of abnormal noises in the suspension are common among Corolla Cross owners. Alexandre, from Vitória da Conquista (BA), reported on the Reclame Aqui website that his vehicle, purchased in September 2023, started showing noises in the front right suspension after the first 5.000 km.
“This noise appears when I go over speed bumps and streets with bad asphalt. I took the car to the dealership, but they didn't find any problems and said the noise was a characteristic of the vehicle. I did several internet searches and I discovered that this complaint is recurrent among Corolla Cross and Corolla sedan owners,” said Alexandre.
Paulo Vianna, automotive mechanic, explains that it is necessary to investigate the origin of these noises. “Reports are not enough to make a correct diagnosis. It is necessary to check the suspension for defective components or loose parts, which is crucial for the safety of the vehicle.”
Faults in the SUV's automatic transmission
Another problem reported by Toyota Corolla Cross owners is the malfunction of the automatic transmission. Bruno, from São Paulo (SP), complained that his vehicle, with only 1.000 km driven, there were jerks when changing from first to second gear.
“The exchange is not smooth, it feels like a cart”, reported Bruno. Toyota responded that the problem is not a product or assembly failure, but a vehicle characteristic, and reprogrammed the system to improve performance.
Vianna notes that problems with automatic transmission are worrying, especially in new vehicles. “Toyota is known for using robust gearboxes. These reports are atypical and should be investigated carefully.”
Toyota's response
Toyota responded to the complaints through its press office, highlighting that the technical support area diagnoses and continuously monitors the requests received. The company is available to advise on the correct functioning of components, maintenance or necessary repairs.
“Toyota’s technical support area diagnoses and continuously monitors the requests received and advises on the correct functioning of the component, maintenance or repair if necessary. Toyota is always available to serve its customers”, says the automaker’s official note.
I find the C.Cross suspension very hard because of the 225/50 R18 Tires, the Car would undoubtedly be much softer with more Rubber Meat in 225/60 R18 with the same Tire Calibration Level /50, 33/32 Lbs, Larger Tire with the same internal Tire pressure, Suffering the same Pressure of the entire Weight of the car, having more meat at the Tire Height becomes Softer to Drive.
You could also choose: 235/55 or /60 R18, it would be even softer.
TOYOTA SHOULD OFFER CARS WITH A WIDE VARIETY OF ELEGANT COLOR OPTIONS, LIKE “JAGUAR GREEN, AUDI, BMW, (PORTUGAL WINE COLOR, FERRARI RED, etc.).
It's hard to imagine that BRAZILIANS HAVE TO SWALLOW DOWN THEIR THROATS ONLY THE COLORS THEY OFFER US, WHICH ARE THE BASIC COLOR OF ALL AUTOMAKERS: BLACK, SILVER, GRAY, PEARL WHITE, NATURAL WHITE.