2022 Toyota Corolla Cross vs 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ

The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross presented a conservative design approach, pulling back from the daring styles Toyota had recently embraced. Its snub nose was reminiscent of the Toyota Tundra, and it featured the obligatory tall ride height and plastic fender flares typical of SUVs. However, the overall look was restrained, seemingly to ensure it didn't overshadow its larger sibling, the RAV4. The Corolla Cross was notably compact, being 5.3 inches shorter than the RAV4, yet larger than the Toyota C-HR, offering more interior space due to its conventional shape. Subtle styling details included scalloping around the rear door handles and mirrors, and hidden Corolla Cross logos throughout the vehicle. Wheel options varied from 17-inch steel on the base model to 18-inch alloy wheels with LED lights on the XLE. Inside, the Corolla Cross mirrored the Corolla sedan and hatchback, with oversized door handles akin to the RAV4. Material quality was perceived as below that of the Corolla sedan and hatch, with the base L model feeling basic, while the XLE offered SofTex leatherette upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ was a testament to Cadillac's flair for exterior styling, boasting a commanding street presence. Although classified as an SUV, its long hood and low ground clearance gave it the appearance of a sleek sedan, drawing inspiration from the classic Seville. The LYRIQ featured a long wheelbase, short tail, and wide track, with vertical light bars incorporating nine LED headlights that performed a light show upon unlocking. The grille, adorned with lighting effects, varied in design across trims, with the Sport trim showcasing a dark triangular motif. The LYRIQ's design was further enhanced by thin, deployable door handles and wraparound taillights that accentuated its shoulder line. Inside, Cadillac paid meticulous attention to detail, with leather-wrapped seats, polished controls, and a unique steering wheel design. The interior was marked by a sweeping 33-inch OLED display, although the floating center console offered limited functionality. Despite some design missteps, the LYRIQ's interior was a showcase of Cadillac's luxury aspirations.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross was equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 169 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This CVT featured an actual first gear for improved acceleration, though it transitioned abruptly to normal CVT operation. While the Corolla Cross managed highway speeds adequately, the engine worked hard, resulting in noticeable droning. The optional AWD system, similar to that in the Toyota Camry, could send up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels, though body roll was evident during cornering. With 8.2 inches of ground clearance, the Corolla Cross wasn't designed for off-roading, and its 1,500-pound towing capacity was modest.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ, despite its sporty exterior, excelled in long-distance comfort rather than sportiness. It featured dual motors producing 500 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque for AWD, with a standard single rear motor offering 340 hp and 325 lb-ft. Both setups used a 102-kilowatt-hour battery, with Cadillac claiming a range of 314 miles for RWD and 307 miles for AWD. However, real-world testing showed a range closer to 260 miles. Charging performance varied, with home charging benefiting from the optional 19.2-kW Level 2 charger. The LYRIQ's handling was hindered by its 5,800-pound weight, resulting in significant understeer and uninspiring steering feel. While braking was strong, the LYRIQ lacked handling-enhancing features found in other Cadillac models.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross offered more passenger and cargo space than the Corolla hatchback, with increased rear legroom and headroom. It featured standard rear climate-control vents and dual-zone automatic climate control on XLE models. Cargo space was competitive, with 26.5 cubic feet available with FWD and 66.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. However, the interior was not particularly comfortable, with hard and unsupportive seats and limited storage spaces.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ faced challenges in build quality and functionality. Misaligned rear fenders, a loose charging port, and a problematic pull-out tray were noted issues. The glovebox was difficult to access while driving, and the floating console offered limited space. Despite these drawbacks, the LYRIQ provided generous headroom and legroom, though cargo space was limited to 28 cubic feet behind the seats and 60.8 cubic feet when folded.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen on base models, with an 8-inch screen on LE and XLE models. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other connectivity features were standard, while a nine-speaker JBL audio system was optional. The infotainment system was user-friendly but lacked sophistication, with slow boot-up times and basic graphics. USB ports and wireless charging were available, though the charging pad had size limitations.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ boasted a 33-inch OLED screen with three sections, offering touch-enabled controls and high-quality graphics. The infotainment system included Google Maps and Assistant, with accurate navigation features. Super Cruise, Cadillac's hands-free driving system, was a standout feature, complemented by a 19-speaker AKG stereo. The system's intuitive design and functionality were highlights of the LYRIQ's technology offerings.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 with features like forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and park assist.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ also lacked crash-test ratings but offered standard safety features such as forward automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system.