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Toyota Corolla Cross vs Kia Niro comparison

Compare performance (180 HP vs 138 HP), boot space and price (31,700 £ vs 29,100 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Toyota Corolla Cross or Kia Niro?

Toyota Corolla Cross vs Kia Niro: Key differences

Toyota Corolla Cross

4.8 (7 Reviews)
rate
  • visibly more power
  • clearly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • very slightly lighter
  • very slightly more trunk space
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Kia Niro

4.5 (3 Reviews)
rate
  • very slightly cheaper
  • very slightly more efficient
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

Corolla Cross

A Clash of Compact SUVs: Kia Niro vs. Toyota Corolla Cross

When it comes to selecting a small SUV that delivers fuel efficiency, practicality, and innovative features, the Kia Niro and Toyota Corolla Cross are two top contenders. Both vehicles offer unique strengths that appeal to a diverse range of drivers. From powertrain options to interior space, this comparison delves into the core aspects of these two popular models for the 2024 and 2025 model years.

Niro

Powertrain and Performance

For those considering eco-friendly driving, the Kia Niro shines with its dual offerings of a Full Hybrid and a Plug-in Hybrid engine. The Full Hybrid Niro offers a notable 129 HP, whereas the Plug-in Hybrid boosts the performance to 171 HP. The electric range for the Niro's Plug-in Hybrid model provides up to 65 km, thanks to its 11.1 kWh battery capacity. The Niro’s engines are paired with a Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission, designed to optimize energy and enhance driving smoothness.

In contrast, the Toyota Corolla Cross offers a Full Hybrid engine with two power outputs: 140 HP and an impressive 197 HP. The Corolla Cross achieves efficient fuel consumption, with figures around 5.1 to 5.3 L/100km, and it employs a CVT transmission that ensures seamless driving. Notably, the Corolla Cross comes with an option for either Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive, making it a versatile choice for diverse driving conditions.

Corolla Cross

Dimension and Capacity

While both the Kia Niro and Toyota Corolla Cross are classified as compact SUVs, there are differences in their dimensions. The Kia Niro measures 4420 mm in length, 1825 mm in width, and 1545 mm in height. In comparison, the Corolla Cross is slightly longer and taller, with dimensions of 4460 mm in length, 1825 mm in width, and 1620 mm in height.

Storage and passenger capacity are critical factors for SUV buyers. The Kia Niro offers a trunk capacity of up to 451 liters, which reduces slightly for the Plug-in Hybrid variant. Meanwhile, the Toyota Corolla Cross provides a trunk capacity ranging from 414 to 425 liters, depending on the model configuration.

Niro

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

A key draw of both vehicles is their commitment to the environment through reduced emissions and improved fuel efficiency. The Kia Niro’s Plug-in Hybrid model stands out with a fuel consumption as low as 0.8 L/100km and impressively low CO2 emissions of 19 g/km. Its Full Hybrid sibling also offers a commendable figure of 4.4 L/100km with CO2 emissions around 100 g/km.

Similarly, the Toyota Corolla Cross displays strong environmental consciousness with CO2 emissions ranging from 114 to 121 g/km. The Corolla Cross’s fuel consumption sits at just 5.1 to 5.3 L/100km, further emphasizing its efficiency credentials.

Corolla Cross

Trim and Comfort

Both the Kia Niro and Toyota Corolla Cross offer the comfort and convenience that modern drivers expect. Each model comfortably seats five passengers and provides a suite of technology-focused features. These include state-of-the-art infotainment systems and advanced driver-assistance systems aimed at enhancing safety and comfort on the road.

Niro

Final Verdict

Choosing between the Kia Niro and the Toyota Corolla Cross largely depends on individual preferences regarding performance, eco-friendliness, and specific feature requirements. The Kia Niro appeals to those prioritizing hybrid innovation and electric range, especially with its Plug-in Hybrid model. On the other hand, the Toyota Corolla Cross offers versatile drivetrain options and dynamic performance that might attract drivers with varying road conditions and lifestyle needs. Whichever model a driver selects, both the Niro and Corolla Cross promise to deliver on quality, efficiency, and the evolving demands of modern automotive consumers.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Corolla Cross

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Kia Niro is very slightly cheaper – starting at 29,100 £ , while the Toyota Corolla Cross costs 31,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 2,571 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Kia Niro uses 4.5 L/100km and is very slightly more efficient than the Toyota Corolla Cross with 4.9 L/100km. The difference is about 0.4 L/100km.

Niro

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Toyota Corolla Cross offers visibly more power – delivering 180 HP compared to 138 HP. That’s roughly 42 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Toyota Corolla Cross is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 7.6 s, while the Kia Niro takes 11.1 s. That’s about 3.5 s quicker.

Corolla Cross

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Toyota Corolla Cross is very slightly lighter – 1,380 kg compared to 1,474 kg. The difference is around 94 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Toyota Corolla Cross offers very slightly more boot space – 473 L compared to 451 L. That’s a difference of about 22 L.

When it comes to payload, the Toyota Corolla Cross carries slightly more – 560 kg compared to 466 kg. That’s a difference of about 94 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Toyota Corolla Cross holds a decisive overall lead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £31,700
Corolla Cross

Toyota Corolla Cross

  • Engine Type Full Hybrid
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 140 - 180 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 4.9 - 5.3 L/100km
Toyota Corolla Cross
Kia Niro

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

Toyota Corolla Cross

The Toyota Corolla Cross is a compact crossover that blends the practicality and reliability Toyota is known for with a comfortable, easygoing driving experience. It offers a roomy interior and sensible features that make it a strong choice for daily commuting and family outings.

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Kia Niro

The Kia Niro is a practical crossover that blends economy and everyday versatility without sacrificing comfort. With a roomy, well-laid-out cabin and calm, composed handling, it’s an easy-to-live-with choice for commuters and families.

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Toyota Corolla Cross
Kia Niro

Costs and Consumption

Price
31,700 - 41,900 £
Price
29,100 - 33,800 £
Consumption L/100km
4.9 - 5.3 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
4.5 - 4.9 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
112 - 120 g/km
co2
102 - 111 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,380 - 1,500 kg
Curb weight
1,474 kg
Trunk capacity
380 - 473 L
Trunk capacity
451 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,825 mm
Width
1,825 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
515 - 560 kg
Payload
466 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Full Hybrid
Engine Type
Full Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
CVT
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
140 - 180 HP
Power HP
138 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 10 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
11.1 - 11.4 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
-
Torque
265 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
103 - 132 kW
Power kW
102 kW
Engine capacity
1,798 - 1,987 cm3
Engine capacity
1,580 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, D
CO2 Efficiency Class
C
Brand
Toyota
Brand
Kia
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.