The Corolla Cross Hybrid is a low-priced, high-value crossover SUV, a vehicle type American consumers just can’t seem to get enough of. In little more than a year on the market, it has already become a giant hit. The addition of a hybrid-powered version tops the model line with a model that isn’t just efficient — it’s engaging. More horsepower and a sport-tuned suspension will do that.

The 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid delivers better acceleration than the conventional Corolla Cross, and Toyota emphasizes that added sportiness in the way it decks it out. The Corolla Cross Hybrid is available as an S, SE, or XSE, the brand’s sport-oriented grades. In addition to its taut suspension, even the base S features LED headlamps, 17-inch alloy wheels, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and smart key access. The SE adds privacy glass, roof rails, paddle shifters, blind spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert. The XSE is the sportiest and most luxurious Corolla Cross Hybrid with 18-inch alloy wheels, premium LED lighting front and rear, leatherette seat coverings, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Host Jack Nerad had the chance to drive several Corolla Cross Hybrid variants at a recent driving event in Southern California, and he’ll have a full report.

Also in the road test segment, guest host Matt DeLorenzo was behind the wheel of the battery-electric Volkswagen ID.4. The ID.4 brings European driving dynamics to the BEV crossover segment, and Matt DeLorenzo, author of How to Buy an Affordable Electric Car, will share his thoughts.

In the news, Tesla has cut the prices on some of its models for the sixth time this year. We’ll tell you what’s behind these unusual price changes and give you our comments coming up later in this segment.

Also in the news this week, the other shoe dropped on federal electric-vehicle tax credits, and there are big winners and big losers. A number of well-known brands are crying this week. We’ll give you the details plus our commentary on the multi-billion dollar decision a little later.

On new-car front, Buick revealed the 2024 Envista, a vehicle it claims, offers the cargo space and utility of an SUV, packaged in the sleek proportions typically found in a sedan. Not only that, but it’s darn good-looking. We’ll give you the details and our reactions coming up.

We have a terrific guest for you this week. Ted West is a veteran auto journalist and author of one of the best motor racing novels ever, a book called Closing Speed. He is also one of the reasons Host Jack Nerad got into the business of reviewing cars in the first place. We will bring you their conversation and much more in this episode of America on the Road.