What is the B on the Toyota Corolla Cross?
The B on the Toyota Corolla Cross is a driving gear that increases engine braking and regenerative braking, primarily used in hybrid models to slow the car and recharge the battery during downhill or steady descents.
What B mode does
When you select B, the vehicle uses stronger engine braking and the hybrid system’s regenerative braking to decelerate the car. This is designed to provide more controlled deceleration without relying as heavily on the traditional brakes, and to recharge the hybrid battery during driving.
- Increases regenerative braking, converting more kinetic energy into electrical energy to recharge the battery.
- Provides stronger deceleration than the standard Drive (D) mode without pressing the brake pedal.
- Helps stabilize the car on long or steep descents by maintaining consistent deceleration.
- Can feel different from normal driving and may slightly reduce acceleration response when starting from a stop.
In practice, B mode is most beneficial on downhill sections or extended descents where sustained braking would otherwise heat the brakes and wear components. For city driving or frequent stop-and-go, D mode is typically more comfortable and efficient.
How to use B mode
Engaging B mode is a straightforward shift in the transmission control. The exact procedure can vary by market and trim, so always refer to your owner's manual for the precise steps on your car. In most configurations:
- While driving in Drive (D), shift the gear lever to the B position to engage engine braking and increased regenerative braking.
- To resume normal driving, shift the lever back from B to D (or to the standard Drive position used in your model).
Note that while in B, acceleration may feel slower and the deceleration will be stronger. Use B primarily on long downhill stretches or when you want to maximize battery charging through regen, and switch back to D for typical city or highway driving.
Availability and market notes
B mode is typically associated with hybrid variants of the Corolla Cross. In most regions, it is available on Corolla Cross Hybrid models and may not appear on gasoline-only versions. Availability can vary by market and trim, so verify with your dealer or consult the vehicle’s manual for your specific configuration.
Summary
The B gear on the Toyota Corolla Cross is a hybrid-specific setting that increases engine and regenerative braking to decelerate the vehicle and recharge the battery during descents. It is most useful on long hills or steep grades and is generally less suited to tight urban driving. Always check your exact model’s manual to confirm whether B mode is present and how to operate it in your region.
