Toyota expands Corolla Cross offering

Following the addition of the GR Sport to the Corolla range in 2022, the hybrid model has now also been given the GR-S treatment. The hybrid model remains in strong demand, with consumers recognising the benefits of Toyota’s acclaimed hybrid system which includes refinement, smooth acceleration, fuel economy and near silent EV mode operation.

The GR-S package adds sharpened aesthetics, while under skin updates include improvements to the driving dynamics.

Exterior updates comprise a bespoke exterior package that incorporates a revised front grille design finished in gloss black, a gloss black lower apron with signature GR mesh, vertical air ducts which incorporate compact fog lamp units, a strong horizontal cross bar and large Toyota insignia. Black exterior mirrors are paired with a black roof and black roof rails to craft a sporty bi-tone design. The rear is finished off with a black roof spoiler, black tailgate and blacked out rear diffuser as well as a GR badge affixed to the rear. Exterior colours match the GR brand colours and include Arizona Red Bi-Tone, Chromium Silver Bi-Tone and Glacier White Bi-Tone.

Inside story

Inside the elegant simplicity and superb ergonomics of the Corolla Cross cabin have been retained, along with the addition of some GR-inspired flair. The interior of GR-S models utilises stylish black leather trim throughout with GR embossing on the front headrest, red contrasting stitching and red perforation as well as a red accent stripe on the instrument panel along with piano black surface detailing. A chunky three-spoke steering wheel with red stitching and piano black inserts rounds off the interior.

Sportier ride and handling

Under the skin changes include sportier shock absorbers and revised coil springs and a new brushless-motor power steering module that ensures more responsive handling and sportier steering wheel feedback. Unique 18-inch black alloy wheels fitted with 225/50R18 tyres round off the sportier handling package.

Additional specification and features

Using the Xr grade as a base, standard specification includes keyless entry, power adjustable mirrors, one-touch power windows, LED lighting, cruise control, TFT Multi-Information Display, dual-zone climate control, reverse camera, park distance control, rain-sensing wipers, LED interior illumination and a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The convenience specification on Xi and Xs models has also been increased in line with customer feedback. Xi models receive an upgrade to LED headlamps, a touchscreen eight-inch display audio system with six-speakers, reverse camera, revised speedometer design and full 4.2-inch TFT Multi-Information Display as well as a front armrest with cup holder functionality. Hybrid models feature blue headlamp inserts that convey their hybrid credentials.

Safety and security

The Corolla Cross GR-S is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense which includes a full suite of active safety aids including adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane trace assist and pre-collision system. These are supplemented by ABS, VSC, EBD, Hill Assist Control and Brake Assist systems as well as passive safety aids such as Isofix and a full array of airbags.

Model range and pricing

All Corolla Cross models are sold with a six-services/90 000km service plan and three-year/100 000km warranty.

Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi CVT                               R381 200

Corolla Cross 1.8 XS CVT                              R414 300

Corolla Cross 1.8 XR CVT                              R451 300

Corolla Cross 1.8 XS HEV                              R442 800

Corolla Cross 1.8 XR HEV                              R480 200

Corolla Cross 1.8 CVT GR-S                          R466 800

Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV GR-S                          R495 200

Browse the new Corolla Cross Here.