I have the XLE trim FWD, and prior this car I drove 2021 Corolla Hybrid LE. I can tell you that the Corolla hybrid was one incredible vehicle. It gave me gas millage from 50 to 75MPG, and it was very comfortable, as well. It was not looking/feeling cheap at all. If you have owned a BMW, Lexus, MB or Audi, you probably you would think that Corolla Hybrid is a cheap vehicle, but it had everything one contemporary car could ask for.
My new Corolla Cross XLE (FWD) is excellent choice for a person who want decent luxury in a nice package. It looks almost the same like Corolla Hybrid LE (inside), and it very versatile vehicle. It is quiet, comfortable and relaxing to drive - just finish a trip from Charlotte, NC to Myrtle Beach, SC and passing 400 miles round trip was not tiresome at all. I changed my Corolla Hybrid LE for Corolla Cross XLE just because I needed a little bit extra room. Gas millage of the Cross is a nice surprise, as well. I managed to get 38-39 MPG in my round trip to Myrtle Beach, SC, and it made me extremely happy owning this vehicle. Fuel economy includes AC working 100% of the time. CVT transmission of this vehicle is a nice addition to it. You have to drive easy for first 1000 miles, and car will pay you big time later on, providing nice ride. If you want better gas millage, wait for the Corolla Cross Hybrid, and I believe you will not be disappointed because Toyota will offer its 5 generation hybrid system in this car (Europe will get it, so USA will probably get the same drive train). The back seat is a little bit tight, but it is better than Mazda CX30 where I could not seat behind myself, after I adjusted front seat for my driving position.